How to EASILY Install Front Shocks (Bilstein 5100 Lift) Tacoma 3rd Gen

[@teamoildrop]

⚙See the Items in video below! 💬Join the Discord: discord.gg/RUJbAj8QPB (comment if link broken) 🤜🤛Wanna do us the ultimate bro/bro'ette move? Send this video to a tacoma buddy! 🚨 Finally on IG! : @teamoildrop Items in this video: (Amazon affiliate links) Bilstein 5100 Full Shock Set - amzn.to/41zUloR Jack - amzn.to/48Apvih Jack Stands - amzn.to/41J7ewP 1/2" Drive Socket Set - amzn.to/48Ao0Rb 1/2" Deep Socket Set - amzn.to/48sNEqK 3/8" Drive Socket Set - amzn.to/41yyGNP 3/8" Torque Wrench - amzn.to/41Bd7Mp Socket Accessory Set - amzn.to/3tsMRYb Wrench Set - amzn.to/41Ks3bd Plier Set - amzn.to/3HgVpop Breaker Bar - amzn.to/3vkkHyU (These are Amazon affiliate links: Amazon pays the channel a small fee every time you fine people buy through these links) ⚙Tacoma World - www.tacomaworld.com/threads/3rd-gen-maintenance-maps-get-300k-miles.789809/ ⚙Channel Shop - team-oil-drop-shop.fourthwall.com/ Found this vid helpful? Give us a like 👍 and sub! Much more to come!

[@scottstewart1660]

This is how all DIY videos should be...zero BS.

[@teamoildrop]

Stick around! All vids will be this way.

[@cainmenard5720]

Totally agree. Like, sorry, I'm not looking to hear your life story, and I'm not trying to watch this video to simp over a hot girl. LOL

[@oresteperez8615]

What Scott said!

[@BretHalford]

crazy, you're the only one who didn't disconnect the sway bar or UCA. definitely using this vid when i swap my 6112s in.

[@teamoildrop]

I’ve got that route twice before… never again!

[@jasonzarate6664]

@@BretHalford I’m watching all sorts of videos for the same reason. My 6112 should be here soon. Mine will come assembled so I don’t have to unmount the spring but this method still looked more simple than others I’ve watched.

[@claybishop3791]

Most excellent! I just did my '23 SR5 after watching this video. In the past I've done the spring compressing method, and your method was by far way easier. I'm always skeptical of videos being overly edited and leaving me scratching my head. BUT, this video was straight forward and no BS. I usually rank my projects by how many beers have to be consumed, but I didn't even need one until it was time to clean up. No tools were thrown, no f-bomb melt downs, no cut knuckles, and my wife even brought me a samich! BTW, I went with the 4th ring, 1.5 lift, and the truck is nearly dead nuts level. CHEERS!!!

[@teamoildrop]

GREAT SUCCESS! bet that truck rides great now too 😎 Love to hear it!

[@MrTB321]

You left the rear on stock height and it’s level on the 1.55”?

[@claybishop3791]

@@MrTB321 Mine is a 2wd and to me the stock suspension gave it the stink bug look. I didn’t do anything to the rear and doing the 1.55 setting made the front a tad higher than the rear. Gave it a couple months and the new shocks settled down to where it’s almost even, but the front is a few hairs higher than the front. To me it looks level without breaking out a measuring tape. Depends on where you measure from and surface you’re parked on. I’m letting my current stock tires wear down. When I get new tires they’ll be bigger and I can see wanting to do something to the rear.

[@joegonzalez5602]

Team oil drop I just let everyone on tacoma world to check out your channel. Love the way you explain work on 3rd gen tacoma's. Keep up the great work.

[@teamoildrop]

Thanks Joe!

[@renenavarro4121]

Best video by far. Super clear and thanks for the torque specs

[@teamoildrop]

My pleasure!

[@Glenn.Cooper]

I've watched a bunch of videos about Tacoma front suspension videos - and this was BY FAR the BEST - to the point, clear, concise. Thanks a ton!!

[@teamoildrop]

Thank you Glenn! It’s our pleasure! 🍻

[@chelly9131]

You just answered a ton of questions I had. Definitely subbing now! Thanks for the vid all meat no fluff

[@teamoildrop]

🍻

[@DavidFairchild-jy3uz]

I appreciate your video a lot. It helped me to do this on my 16 Tacoma today. I want to save someone else some heartache by mentioning something that I did not figure out until I got my truck back together and my alignment done. I noticed my top bushings were not compressed as much as they should and just played it off as maybe they were using different bushing material that was stronger. I had the top nuts completely tight with lots of thread showing. Here was my issue. I didn’t realize when I dropped my old shocks that the bottom top hat bushings had came out with them🤦🏻‍♂️. That’s what the bottom washer is for on the new shocks, the old lower top hat bushing sits in that washer. Thankfully I couldn’t let go why my truck drove fine and was quiet but was not satisfied with why those top bushings wouldn’t compress. I’ll be hopefully disassembling this week to put the lower top hat bushings back in to prevent damage to the shock studs. I’m not sure why Bilstein would not include these anyway as you are already replacing the top bushing. But lessons learned 😂.

[@teamoildrop]

Thanks for sharing your experience. Thank you Greg the Editor

[@astronomy_v]

Installing this today! I love that it’s short and straight to the point and really appreciate the torque specs, going to be watching this video and doing it all step by step hahaha

[@teamoildrop]

Outstanding! Take your time, go slow, be safe, enjoy the experience

[@Andrew-my7pz]

You explained everything in less than 5 minutes! I will be following this when I do my install. Thanks

[@teamoildrop]

Thanks. I always try to cut out the pointless length that most vid makers do simply for monetization. Y’all are here to get a quick, clear, and concise walkthrough and that’s what I try to provide

[@ronreed8570]

This way makes more sense. Other videos have you separating ball joints sway bar and UCA. And top hat. Is all that even necessary?

[@teamoildrop]

@@ronreed8570 I’ve done the “old way” twice before on Tacomas. This way is superior in every way. Both require alignments afterward like any lift would.

[@najati]

These videos are remarkably well done. I'm gonna try to replace the serpentine belt on my 2016 Taco thanks to your other video. Subscribed! Good luck with the channel!

[@teamoildrop]

Thank you! The serp is pretty easy! Good luck - Tyler

[@hd114ul7]

Watched this a few times. I just got my Bilsteins and Ebach 1" rear blocks. I was going to take it to a shop because of watching other videos. It looks like it will be no problem. The hard part is going to be finding an reputable allignment shop. Thank you.

[@teamoildrop]

I usually do any place that has a modern laser setup like Firestone BECAUSE they give you the printout and will fix it if they mess up.

[@arturoibarra8029]

So when changing the front shocks, should the springs not be changed also? I'm looking to change both the front and back shocks, don't really do much offroad but do have a back tent that I add when ever we go camping plus equipment. Recommendations??

[@arturoibarra8029]

I also have a 3rd gen offroad

[@teamoildrop]

@@arturoibarra8029 no reason to change out those factory coils unless you want more lift, different ride stiffness, or a combo of the both

[@arturoibarra8029]

@teamoildrop alright awesome! I am just looking to add the standard lift from the shock nothing more, it's a daily driver but we go camping every now and then that's all. Thank you!!

[@teamoildrop]

@ with this being said, the 5100s are specifically designed with the factory coils in mind

[@chrismichaels3839]

Can you give some insight as to why you chose the 1.1 inch lift setting versus a greater or lesser lift for your build? Thanks!

[@teamoildrop]

If you look at the pro/trail editions of the 3rd gen, they only get about a 1.1 or 1.5in front lift, that's by design from Toyota for both longevity, but also performance. Once you start exceeding 2in of front lift on the Tacoma, you really start to stress a lot of other components: CV axles, ball joints, UCA, LCA, etc. Also the 1.1in front lift gives you almost a perfectly level truck front to rear, so that is a perfect option for those just looking to remove the factory rake. -Austin

[@teamoildrop]

@@chrismichaels3839 additionally, aesthetically that’s how like it! - Tyler

[@chrismichaels3839]

@@teamoildrop Thanks!

[@jogu1732]

Excellent video! Tremendously appreciate you making this available.

[@teamoildrop]

Thank you!

[@thebigbail]

My front driver side sags .25” more than passenger. What are thoughts on different clip setting side to side to address the issue. (New truck, low miles)

[@teamoildrop]

Is this only when you have a full fuel tank? I am very against different settings to make up a 1/4” sag.

[@thebigbail]

@@teamoildrop yeah it was full tank, measured from rim so no tire squat difference though.

[@teamoildrop]

@@thebigbail take another measure when youre below half a tank. I bet you're level. This is a common little annoyance on our trucks.

[@thebigbail]

@@teamoildrop 👍🏼 will do, thanks.

[@vincentc6690]

Great video and very informative. I’m looking to do this to my truck along with the rear.

[@teamoildrop]

Appreciate the words! You’ll find the rears in another video as well

[@WaitingForTheSignal]

Cannot thank you enough for showing this! Awesome! Just plain Awesome!

[@teamoildrop]

Thanks brother! Enjoy

[@jeff_doyle]

Thanks so much for putting this video together, just installed the TRD lift kit and this was super helpful for the front. I’ve never done a lift before and it took about 2.5 hours for the front. The 2nd side only took 40 minutes.

[@teamoildrop]

Thanks for the kind words. Glad you found it helpful Greg the Editor

[@VVMVVMVVM]

Best video I’ve seen covering this, thanks!!

[@teamoildrop]

Thanks!

[@brandonfyfe630]

Would this method work if I’m replacing stock front suspension with Fox2.0 coilovers. They would be completely assembled out of the box.

[@teamoildrop]

Yes, same overall method. However you won’t need to unbolt the center nut on either assembly and relieve the spring pressure. Just undo the top 3 nuts on the outside and pull out the assembly as one unit. -Austin

[@brandonfyfe630]

Thank you and keep the videos coming!

[@sk8pinkfloyd]

Your channel rocks. Always good stuff, no fluff. But I wish you had shown the spring decompress instead of just saying "stand back and go slow", and then cutting to taking the strut assembly out. That's what would determine, for me, whether to do this or not.

[@teamoildrop]

@@sk8pinkfloyd never before was I more upset my camera wasn’t rolling when that happened 😆 I hear you. Note, it does come down very slow and safe IF you have a decent jack. No old leaky jack should be used here.

[@sk8pinkfloyd]

@@teamoildrop Oye ... been there. I have a nice newish 3-ton Daytona jack, but it is very hard to spin the handle in a controlled manner. Sometimes it just lets go. Think I'll do the rear 5100s then take the fronts to my shop guy. :-)

[@teamoildrop]

@@sk8pinkfloyd a safe and solid choice! 🍻

[@ColeMac05]

Ive got a 2013 Tacoma I wanna do this to, is the process the same on the second gen or are their differences?

[@teamoildrop]

Identical process for 2nd and 3rd gen trucks. The lift height chart is different for the 2nd gen’s since there is less front weight, so make sure to look at that if you’re using them for lift! -Austin

[@kmvd967]

You are a lifesaver, just installed the same setup on my tacoma. 😊

[@teamoildrop]

Glad we could help Greg

[@benanderson569]

I did this exact lift in the same way. Worked perfectly. Good vid!

[@teamoildrop]

It’s great! Thanks 🍻

[@spuskas4866]

What torque setting did you tighten the top bolt on the strut too ? Or did you just tighten it to make it as thin as the washer?

[@dustinkooy8384]

Wonder if I can get this done with my bottle jack.. 🤔 I may need to find a floor jack. Thank you for another clear & informative vid 🙏 Got the rear shocks in, going to do front end on Monday.

[@teamoildrop]

For your own safety please do not beother. Not with any amount of extensions. The control arm swings out some too so a quality jack with wheels is required. Thanks for the words! Let us know how it goes.

[@bam2922]

Just installés the 5100s on my 2015 tacoma and they fixed the bouncing in the rear. Im very happy with theeae shocks .

[@teamoildrop]

Happy to hear it fixed your bouncing issue! They are a great shock for sure. -Austin

[@markschecterson3260]

I can't get the top 17mm nut off the old strut. Soaked it with Kroil and it still won't budge.

[@teamoildrop]

@@markschecterson3260 they can be a REAL pain. Some just cut straight through the shock shaft

[@stayraddad4638]

Curious... while I plan on getting alignment done as soon as possible... when retightening the Cam adjustment portion on the LCA, did you try to align as close what it was before. I see in the Video that they flop around and everything is loosy goosy, so wondered about getting them close to what I had until I can get in for alignment. (Might be a few days before I can get aligned. Thanks!

[@teamoildrop]

@@stayraddad4638 I definitely marked their position with a big marker on my 4th gen. On my 3rd I went straight to the alignment shop just down the street. I’d mark the cam bolts before loosening if I do this again.

[@stayraddad4638]

@@teamoildrop ah gotcha. Thank you. I thought that's what everyone did, I just wanted to check as the Marker estimate wasn't in the video. Thank you !

[@joelclimbsrock]

Is it recommended to loosen UCA and re-torque with weight on the tires after new struts or is that only necessary with extreme lifts? I’m doing bilstein 5100 on #2 0.85” to level my 4Runner.

[@teamoildrop]

Technically all suspension components should be torqued while the vehicle weight is loading up the suspension. Although some components do make that very difficult when you have the wheels on the vehicle or it's on the ground. The UCA isn't mission critical to torque while on the ground, but it is recommended. -Austin

[@rockkstah2550]

Thank you for the video and for providing the proper torque specs after the mods, much appreciated it….

[@teamoildrop]

Our pleasure! 🍻

[@spuskas4866]

What torque setting did you use for the top nut on the front strut?

[@Tony-v8q8k]

Is ecg bushing required for the same lift setting at 1.1? I own a 2022 and don’t want to run into any issues.

[@teamoildrop]

@@Tony-v8q8k I definitely have not had any issues and did not do the ECG

[@Tony-v8q8k]

@ thanks for the reply, will be doing the same stance 👍

[@derekp6636]

Passenger side was easy, driver side just dont wanna go in straight lol, almost done! Just gotta get over to get the allignment done afterwards. Old ones were definitely due for replacement, bushings almost completely shot and all the rubber breaking down.

[@teamoildrop]

All in good time! 💬 😂

[@derekp6636]

@@teamoildrop for any other idiots like me....make sure the mounting bracket isn't upside down and it'll go in easier....

[@Carlos-jp6mg]

I have minimum knowledge of how things work. I've never done lifts on any vehicle before, would you recommend it? Also for the rear, how do you make it even with the front?

[@toxicwerd2073]

Yes recommend. The rear provides no lift and the fronts and adjustable

[@teamoildrop]

I would suggest toking a look on Tacoma World and looking into the suspension forum page. There are a great deal of discussions that explain common issues with removal and install. Greg the Editor

[@cainmenard5720]

Thanks for creating this. Alternatively, I had a local shop mount the struts in spring coils. 50 bucks, and I didn't risk breaking my face

[@teamoildrop]

@@cainmenard5720 that’s an AMAZING price. Good stuff brother l! 🍻

[@Screaminbeamin]

You can just install a front strut like that??? I thought you had to take the top plate out and use a spring press and assemble the whole thing before putting it back in

[@teamoildrop]

This is THE FUTURE. I’ve done it the way you described a few times as well… never again.

[@a1parra]

Thank you for the torque specs. I appreciate it very much.

[@teamoildrop]

Always a pleasure! 🍻

[@don44m]

I just did this lift by watching your video. I put the clip on the middle setting with no lift in the rear. After the alignment it sits pretty level. My question is what size tires, wheels, and ofset can i use without any cutting or rubbing? I want a nice aggressive look. Thanks for the video and for any help on my tires!!

[@teamoildrop]

At this height the most common tire choice tends to be 265/75r17. If you watch my “OEM plus video” that’s our truck on that height setting with 1” added in the rear. The 1” in the rear is not needed but I like the factory rake look and I also added a camper which took back a fraction of an inch from my rear lift.

[@spuskas4866]

What year truck do you have ?

[@emmohl5785]

Any reason this wouldn’t work with coilovers? I had mine installed no prob but couldn’t get the lca all the way back up. It would lift off the stands when I jacked it back up.

[@teamoildrop]

Very likely your LCA is siezed. A pretty common issue even in non-rust belt states.

[@emmohl5785]

I got it within about 1-1.5” then the truck would lift off the stands

[@teamoildrop]

@@emmohl5785 ah you mean when jacking it up the truck would literally lift away. Interesting. I have not ran into this before… stock springs?

[@emmohl5785]

Using the eibach coilovers. Every bolted up fine. Went to lift the lca back up and it would get within about an inch and then the whole truck would lift. Put stock back in and it went together just fine

[@teamoildrop]

@@emmohl5785 the eibachs must be significantly more stiff. This is a bit of a problem. In this event I’d rent some spring compressors from the local parts stores

[@bmurray7248]

Great vid. I do have the bump stops so what am I doing with the thicker flat washer ? Thanks

[@teamoildrop]

Thanks! Check @ 2:19. It acts as a support/spacer between your bump stops and frame

[@chasebeemon349]

Same in tundra and 4runner have done all 3 off this one video !

[@teamoildrop]

Outstanding! 🍻

[@teamoildrop]

Wish I knew this back in 2014 when I did a 4Runner

[@TracyFeyder]

Hi Chase, what year Tundra did you do this on? Pretty much the same process? Thx.

[@hd114ul7]

Wow thank you!! That was easier than changing the oil with that funky oil filter. I didn't get mad and need to use any swear words or throw any wrenches.😊👍👍

[@teamoildrop]

its THE way tp do this lift now. Congrats!

[@hd114ul7]

Thanks again, watching your video saved me a few hundred bucks. The rear 1" blocks needed some help with ratcheting motorcycle straps to get the pin in the block to center itself. It gets an allignment early Monday morning. My wife is going to love the new look of her truck.😊

[@teamoildrop]

@@hd114ul7 awesome! show us in the discord if you'd like!

[@nastysoda9212]

that locking adjustable wrench is such a nice tool to have for this job.

[@teamoildrop]

I agree! Greg

[@tomnarley1543]

Just curious why you didn’t replace the strut mounts on top?

[@teamoildrop]

@@tomnarley1543 the rubber was very healthy but definitely a good time to do it as desired

[@baboogie7820]

I was thinking about doing this eventually and I just had a couple questions? 1. do you need new springs too? ( I'm at 75k on my 2017 sr5) 2. for leveling, including doing the front and back shocks what height on the shock itself would you recommend for front/back. 3. you already done helped me change the oil, diffs, tf case, and sparkplugs... What maintenance cant you do?

[@teamoildrop]

@@baboogie7820 1. Your springs are good to go! I’m a 2016 with 100k. These were designed to work just fine with your coil springs. 2. Remember rears won’t add height. For leveling… I THINK position 4 is common and adds 1.55” or so inches. The included manual explains. 3. Happy to help 🍻

[@baboogie7820]

oh and also would you need to add a spring in the back if you were just replacing the shock ?

[@teamoildrop]

@@baboogie7820 rear 5100s can handle up to 1” of added lift. I put in a 1” billet cut block to get that tiny bit of height. Very cheap and safe method when done right and done modestly.

[@teamoildrop]

As for adding a spring. No reason too unless you want more height. Block, spring, you got options.

[@baboogie7820]

@@teamoildrop ahhh ok ok thanks man! i heard the front lower by like an inch and a half ( pretty normal if you ask me), so i was thinking to level or minimally lift it all around. Either way keep up the good work my man, Saving my wallet but not my back 🥲

[@wade998]

Great video! Question: is this close to the 2nd gen setup? All the 2nd gen front shock replacement videos do it the hard way. I like your way!

[@teamoildrop]

@@wade998 I am almost positive the procedure will go identically… it’s been a MINUTE since I did this to a second gen and back then I was doing the outdated method… bolt sizes may differ but procedure will be the same. Be safe and go slow!

[@MaddoxBennett-v2z]

Can I install this on a ‘21 Tacoma? I installed a front grille guard and I can feel the weight change in the steering so I am looking at installing a suspension kit.

[@teamoildrop]

You sure can! It’s made for all 3rd gen tacomas

[@OBEYYSIXERZ]

Awesome vid man thank you, you just gave me the confidence to take this on myself. My only question is will this improve ride quality? I drive a lot of highway.

[@teamoildrop]

It’s a significant improvement in ride quality. It’s got a more confident firmness to it that a truck should have. I’ve ran multiple sets of these on tacomas and 4Runners and it’s always great to feel the outcome.

[@TracyFeyder]

Is it basically the same procedure for a 2017 Tundra SR5 4WD? Thx.

[@teamoildrop]

The premise is the same, yes, tundra just has some different looking components and sized bolts. Here’s a specific video for the 2nd gen Tundra in case you want to reference it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hGq0d4ppjdmNkJYsi=rCsXvlo6euTBbPA5 -Austin

[@TracyFeyder]

@@teamoildrop Thank you!

[@drewkohnke597]

With this method of installing, do I need to worry about compressing the coil springs? It seems like you just throw the shock right in there… Thank you

[@teamoildrop]

you don't because you CAREFULLY decompress them and recompress them with a quality jack

[@tjdad13]

Just found your channel , love it!

[@teamoildrop]

Welcome to the team! Check out our discord too, always poppin with good info

[@aafox4]

i’m trying to put the 19mm bolts back on but they just won’t reach. if i jack any further i come off the stands. what am i doing wrong?

[@teamoildrop]

I hit you up in discord!

[@tjzsemba3107]

@@teamoildrop Unfortunately, I have the same issue. There is now a gap that I cannot close. Haven't figured out what is causing this.

[@randycovington3510]

Great how to video! I just installed these on my 2019 off road using your guide, now the TPMS takes about 5 minutes to register the pressure’s. Before installing it was less than a minute. Coincidence? I’m wondering if the additional 2” in ride height has an effect. Anyway, Great channel.

[@teamoildrop]

@@randycovington3510 thanks for the words! That MUST be a coincidence… I can’t imagine the 2” extra range doing anything…

[@RockyMtnWay_406]

I'm getting a 2024 TRD Off-road long bed soon. We'll be sadly driver with mild overland set up doing mountain roads but very little actual off-roading. Can anyone tell me whether 33s will fit ok or go with 32s?

[@teamoildrop]

Same here! Long bed too. 33" are supposed to fit no rub stock lift

[@DonavonPhillips]

Woah.. I just got 5100's to pair with 2" OME lift springs. Would I need a spring compressor to re-install? or not necessary?

[@teamoildrop]

More than likely yes! Have them rented for free from autozone and ready.

[@codymyers6060]

Great video and straight to the point definitely subscribed! Question though I couldn’t get the top grommet to shrink down close to the top washer like you said. I tightened the top mounting bolt as far as I could and it’s still pretty big in size.

[@teamoildrop]

@@codymyers6060 thanks brother! Welcome to the team. It is possible that the grommets are more dense now. As long as you got it squeezed down tight and it otherwise resembles the pictures, video, and instructions, you’ll be golden

[@codymyers6060]

@@teamoildrop thanks man! It is possible I did use the new grommets/bushings bilstein provided for on top of the top hat. I noticed my passenger side has a couple more threads sticking out than the driver too.

[@MRtacoma22]

Love the content bro!! Gold as always!

[@teamoildrop]

Thank you! Happy maintaining

[@danikai2562]

Such a great video! Are the components and process nearly identical for the 1st gen Tundra?

[@teamoildrop]

Thanks! I don’t want to tell you without experience on the 1st gen tundra but the process will be extremely similar but of course use different part numbers.

[@thejdubb43]

If I want to keep the shock assembly together can I jist skip removing the top nut and lower the control arm to remove the shock?

[@teamoildrop]

Just keep the top center nut attached and remove the 3 nuts on the outer edge holding the upper shock mount to the shock tower perch. Then the whole assembly can come out as one unit! -Austin

[@frankdigristina5859]

Hey Tyler, as always great video, your rig looks great!

[@teamoildrop]

Thanks! I’ll be pumping up the rear 1”, and putting on 265/70/17 tires and 4Runner rims here shortly. They are waiting in my garage!

[@Nick-iz2so]

What should I put in the rear though? I’ve looked on their website and all the numbers are confusing

[@teamoildrop]

I run 5100 in the rear (not adjustable height) and they are great. I also added 1” of height in the rear with a simple machined block setup. It’s perfect for me. 1” in the rear is the max you can lift I believe with rear 5100 shocks because the shocks only stretch so far.

[@Nick-iz2so]

@@teamoildrop yeah I was wondering about that, I’d like the truck to be level. Badass build dude! Hopefully getting an OTT tune sometime in the near future!

[@teamoildrop]

@@Nick-iz2so life changing

[@bjjay3964]

@@teamoildrop Are you saying that to level the truck like the image in your video, you have to set the front to 1.1" and use 1" blocks in the rear? Or does it level at the 1.1" setting in the front without a block?

[@teamoildrop]

@@bjjay3964 great question, level is setting front to 1.1 (or the next higher setting even). I run tiny blocks to maintain a factory rake.

[@jandelahoussaye9834]

Do you have to do a realignment after?

[@teamoildrop]

Definitely. Practically any time you modify lift or suspension you need to get an alignment done.

[@RoundTownWithMike]

Maybe someone can help? I have a stock 2006 Tacoma TRD Prerunner 2WD. The shocks are bad and I will be replacing them. Do I need to replace the strut springs or can I use the old ones? Also, What shocks do you recommend for the truck" I am thinking about getting the Bilstein 4600's. If I want to raise the front level Should I use the 5100's?

[@teamoildrop]

Are the coils giving you any reason to believe they may be expiring? I have not used 4600s so can’t speak on it in detail. I’d reccomend hopping in our discord and asking the group!

[@steves264]

Any need to re-calibrate the sensor on grill? Also, Thank You for your service.

[@teamoildrop]

Thank you! Lifting the front only will throw it off slightly and may require a dealership recalibration. You may not need to. Lifting the rear equally will keep it for the most part on track and normal.

[@ryanmoore3123]

My plan was to use the 2 inch setting but after seeing the 1.1 inch on yours I may not. Looks pretty level

[@JL-fly7]

1.1 should get you level and skip some hassles for UCA issues. Just did mine with 6112 at 1.1 set up.

[@teamoildrop]

That does level nearly perfectly The Editor

[@JL-fly7]

@@teamoildrop very true! Couldn’t pick up by eyes 👀

[@LordMorley-s9l]

So if I had an assembled coil over would I just unfasten the 3 bolts at the top instead of the middle one?

[@Pnw_Re26]

Yes, you’ll just beed to unfasten the three bolts and not the middle one.

[@teamoildrop]

Correct and torque to spec The Editor

[@jojeda_v8]

Awesome video, used it for my 2022 Tacoma. Would you know if the installation steps hold true for 2024 Tacoma TRD Sport?

[@teamoildrop]

Same principle yes, the 4th gens do have a slightly wider track so getting the coilover up and behind the UCA is easier than the 3rd gen. But overall you've got the exact same attachment points. Here's a video I found from them installing a westcott design lift kit on a 2024: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6HFmHSFqMaVmZo -Austin

[@ederhernandez5778]

Any problem if only lift the front???

[@teamoildrop]

@@ederhernandez5778 no problem! That’s what many of us do 😎 just make sure to get an alignment after any lift

[@brookebrawley2142]

What model 5100s are those? All ive found online for a 2021 taco only have 4 grooves for the adjustment clip.. Thanks

[@teamoildrop]

@@brookebrawley2142 this is one factory height and 4 raising options (for a total of 5 grooves). Are you sure you’re seeing other options?

[@Searchin4tone]

Outstanding tutorial

[@teamoildrop]

Thanks!

[@stickfiggas22]

How’s the driving experience between stock and the bilstein shocks?

[@teamoildrop]

Glad you asked… honestly greatly Improved. More of a firm confident truck feel rather then a mushy original feel. I’ve installed these on 5 vehicles and I’m always beyond pleased.

[@BandRundown]

Did you not install the drivers side spacer? To fix the taco lean or is that only a 2nd Gen thing?

[@teamoildrop]

I didn’t! Mine didn’t come with it actually.

[@Gunmonkey5]

Question for you, when I take it for alignment can I just take it Toyota or do I need a special off road store?

[@teamoildrop]

Your dealership may or may not do modern laser alignments, definitely call ahead and check. You should be paying $80-$200 for an alignment.

[@Gunmonkey5]

Thanks!

[@MayorMcCheese78]

I'm a little worried on the spring decompress. Will be my first time doing this. Any advice?

[@teamoildrop]

If you're unsure, have a shop do it. If you follow the work as shown in the video, you won't have issues. Safety first,......if you have doubts, don't do it! Greg

[@duncangregho1986]

If you set on 3rd perch and adding a rear shocks this setup will get leveled the truck? thanks you, great videos nice and easy!

[@teamoildrop]

Yes, the truck has 1in of rake from the factory (rear is 1 in higher than the front) so if you install the Bilstein 5100s on the front on perch #3, you will get 1.1in of lift and make the truck level front to rear. The shocks in the rear will not change the ride height, the leaf springs take care of that. -Austin

[@duncangregho1986]

@ thank you very much. 👍🏽

[@DdDten]

Great videos. Just discovered but what’s your background. Mechanic or just an awesome DIY er? Not that matters just curious

[@teamoildrop]

Active military and avid DIYer 😌 🍻

[@James-gc2nx]

Can factory coilovers still be used if 5100s are put on the next highest or tallests lift?

[@teamoildrop]

@@James-gc2nx definitely! They are originally designed with factory coils in mind 😎

[@Joetrout]

If i have a 2” lift 1” spacer to get that 2 inches and wanna get rid of it an go with these 5100’s what setting would i put them at??

[@teamoildrop]

If I understand correctly, you are getting rid of the spacer?

[@Joetrout]

@@teamoildrop yes if i get rid of the 1” spacer that provides right now a 2” lift. What setting on the bilsteins to equal that amount?

[@teamoildrop]

@@Joetrout gotcha, on its highest setting is what you’re looking for.

[@OhWhatATaco]

How’s the ride quality with the 1.1inch lift?

[@teamoildrop]

@@OhWhatATaco honestly significantly better over stock sport suspension. Better on curves and just feels more grounded and secure.

[@chocotoynk2931]

@teamoildrop I'm having issues with that washer after the boot it keeps on clanking is that normal?

[@teamoildrop]

@@chocotoynk2931 it’s not normal. Are you tightened down enough up top? Is the rubber plate still in place up inside the strut housing? Some pics definitely help if you want to show us in the discord

[@chocotoynk2931]

@teamoildrop i think i forgot to install that bushing inside the top hat. So do you think if i redo the shocks do i need another alignment after?

[@manuelbrenes9406]

To get a true level the clip should be set at the 1.1 level? Thanks

[@teamoildrop]

@@manuelbrenes9406 a true level I believe a lot of guys go higher. I like the factory rake look myself and when I have a load in the bed she doesn’t sag

[@MrTB321]

How do you feel about rear blocks and AAL? I bought a truck with a 2 inch rear block. It looks nice but I think I should Take it off, are there any dangers to that large of a block?

[@teamoildrop]

Proper leaves for your application will always be "better" in the sense that they are a spring force rather than a block of aluminum or steel to lift the truck. That being said, I don't see a major issue with a 2in lift block in the rear provided it's working well for your build. I wouldn't get anything taller than a 2in block though, I could see some axle wrap happening at a 3in block height. AAL is a great option if you want to lift the rear with springs and give the rear end a bit more weight resistance. -Austin

[@RRR-pj8cr]

What year model is the Tacoma used in this video ? Fantastic tutorial by the way.

[@teamoildrop]

Thanks! This is my 2016 TRD Sport 4x4 long bed

[@RRR-pj8cr]

@@teamoildropwould all this be the same for a 2023 yrs sport ?

[@teamoildrop]

@@RRR-pj8cr identical!

[@RRR-pj8cr]

@@teamoildropthanks man I’m using this video this Saturday to try to get it done I have no experience either

[@teamoildrop]

@@RRR-pj8cr take it slow and be careful always! Good luck. Hop in our discord (see pinned comment) if you want live help

[@DaddyGlez]

Even with stock high is alignment necessary?

[@teamoildrop]

Because you have lowered your control arms and loosened various pieces it is still heavily recommended

[@Komotz]

If I do the 1.5 in the front, would I need a 1.5 block in the back?

[@teamoildrop]

That should be about exactly level. See the beginning of the video for reference.

[@j.d.9381]

With experience working on cars, how long does it take start to finish for both sides. It looks like about 3 hours.

[@teamoildrop]

@@j.d.9381 3-4 hrs is fair 😎

[@aaabackcountryguides9088]

This is great thanks. It looks like the tacoma is quit level with the 11/2 lift? I was thinking 2" but maybe this is too much?

[@teamoildrop]

I wouldn’t do 2” without lifting the rear. If I recall, one bag of groceries in the bed and you’re sagging! I’m also partial to the factory rake look so I did 1” each front and back.

[@aaabackcountryguides9088]

@@teamoildrop Ok thanks guys. Im looking at putting airbags with a cradle in the rear for when I tow my trailer, carry a sled or a crew of folks and mountain bikes. Sounds like less is more on the front to prevent the sag look though.

[@Liinglingg]

@@teamoildropnew to this, is it possible to do a 2.5 lift with bilstein without the sag? I’m planning to put 285s but don’t want too much extra stuff I see their lift kit vs the link you posted not sure if i can achieve the look like yours, i just don’t want it to sag from the back and be able to just fit some 285

[@teamoildrop]

Setting the 5100s to full 2.5" lift will in most cases be level... but putting anything in your bed, or time wearing down your rear leaf springs, can make it taller in the front @@Liinglingg

[@RATCHETHEAD]

If I put a 2 inch bilstein 5100 on just the front would that be OK or do I need rear struts and or a extra leaf spring or is it good as is?

[@sergemann5951]

Well done video. I thank you. Is the back identifical to the front?

[@teamoildrop]

@@sergemann5951 back is SIGNIFICANTLY easier! There’s a video for it on the channel. “Rear shocks” And thanks! 🍻

[@sergemann5951]

@@teamoildrop great! You're my hero.

[@teamoildrop]

@@sergemann5951 now you’re just flirtin’ 🍻

[@sergemann5951]

You had me at 2" lift!

[@spraggs]

great video, thanks. The final shot of your black sport, is that with just the 1.1 setting and only Bilsteins up front, not on the back?

[@teamoildrop]

@@spraggs thanks brother! The rears don’t lift, only serve as a quality shock. But yes, that’s with the front raised only.

[@FirstLast-pl7lc]

Did the height increase create any positive tire offset for the front? (Wheel pulled inward).

[@teamoildrop]

@@FirstLast-pl7lc at my height not noticeably so. I’m sure there are inevitably minimal differences.

[@jody7865]

You always have the best videos! Do you know: the Bilstein 5100 kit that comes with the OE springs already mounted on the shocks, are those springs the same length as stock? Or are they shorter/longer depending on lift height you select?

[@teamoildrop]

@@jody7865 thanks brother! Being OE original equipment they represent themselves as identical 1 for 1 swaps. They sell as a bit of an easy way to avoid having to decompress your springs and just do a swap.

[@jody7865]

@@teamoildrop this installation method you have here doesn’t involve any compressing or decompressing, seems much easier, and saves money on having to purchase new springs. Think I’m gonna go with this. I have a2023 trd OR. From what I’ve read it seems as if the number 3 setting should level me out, which is what I want, does that sound accurate in your opinion?

[@teamoildrop]

@@jody7865 a perfect level yes… but keep in mind any weight in the back will give you some sag unless you invest in sumo springs. Which I love those things. Also, there is spring decompression this way. Just done safely with a jack at a distance

[@jody7865]

@@teamoildrop does this lift setup require new upper control arms? Also, my truck has the sensor in the front grill, is this 1.25" lift height going to mess that up? I know with some lifts you have to change the grill so the sensor portion is changed.

[@teamoildrop]

@@jody7865 great questions. 1. No, these are tailored for factory UCAs… and 2. I don’t believe so…. But cannot say with certainty. If you raise the rear as well you should definitely be fine. But a front raise only… possible sensor tweaking required.

[@EP236-2]

Hi there, I followed this method and found myself in a pickle. Everything went smooth until I went to drop the LCA. The jack lowered the LCA a bit, but only so that the LCA was at about a 30-40 degree angle. I could not get the LCA to drop further. I confirmed that I followed every step and each bolt was loosened, and the top nut was removed. I made a stupid choice of removing the bottom strut bolt, hoping that would let it slide out, which in retrospect was probably quite dangerous. Had to call a mobile mechanic to come with spring tools and put everything back together. Any idea what would cause the LCA not to lower? I confirmed that the mounting bolts on the frame side were quite loose, and the bolts to the knuckle were removed.

[@teamoildrop]

@@EP236-2 it’s an unfortunate fact that the LCAs can sieze. It sounds like that’s exactly what happened in your case. This is not a fun DIY. I wish I could share a link but google “Tacoma lower control arm seized” 2nd gen info works as well.

[@MrTB321]

What setting should I use if I have a 1” tear block? I’m thinking 1.55”?

[@teamoildrop]

Depends on if you want the truck level or with some rake. Factory rake is 1in taller in the rear versus the front. If you have a 1in rear lift block then you've got 2in of rake in theory. So if you did 1.55in front, you'd still have .5in of rake. If you went to 2in in the front, you'd end up level front to rear. -Austin

[@matthewvanvelden5179]

Is anyone else having trouble loosening bolts on the LCA? One of the bolts just would not budge when I tried to loosen it. Any pointing are appreciated.

[@teamoildrop]

They're a pretty high torque figure so that isn't uncommon to have problems loosening them. Torque figure is 100ft lbs and obviously any corrosion or dirt/debris will make it worse. We recommend using a large breaker bar to break them loose or a high torque impact. You also don't need to fully drop the LCA, it just helps with space, you can just pry it down to release the shock assembly. -Austin

[@gorgon4061]

would replacing the stock to 5100 front only, level the front of the truck?

[@teamoildrop]

It definitely would. The rear do not add lift.

[@gorgon4061]

@@teamoildrop nice, thanks!

[@MrTB321]

Is there any difference in TRD SPORT vs TRD OFF ROAD springs? I have a sport, wondering if I should get TRD off road springs for this

[@teamoildrop]

The Offroad springs are a tad softer than the sport springs, but I personally would not worry about purchasing the TRD OR springs to install on the 5100s, they're designed to take all of the OEM Tacoma springs. -Austin

[@matthewcarino4392]

Very informative, thanks. Most likely going to go with a similar set up height but might as well change the rear shocks to 5100s as well, and install a clamshell bushing for the diff. At this height, do you think it would be necessary to install a diff and/or sway bar drop brackets as well?

[@teamoildrop]

Glad it helped The differential drop kits are generally not well reviewed. You might not need the bushing for the diff. Check your sway bar after the lift, it's not parallel to ground, I would install the drop brackets Greg the Editor

[@audi223]

So you only did the front shocks? Do you think my truck will still drive ok with 5100s in the front and stock trd sport shocks in the back?

[@teamoildrop]

@@audi223 just fine BUT adding the rears (cheaper) should happen eventually. SUPER easy to install rears.

[@audi223]

Makes sense. Appreciate it.

[@robertleemorrow7905]

I like your disclaimer at the end. You should unsubscribe from trucks all together if yours is INTENTIONALLY taller in the front!

[@teamoildrop]

Great minds 🧠