I'm ripping my hair out. I've searched and searched and now i think i'm more confused than when i started (probably due to reading too many threads started by noobs like me....hahaha)

I have a 2004, extended cab, trd tacoma. I need new shocks BAD. I understand that the front is technically a strut because the shock is inside a coil spring. I want to keep the truck at stock height (or very close to stock). My truck is a daily driver, HOWEVER i do drive extensively on rough forest service roads and desert washboard to access hunting, fishing and climbing locations. I occasionally find myself negotiating big cobbles and ruts when the "road" dissapears. I don't go driving for the sole sake of 4-wheeling, i avoid it if i can, but if there is good hunting/climbing at the end of a 4wd low road i'll drive it numerous times. Again....i don't need/want a lift, i'm satisfied w/ the clearance, but want a shock that can put up with some abuse (washboard at 50mph anyone?)

Thus far i've narrowed it down to bilstein HD's. I read that many consider them "harsh", others seem to love them. Thoughts considering my application? It is a truck, so i'm not looking for buttery smooth......however i don't need whiplash either. It looks like i can do the rear shocks easy. I will likely have a shop do the fronts to avoid renting a spring compressor.

Thoughts on the bil HD's? Other suggestions (keeping it stock height and not splurging for $$$$$ adjustable coilovers)?

noob....over and out
thanks
RC

 

what about the 5100s ?

 

Yes.....i guess the 5100's would be a slightly more expensive option. Some have indicated that the 5100's only fit on the front or back (can't remember which). From what i understand it sounds like they can be used but it isn't a perfect fit (more compression? less compression?) so they wear out faster?

I've read so many shock threads that it is all getting blurry. Seems that most are lifting so alot of the info doesn't apply to what i want to do......

Another question. I (think) i read somewhere that the tacoma requires a bigger bushing than is typically supplied with shocks....can anyone comment on this? What is the correct size bushing?

cheers
RC

 

I know this thread is a few months old, but I'm in the same boat. Rockclimber, what did you decide to do and how is it?