Hey guys, im a total newb to this truck. I picked up a 94 5 speed with 59k miles for 1000. had it checked out and some techs recommended I replace the suspension in the next couple thousand miles. (its not a safety issue but they said it would drive better.) I use it as my daily, and occasionally take it on some fire road trails for fishing. whats the best way to go about replacing them? OEM parts? or is there something out there that's much better for around the same cost? thanks guys!

 

Where did you find a '94 with only 59k miles? Great googly moogly

There are several options for you. Many people use Old Man Emu gear. You have leaf in the rear and torsion bars up front. You can measure you front and compare it to factory from the service manual and see how much you've sagged.

If you aren't adding a winch or big bumper, you may be able to crank the bars a click or two and restore height without replacing them.

In the rear you can look into the Zuk mod as an alternative to new leaf packs.

When I had my '94, I just used trail gears long shackles and that leveled me out nicely on original springs.

 

There is a whole section here for 2wds. https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f212/ Lots of info about lifting and mid/long travel setups

 

For the most part and since you said 5 lug, that is a two wheel drive. I would stay with the factory parts. You dont have to get them at the dealer, Ebay and Amazon have them as well in some cases. Rock Auto and a few other online dealers have great parts and prices. It can be done real reasonable with some searching for best prices.

When it comes to front end work, I just do it all at once. Upper/Lower Ball Joints, Tie rod ends, Idler Arm, Rag joint...