I have but one simple stupid question: what tools are needed (or will make life a hell of a lot easier) to change the torsion bars, leafs springs, and shocks on an '86 4Runner? I'm really mechanically inclined but I do not have any experience doing this sort of thing and I'd rather get advice from those who have messed up before me.

P.S. And before you ask no I am not adding a lift kit I'm just swapping out worn parts with stock replacement to get a better ride (Bilsteins all around, OME torsion bars set to 1/4" over stock, and NWOR heavy duty leafs)

 

Just a metric socket set, plus a crescent wrench for the T bar lock nuts. You may need duplicate sockets or the same sized wrench for the leaf bolts.

Jack stands, jack, torque wrench....

I think that's it?

I've adjusted T bars and removed shocks, but not take off leafs.

 

you need 2 wrenches and a socket for the torsion bars, 22mm i believe. you need two wrenches to hold the nut and jam nut on top while using the socket to adjust from the bottom. i haven't actually removed torsion bars before so not sure what else is needed. for the leaf springs you don't need anything special except for 2 hd c-clamps. you have to clamp the spring pack together when removing and installing the center aligning bolt. 2 sets of jack stands and a floor jack make it easier and safer as well. 1 set on the frame rails and 1 set for the axle. also only do 1 side at a time for the leafs, its a lot more stable to keep one side tied together at all times. there are some big bolts back there that probably haven't been touched ever so you'll want some pb blaster, a big breaker bar and a 1/2 impact wrench and sockets. remember what suspension is designed to do so be careful when working around springs and such. if you don't know what your doing get a chiltons and do some research. safety first! good luck.

 

TORQUE WRENCH

I like to know that everything is torqued properly on anything, but definitely on suspension

 

Another stupider question: Philbert said something about a crescent wrench, WTF is that?

 

"adjustable wrench"
but good luck, and its nice to see somone else from NJ

 

Oh I didn't know that was called a crescent wrench

 

lol, i grew up calling it an adjustable wrench

 

I don't have any 22mm wrenches so I had to use that sucker....ugh!