I'm really close to ordering the PP springs/bilstein shock combo for my '99 4runner SR5 Highlander. I'm not interested in lifting my 4runner too much (1-2 inches) and I like the idea of having more control and the progressive type springs on the vehicle. I'm a 90% on-road/10% off-road user. Does anyone have any input on this combo?

Also, would you recommend that I have the front spring professionally compress and changed out or that I do it myself. I did it once before with some EMU heavy duty's on my '90 4runner with no problem, but it is a bit nerve racking given the potential threat to life.

Thanks for your input...

 

Been there done that.......Had it about 2 years, I was VERY satisfied with that setup in my 98 SR5. It rode much better than the stock setup.
I tried to load them myself and wouldn't recommend it, unless I was trying to hurt someone. I rented the spring compressor from Pep Boys but that was more scary than anything I could have thought up.
I think my local mechanic put them together for me the next morning for $40.
Make sure you have it aligned after.
I have since changed out my front springs and shocks for Donahoes, I just got a deal I couldn't pass up. (LOVE them also). Still have the rear PP springs in though.
(I would get that S/C also if not for the soon to be $3 gal super unleaded here in SoCal, rear locker is next)
Good Luck,

 

Thanks Ducseven, I'm looking forward to the new type ride with the springs/shocks. I think I will have the springs done by a pro. I too was thinking of life without a lower jaw or a broken arm or leg the last time I did the spring job....not fun on the mind as you know.

I love the S/C and have not had trouble with the pinging/knocking yet. The gas is up there, but not as high as Cali...sorry about those prices, dude. Once you do it, you'll be happy you did. I had fun today passing a 3 series BMW up a hill out here in Boulder (even if he wasn't really trying).

 

So far, I LOVE my PP/bilstein set up...I do plan on lifting it up another 2 or 3" in the near future. I'll let you know how that goes!

but yeah...that is a great setup that I would recommend.

re:install - I don't see what the big deal is there. If your careful there is no threat to your life and/or limb(s)! I actually had one piece of the spring compressor BREAK on me when I was fixing an issue with my orginal install. Smoked my thumb pretty good, but i was clear of it and had the top nut still on the assy. Here's a thought, go to Harbor Freight or Cummings Tools - you can pick up a relable compressor there for about $10.

Aaron

 

jf,

i hate the bilstein/PP setup. definitely firms up the ride quite nicely. dampens railroad track and small pothole bumps big time. i fly over those things now.

also have someone compress the springs for you. not worth the risk for a first timer doing it alone.

no complaints after 2 yeras of having this setup. i like the height/stance because i didn't want anything over 2".

see my 4runner in the vehicle section

bob

 

I currently have the PP/ Bilsten setup. It looks great, but it definantly firms up the ride. It is nothing that is unbearable, but there are other options that are more comfortable. Another thing to consider is price. The springs are about $400 and the shocks are another $300.

 

Another thing to consider would be some 2WD TRD Tundra Coils up front and Downey 1.5"/2.5" springs for the rear with Old Man Emu N91's up front and OME N86's in the rear. Guaranteed to lift 1.5"-1.75" and give an incredible ride.

Coils are about $125 front, $250 rear. Shocks are about $350 for all 4. Total is about $750. You can get the fronts used for a LOT less and save almost $100.

 

jf,
if you are interested I will be selling my PP/ Bilsten setup as soon as my 2wd Tundra springs get here. They only have about 6000 miles on them. Just a heads up. You can save some cash

 

Bamachem,

Do you currently have the tundra/ome set-up? How do you like the ride? Also, with that much lift, would I need to drop the front dif and get longer brake cables (I know that's not a bad idea anyway)? I currently have 265/75R16's BFG A/Ts too, would they look kind of small if I lifted that much? Thanks for the advice.

Forest

 

Filthyrich,

I will definitely consider your offer. I'm curious why your going with the TRD's? More lift or better ride or both? And, when do you think you'll have your old setup off your truck? Thanks.

Forest