Suspension/Rake Recommendations

[FLLCHE]

I just purchased a '20 HE with 111k miles on the clock and while the suspension feels in good shape, I plan on needing to replace the factory struts in short time. The issue is (and let the ribbing begin), I don't want to make the truck any higher than it is. The HE is already comically raked & way too tall in the rear w/o the 3rd row (I thought Toyota used a softer/shorter rear spring w/o a third row?, doesn't look like it). At 5'11", getting into the front seat takes a hop and I'm afraid I'll rub my left lower seat cushion leather away (maybe I have short legs). I don't like the look or the added weight of rock sliders either, this car already drinks gas. In all honesty, I would like to take alleviate the rake issue by lowering the back instead of using a spacer/level kit up front. Putting a spacer or level kit up front would just make it harder to jump into driver's seat. Any suggestions? Also, I assume just going with OEM struts or some Bilstein's will fulfill my needs? I'm not off-roading. I get this is a first world problem, but any advise would be appreciated, even the sarcastic kind. Thanks

 

[sedole]

Honestly, power retracting side steps might make a lot of sense for you. I don't know if there are any direct bolt on kits out there for the 200 series, but I know I've seen a couple people do that. I thought they were absolutely stupid--then I had ones that came factory optioned on a limited 4runner. Honestly, they're great and you can get ones that tuck up so cleanly you barely even notice they're there.

 

[WreckDiver1321]

It would likely be easier to raise the front than it would be to lower the rear. I get that you don't want to make it any taller, but the options for a proper lowering spring are just about non-existent outside taking the rear springs out and chopping a bit off of them, which I'd not recommend. I believe King makes a set, but I believe they're - 30mm, which works out to a little over an inch. That may be too much change.

E&E makes a replacement top plate spacer that will bring the front up another quarter inch, so that may be a decent option. Or, since you're planning on shock replacement, a Bilstein 5100 is also a good choice since you can add some front end height.

 

[dudemancool1904]

HE 2 rows have a different part number rear spring vs 3 row trucks.
Get some OEM running boards and call it a day.

 

[TeCKis300]

I tend to agree that you might just need a good step. Slee slidersteps IMO are a great addition to any LC, off-roading or not. Just a great OEM looking functional step.

 

[gasman4u]

Budbuilt sliders would help your entry/exit. Their added weight likely will minimally affect your MPG.

Lowering your rig will be an interesting choice as that’s a direction people usually don’t go.

 

[kcjaz]

Wescott modified some retractable AMP Tundra steps for the 200.



There are others as well. Just google “retractable running boards for 200 series land cruiser.” I like the idea of these for trucks that stay on pavement, though everyone I know with these on an F150 inevitably ends up with them stuck up or down.

FWIW, I once bought an FJ60 that had been lowered, as in a for real Low Rider. Had shag carpet on the dash too. Anything can be done though not everything should.

 

[dudemancool1904]

Budbuilt sliders would help your entry/exit. Their added weight likely will minimally affect your MPG.

Lowering your rig will be an interesting choice as that’s a direction people usually don’t go.

Budbuilts would be premium a1 but if you’re not really off roading they’re overkill.

I honestly think you don’t need suspension and should just pick up some oem running boards. I had the same feeling too when I had stock suspension and pulled off my running boards. Omg it’s so tall, I’m gonna get my pants dirty, and my Poor seat cushion.

 

[FLLCHE]

Thanks for all the recommendations, I think I'm going to go with the King Rear springs @WreckDiver1321 recommended. I have no idea if my rear springs are OEM, but it's definitely too "face down, ass up". I'll reassess then and report back, and maybe go with the Slee.