Noel

I did a search on this and found that people usually use PP springs with bils. I have a 96 limited and the rear is sagging. I'm in the process of adding a 200-300 pound stereo in the back, what spings should I get to compensate for the added load? Thanks.


Noel

ALBPM

I had the PP coils/Bilsteins on the front and back of my 2002 Runner. I replaced the rear PP coils with the Downey 3.5" coils and it rides much better. I still have the PP coils in the front. This gave me about 2" lift in the front and 3" lift in the rear. With 200-300lbs of stereo in the back it would sit more level.
Also the PP rear coils tended to rattle and not fit quite right in the bottom cup.

Noel

Thanks for the reply. I'm not sure if I want a 2-3" lift. From what I can tell there are some added issues with raising the truck as far as durability of parts is concerned. I'm more interested in improving the ride with the least amount of worry possible. A small lift would be nice but stock ride height might work as well. My concern is with the added weight in the rear I want to make sure that the truck sits level and handles well. FWIW, I believe the suspension is shot. The truck does a decent job on the highway but rides very rough on uneven ground. Jars the hell out of me.
Any thoughts?

Thanks.

Noel

Roadtripr

I kept my stock springs when I added bils and they seem to work fine so far. I wasn't interested in a huge lift and only noticed a small lift with the bils (<1")

Noel

Thanks Roadtripr...How do I know if my stock springs are done for?

Roadtripr

96-98 2wd models had a recall regarding sagging rear suspension (try a search). You could try call the dealer and see if they will do the recall work (get new springs, bumpstops etc). Maybe someone who had this done can chime in.
This say some about it
NHTSA Recall History

1996: Some 2WD models could lose directional stability when hauling heavy loads and under severe driving manuevers. Although 4WD models did not exhibit this condition, they were also recalled, to avoid confusion. 1996: Sticker alerting driver to "particular handling and maneuvering characteristics of utility vehicles" was not affixed to driver's sunvisor. 1997: Some 2WD models could lose directional stability when hauling heavy loads and under severe driving manuevers. Although 4WD models did not exhibit this condition, they were also recalled, to avoid confusion. 1998: Some 2WD models could lose directional stability when hauling heavy loads and under severe driving manuevers. Although 4WD models did not exhibit this condition, they were also recalled, to avoid confusion. 1998-99: Some wheel lug nuts are defective, causing loss of torque, fatigue fracture of wheel, and possible loss of wheel. "

Noel

Cool...I'll take that into consideration. What about OME stuff? Would I be better off getting their shocks and springs? I'm pretty sure that they offer different spring rates, which I could use to balance out the truck.

Roadtripr

BTW do you have a 4wd? It determines which springs you need.
I think if you get new OEM shock and springs it should level it.

Noel

Yes I have 4wd. What are some other aftermarket spring options?

Roadtripr

hmm.. you have to ask the pros on this board. some people use OME

naksukow

https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/actual-old-man-emu-881-891-springs-39005/