Just picked up an 85 4x4 pickup and the leaf springs are shot! I can probablly find a set of rears locally but the fronts? forget about it! I was looking at lift kits and i see most come with new fronts and a add-a-leaf for the rears. No matter what i have to replace them all. What are your thoughts on the best way to go? I dont have a ton of money but i dont want throw it away on something i'm not going to be happy with and replaceing it back stock aint that cheep.

 

buy aftermarket springs... they are cheap compared to other vehicles needing lifts... its front and rear leaves

 

I would just do the same, but aftermarket springs and add some lift.... as soon as you start playing with it offroad, you'll get hooked, want more lift, and be glad you already too care of it :-)

 

If you don't have big plans for building up the truck, the OME (Old Man Emu) 2" lift kit is very nice, new springs and gas shocks all the way around. Fits stock shackles, spring hangers, u-bolts, etc. so the install is easy. Rides and handles quite nice. Check out http://www.arbusa.com/ for more info.

Here's an '85 4Runner with those springs:

 

Thanks for the tips!!!

 

Hey Crawler, where can that OME kit be found? That website only describes the springs...

 

Here is a review article, has ordering information as well:

http://www.off-road.com/toyota/reviews/ome/