SAWS installation difficulties
 

I tried installing the SAWS front coilovers on my 1999 4x4 V6 Limited 4Runner.
However, I couldn't get the bolts to line up with the holes on the the top mount of the shock. It's real close, but the threads don't bite on the bolt.

The part number on the boxes: 52000-108-5 2" Tacoma

I thought I read that there are no differences between the 4Runner and Tacoma top mounts.

Any suggestions?
I've installed coilovers (HKS and custom) on my sports cars with no hiccups.
So, I think I'm doing it correctly.

J

Did you try rotating the shock? I believe, if I remember correctly that you have to rotate the shock until the bolts on top line up with the holes. Ask Schaeffer he'll remember what you have to do.

Yeah, just rotating them will get them to line up. I think there are 2 sets of holes on the coilover 1 for tacos/runners and 1 for tundras. I had the same problem too.

I tried rotating the spring hat around, but if one bolt is in, the other two don't line up (very close to lining up though).

I'll try again tomorrow with the shraeder valve toward the engine side.

J

be careful with the shraeder valve.. if you point it in, you might be hitting it on something.. i'd recommend to leave it out and just try the second set of holes.

Definately do put the valve towards the inside - With it on the outside your brake caliper can shear off the valve in some situations (can't remember if it's full droop or full stuff) - I know Jeff the Marmot sheared 2 of his off with them on the outside before.

Also as far as lining up the holes this is taken from Steve's write-up... "The Sway-A-Way instructions have you remove the top plate. Bolt it on first, then insert the shock and spring up into the top plate. This is necessary if you want to place the valve inward. You can bolt them right up out of the box but the holes will only line up if the valve is pointed toward the tires. The instructions indicate that you point the valve out ward but quite a few people have sheared off the valve with the brake caliper of the big 16" wheels brakes."

Done.

It's a lot better to put in the bolts when you have sunlight.
I used the second set of holes (the hole farthest away from the "R" on Racerunner).

Once the bolts were in place, it's pretty much downhill except for the height tuning.

I left the Schraeder valve on the outside toward the tire since the directions recommend it and I can see how it's more recessed than the previous shocks (damage of the valve can be shown on http://www.bajataco.com/dangerous-schrader.jpg).

Thanks for the replies and suggestions,
J

Now I have the rear OME shocks and springs to install. :)