Swapping from Icon lift to OEM shocks during shock service

[sorich]

Hey folks - I'm wondering if anyone can weigh in on the feasibility of this plan. I need to send my Icon remote res shocks for a rebuild and some additional service (re-valving, adding fins, etc.).

Is there any reason I couldn't or shouldn't unbolt my shocks and install stock Toyota shocks temporarily while I'm without my Icon's for the couple of weeks or so it will take to get them back?

Considerations:

• I have SPC UCA's installed.
• I am running a roughly 2" lift currently. OME Torsion Bars up front, Slee SOF2RH springs in the rear.
• I'm running 285/75/r16's on SCS F5's - I'm not too worried about a little tire rub here and there.
• I will not be wheeling during this time - Only paved road for my commute and limited milage (~100 miles/wk)

One thought I had is that I could potentially bottom out my shocks since I'll still be lifted, but perhaps that's not a concern if I'm taking it easy and only commuting.

Another thought I had is that perhaps I'd run into an issue bolting the OEM shocks to the SPC Upper Control Arms, but not sure about that.

Any input would be greatly appreciated! Here's a pic of my LX as it stands currently - It's also going in for paint, and I could potentially be putting even fewer miles on it if there is some overlap with the paint shop and the shock service, but I'll still need some kind of shock on there while it's in for paint.

 

[MongooseGA]

Do it. This is my exact plan for when I need to have my Dobinson's rebuilt. Just don't plan on maxing out articulation in the time you're running the shorter OEM shocks.

 

[scubadoober]

The front shocks do not bolt to the UCA’s. Your total articulation will not change in the front either.

 

[sorich]

Ha! Right you are. That was a dumb question.

This might be one too:

Can I get by with just picking up a set of cheap oem shocks and reusing the bolts/bushings/washers on the top of the shocks? Or will I need to get some additional parts to make this work?

 

[ClassyJalopy]

Having run OEM Toyota shocks on a 98 LX with 2.5" lift and 33" tires on original offset and not taking easy on it at all, I can tell you the Tokico shocks are 100% up to the task. Run them without worries my friend - they actually had more travel than some aftermarket shocks I looked at that time.