Hello all

I drive a 98 Tacoma 4x4 TRD 5-speed V6. A mechanic recently recommend that I get new front shocks: he said it looks like they are leaking (they are not the original TRD bilsteins). I took it to another mechanic and he said new front shocks AND coil springs: he said the front end is sagging excessively. I'll admit the front end is lower than the back, but I also know that a slight difference is normal.

questions:

First, how can I tell for myself if I just need new shocks, or if I need springs as well?

Second, for front shocks I'm going to go with bilstein, probably 4600s. What kind of springs should I get to go with those? I don't drive often (I live and work in the same place), but when I do there is usually a little bit of dirt and washboard involved, and some sand and big rocks from time to time (I live in a very remote place). I don't 4x4 for the sake of it, but I usually cross some difficult terrain to get to the places I want to go. I'm not looking for a lift, but if I can get a setup that will correct the current sag, that would be nice. Some say bilsteins shocks with OME coils is a good setup, others say they are totally incompatible. Does bilstein make coil springs for light trucks? I can't seem to find them on the internet...

Third: is it common to buy parts yourself then bring them to a mechanic to have them do the work? Online I can get bilsteins for the price the mechanic quoted for monroe or Gabriel. Seems crazy!

Last, I was thinking of replacing the rear shocks as well. Considering Gabriel Max Control--good reviews and a decent price. However, I've read on other forums that you have to be careful about having compatible rear and front shocks, or else your suspension will be "unbalanced". Does that sound like something worth considering?

Thanks for reading!

 

First some places don`t mind installing parts you bring Good idea to check first.

Someplace`s charge more for people who bring parts really hard to tell.

It is much cheaper labor wise to just swap the coil spring and shock/strut assembly then just change the shock/ struts .

Shops are in business to make money hence the price differences.

Can you see any fluid leaking around the area in question??

How may miles on your Tacoma??

Yes you should have shocks that are matched to a degree or you can have some very interesting handling

I must say I like my Monroe Sensatracs