I have a 95 4runner that is totally stock. I gets me where I want to hunt and fish. it has 72,400 miles. I have two questions: 1. How can you tell when it is time to replace shocks? It passes the bounce test when parked and you try to push down on the front end. 2. If the shocks do need replacing, what would be good for my purposes?

 

How is the rear handling bumps?

I have an 89 and 98 4runner and the first thing I did was replace the factory shock with Ranch RS5000. After a couple of years I decide to try bilsteinsand won't use anything else.

On my 98 4runner (3rd Gen) I recently replaced the factory ones with bilsteins. I haven't had this 4runner long and really didn't like the rearend. I though is was to mushy.

I found out about a Technical Service Bulletin and had the Rear Springs replaced for Free by the dealership.

That helped a lot but I still felt something was wrong. When I had the rear shocks replaced I found out that one of them was bad.

the shocked are charged with a gas (not sure which one - I think nitrogen). Anyhow when they took them off one of them was still compressed and I knew I found the problem.

It's like driving a totally different vehicle.

The best prices I've found for the shocks are Off-Road Warehouse. I bought all 4 and they paid for the shipping.

151.98 for the fronts and 121.98 for the rears.

I hope this helps.

 

FredrickG, that was very helpful Thank you.

 

Brian, stop!

Don't listen to these guys, they'll lead you down a path that will torture your wallet and your knuckles. I'm the guy who will steer you straight! You need to sell me that runner and buy a newer one!!! Just kidding, that is sweet a 95 w/ 72k. Post some pics if you can.

I agree with Frederick, go with the Billies. Replace all shocks as you'll get a much better ride for your buck. Monroe Gas Matics are also a good cheap solution that serves most practical purposes. It's the best way to go (Bils). That Runner will last you forever with those kind of miles. Just my .02!

Cheers, and Happy Cruisin'!

 

Thanks O2, but i'm afraid that I'm technically challenged when it comes to posting pics. No digital camera and no photos that I can scan. You are right, I will have this 95 until it won't run anymore. I just this June replaced the original battery and the previous spring put on 4 new michelin m/s 31's. Otherwise totaly original. And no rust.

 

Man...a '95 with 74k miles...wish I had one of those around here. My '95 has 125,000 and still runs like a charm.

Mine is totally stock except for the BFG A/T's that the dealer had put on at my request due to the fact that the older tires looked like some off of an Indy car. I am looking into putting some Aisin Manual Hub's (thanks to Corey's recommendation) and replacing the back springs to help level out the rig. And maybe an ARB front bumper..either that or a set of BFG M/T's for off-roading. Not sure where to burn my money (other than the stupid insurance company!)

-4x4