When should I replace my 4Runner shocks? (1 Viewer)

[Happy Trails]

I own a 2001 4runner 4WD LTD. I am curious as to when I should
replace my stock shocks and with what brand. I have Bilsteins
on my Tacoma, not sure what is on the 4Runner. I'd like to keep the
stock ride or could tolerate a "little" more firmness. I am currently
at 85,400mi. Thanks!

 

[bowyer2002]

I'd say you are due for new shocks at 85K but I cant recommend a brand. Why not replace them with the Bilsteins you already are running? New shocks should feel firmer that the old ones anyway.

 

[toyminator]

When they go bad. Duh.

 

[Happy Trails]

I am considering the standard bilsteins. I have the bilstein 5100 series on my Tacoma and they are pretty stiff.
My 4Runner seems to ride about the same, I was just curious as to what the normal life cycle of a set of shocks is.
Thanks for the input.

 

[hoch]

I have heard of people blowing them at 60k. Really depends on how they were treated. But generally, 90-100k has been the life of the shocks in my experience. Are you thinking about lifting at all? This would be the time to do it. And if so, I'd recommend OME's.

 

[Happy Trails]

I would agree if I were to lift it I'd go with OME but I just want to keep her as my stock DD/snow skiing mobile.

 

[Ian Rogers]

i am running the std billstins in the rear of my 2000 4 runner and they work great. Firmmer then stock but not harsh. I now have king CO in the front and they are great best $600 i ever spend on the truck

 

[Ian Rogers]

well maybe the trd supercharger and urd 7th was the best $$$ i ever spent on the 4 runner

 

[Happy Trails]

Amen on that supercharger! My friend has one, what a difference that thing makes. Where is a good place to order
a set of standard bilsteins?

 

[Ian Rogers]

i went down to Auto Zone because I did not want to deal with shipping

 

[Happy Trails]

Autozone, great, didn't think they carried them. Thanks!

 

[ken_79-fj40]

I replaced the factory shocks on my 00 at about 90k with bilsteins. The truck handles far better. It is a little stiffer but my wife doesn't mind. It's primarily her truck. I just put bilsteins on my 05 tacoma and the difference is even more dramatic. The factory tokico's were totally smoked at 70k. Of course I continued to drive it for another 2k miles and ruined the tires.

 

[AC96Runner]

I did mine between 60 & 80K. Can't remember for sure. I went with Bilstein & a set of progressive rate springs. I bought it all from Performance Products. It added a little height & the ride quality stayed the same. I love it & I've had numerous compliments.

 

[Duane]

Usually shocks are replaced when they no longer dampen out the body from bouncing very well, or side to side variations.. or whenever you can see a visual leak/buildup of oil and dirt start to happen.
Lots of options on shocks....