Replacing Struts/Springs Etc.

[leoandgrauce]

My 1997 is sagging on the left side and I believe it has the original struts (and highly likely springs). I’m trying to keep this as close to stock as possible. Any recommendations to level this out with strut replacement? Will I need springs as well? I’ve heard getting new springs is tough due to its age.

 

[BILT4ME]

A 97 does not have struts.

They have shocks. Buy Tokico brand from the online Toyota dealership, Mcgeorge. These will be cheaper and better than any aftermarket shock.

Fir springs go with OME Old Man Emu stock height springs from www.cruiseroutfitters.com or Slee Off Road.

 

[ppc]

The 80 Series does not use struts. Springs an shocks. Shocks only dampen the springs and do not change ride height so your only choice is new springs. On the first page of the forum is a sticky post dedicated to all available suspension options and all the info you need.

 

[Cruzerman]

The 80 Series does not use struts. Springs an shocks. Shocks only dampen the springs and do not change ride height so your only choice is new springs. On the first page of the forum is a sticky post dedicated to all available suspension options and all the info you need.

Yup. Shocks don't hold up the rig, the springs do. And there is nothing tough about installing springs and shocks. Hardest part I've dealt with is getting the shock bolts out without breaking them off. Lots a lots of choices these days in springs and shocks. And lots and lots of threads on it as well. So some searching and reading and you will most likely find out everything you need to know and more. Good luck.

 

[338Lapua]

Yup. Shocks don't hold up the rig, the springs do. And there is nothing tough about installing springs and shocks. Hardest part I've dealt with is getting the shock bolts out without breaking them off. Lots a lots of choices these days in springs and shocks. And lots and lots of threads on it as well. So some searching and reading and you will most likely find out everything you need to know and more. Good luck.

Quick questions, Do you need to unbolt any of the shocks top bolts if you just want to swap out springs? Never done it before and have some id like to try (93 FZJ80)

 

[amgraham]

Quick questions, Do you need to unbolt any of the shocks top bolts if you just want to swap out springs? Never done it before and have some id like to try (93 FZJ80)

I think you have to take either the top or the bottom of the shock loose so you can get enough droop on the axle to pop the spring out and back in.

To the original topic as long as you're not planning to do much offroading the stock height OME springs and OEM shocks are a great combo. I'm really happy with mine on road (but feel they're too harsh offroad).

 

[Cruzerman]

Quick questions, Do you need to unbolt any of the shocks top bolts if you just want to swap out springs? Never done it before and have some id like to try (93 FZJ80)

You should only have to do one end. However, it the springs are shot, so are the shocks. If it were me, I'd do springs and shocks.