I found a guy that is selling a SS7.1 lift complete, never installed. I've got him down to about $900. However, I am concerned that there is a large difference in ride quality between the older SS kits and the new kits with the custom valved billsteins. I have done a lot of searching, but I can't really find anyone that has directly compared the new bilstein shocks and the older shocks in the SS lift kits. SO I am wondering if it is worth the extra $400 to get the new shocks or if that is money that would be better spent on the rear tire carrier?
Also, can anyone confirm that the only difference between the 7.X and 1.X SS lift kits are the FZJ-80 front coils? This is all for my 97 4Runner. Thanks!

 

I would call Steve and ask him.

 

Regarding the ride of the original 7.1 vs later versions, call Steve as noted.

On the subject of the rear springs, that is the only difference between the 1.x and 7.x kit, unless a change has been made since I did mine. I specifically asked about the differences in case I wanted to go taller in the rear and confirmed it.

MadCityRich

 

7.0 and 7.1 were considerably less expensive than the 1.2 or 7.2 kits. Around $200 less. The Bilstein 5125 shocks added adjustability and a much higher end shock, which a much higher price tag. The shocks are the only difference.

There is nothing wrong with the older kits, but the older kits should not be sold for the price of the newer ones either.

 

I know someone, his name is Steve Schaefer. He says there is a huge difference. Also came a big cost increase with bling.

 

Hmm, but Steve that would require actually picking up the phone and calling someone instead of noodling around on the internet while watching tv! Thank you for your advice and your time. With the new information Steve provided me with I have decided it is in fact worth it to go with a new SS1.2 kit, especially since the kit I was looking at was not made for a 4x4 vehicle!