On-Road Handling Advice for 2005 SR5 4Runner (V8/AWD)
 

I just purchased a 2005 SR5. I was unable to find a leftover Sport so decided I would do without the X-Reas and go for the less expensive SR5. I love the truck but I am bummed I could not get the X-Reas system (my other car is a sports car so I am used to the handling).

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to improve ON - road handling? I was thinking I would replace the shocks with Bilsteins (assuming they are even available) but I am not sure that will be enough. The local dealer's service station says they do not offer a custom install of an X-Reas system and that it can only be done at the factory (not sure if that is true).
Is there an after market leveling-system available?

My ideal goal is to make the suspension better than the X-Reas system without spending a fortune (less than $1,000 ideally). I do not mind a stiff ride, I just want to be able to feel more connected to the ground, especially on twisty highways.

Any advice would be very much appreciated!

I have a 3rd gen w/ Bilsteins and Addco swaybars. I also have a spacer lift w/ the stock springs. I feel that my current setup performs much better than stock even with the lift. My springs are pretty worn and would require an upgrade to get better performance.

I would definitely replace shocks and upgrade the factory swaybars. I don't know what's available for 4th gen though. There is another forum that has a ton of 4th gens. Here's a link: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/forumd....php?forumid=1

considered adding air bags to the rear for better support and control?

Do you have Bilstein and Addeco in addition to X-Reas or in lieu of?

Xreas is impossible to retrofit.
Possible options for you:
1. upgrade shocks (bilstiens, etc from above)
2. replace your sway bar bushings w/ polyurethane ones
3. replace springs- I think OME makes 'light' springs that dont really lift your truck but adds capacity (stiffer springs). Not sure about this as it may slightly lift your truck too- probably not desired for you- but check into it.

I highly recommend a call to Ben at sleeoffroad.com (1800# on the site). He can answer your q's and possibly add some suggestions.

Thanks for the input. Yes, ideally I would like to lower the truck. I don't think Bilstein makes shocks for this model so I have to explore an alternative with that too!

I would also recommend getting rid of the worthless tires from the factory. I have a pair of 20" rims for the summer and the improvement is noticable. I don't even have top of the line tires on them. The are a little wider and stiffer though. I noticed right away that some times with the factory tires they will sort of "float"(kind of loose feeling of being in contact with the road) and you have to correct with the steering wheel. Once I put the 20's on that went away. plus it corners alot better with thicker and stiffer tires.

a good set of tires will get you off to a good start. those factory tires have fairly flimsy sidewalls. you will notice better handling and cornering with a good set of tires.