Toyota ENTRY-LEVEL Shock Comparison! Tacoma 4Runner Tundra FJ Cruiser GX 470 GX 460

In this video, we compare a few shock brands that we have installed, experienced, and recommend. These shocks are what we consider entry-level shocks and will make a great kit for someone on a budget or just looking for something slightly better than the factory shocks.
All these brands can be found at runnin4tacos.com/

[@jackprick9797]

Ready for the mid tier and top tier videos. Thanks for this great series!

[@SandyCats]

Excellent video. Can definitely adsorb Hugos knowledge all day long. Thanks for keeping it detailed!

[@TRUE_GR1T]

I just had the old man emu kit installed on my 15' access cab a month ago. Pretty happy with it so far, didn't get to push it too hard this season, will have to wait until spring as it snowed here this wee.

[@samsaraa2001]

great video guys, look forward to the rest of the videos in this series!!

[@jarrodnichols8111]

Thanks for this! I just bought a 92 Toyota Pickup, and while I’m familiar with suspension for race cars and street cars, the off-road brands and tuning are a new world. I’ll definitely give you guys a call to discuss some possible set-ups. I do wish you had put some prices ranges up for the different options here, that would’ve saved me some time researching.

[@AM-nw6nf]

Great video guys. Just the information I needed. I subscribed and I’m waiting for the next video. You’re in Denver even better. 👍🏻

[@Yeawell]

Great video! I started looking at options for 22 4Runner various forums, and social media groups, and yt videos. Great series bc it’s solid knowledge that a lot of ppl take for granted on picking the correct setup for their build. This pointed out what works for someone my not for someone else. Research before build so when the purchase is made you only cry once not twice bc you don’t like how it rides😂

[@BiggyMak]

Man ... even tho I been in this game for awhile, I learned a lot of stuff in this video ... Definitely thankful for the knowledge ...

[@ElevationEveryWeekend]

Really nice video guys! In the next year or so when the tires need replaced, I want to go up to a 33” skinny on my 2018 Tacoma. I don’t really want 2-3” of lift, but 1-1.5”. I run 32” tires now on stock TRD-OR suspension and it’s totally fine clearance-wise. I keep my truck modular and lightweight so that’s a factor too. Maybe those Fox shocks are the ticket, however I don’t want to level the truck only because when I have my rack/tent/gear in the bed I don’t want squat. Lots to think about for a future upgrade!

[@luisavina9147]

This is a great video. I’ll be on the lookout for the next 2

[@zdiver1]

Jeff Westcott sent me this email today. We are thrilled to announce that we have been selected to be featured at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas on Nov 1-4 2022. Toyota has invited us to be featured in this event and we couldn't be more honored!

[@BillyRay4280]

I got Bilstein 5100s on my 14’ Tacoma. Love this set guys! Ride quality much better than stock. Perfect for my daily driver; hunting in steep incline woods and hauling fire wood. I learned a lot from this video! You guys are very knowledgeable. Keep up the good work. Peace.

[@silvanicontreras5565]

I like this video. Well done. Looking forward to the rest of them 👌

[@briancharman2710]

Great explanation of the different products.

[@thechunkyhen]

Super educational video. Thanks for the info Hugo!

[@007diego2]

This video has been very helpful. Brand new Trd off-road that I want to upgrade the suspension with, but I don’t think I need performance shocks but something in between. Thank you!

[@CarlosSanchez-ed6dn]

Just bought 4Runner and anxious to get started but feeling super overwhelmed with so many options and information.

[@michaelcelis538]

Thanks for all the great info guys!!

[@ramzizaz]

Great video comparison! Can you please explain to people that a lift only adds clearance for larger tires when not offroad. For clearance off-road, the lift does not matter since the tire should be articulating thought it's full travel range unless different bump stops are used or limiting straps.

[@clashandpotatoes]

I wish this video existed before I bought my setup. I guess I'll just have to start over!

[@gdmaddog1]

Excellent video explaining the differences!

[@EatLotsOfCurry]

I drive mostly in town doing family errands and light hauling. Occasionally on longer trips. I don’t go off roading really, but like the idea of knowing if we had to get somewhere safe, we could. I also like the aggressive look and stance. Based on this use case, what all components would you recommend if I wanted something that is good quality? I have a 3rd Gen Tundra.

[@UltimateAnarchy]

I'm thinking about getting that Fox setup for my GX460. Thanks for this very informative video!

[@ams5339]

Great video.I definitely learned a lot. My question for your next video: what kind of a lift system I should get for my current stock 4Runner TRD offroad with DFG Offroad drawer system and 75 Lit. fridge, if I want to maintain the street ride quality, but also have a capable off-roader in wahboard and low-moderate trails without any rock crawling. BTW, living in Southern California. Thanks

[@AZOverland2017]

Dropping some great knowledge here!

[@PunkFace303]

I'm super excited for the next 2 videos. Been debating between a few different setups and can't wait to see an overview of the 6112s!

[@Ranger_k16]

Same. I'm on 5100's and was looking at upgrading to 6112/5160. However was told there isnt much difference from someone who had them, and is better to save for a higher level setup

[@johnnytorres277]

@@Ranger_k16 I love my 6112/5160's on and offroad. Granted they're not as good as high end Fox, Icon, or King, which cost twice as much, but you dont need those unless you want to drive very fast offroad. Here's a very short video of how mine perform going up a big dune. As you can see they didnt bottom out and after the landing dont keep bouncing up and down the way stock shocks do. They're dramatically better than the cheap, skinny crappy Hitachi shocks my Sport came with. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hX7WYYCpeJ5kZ5Y

[@Ranger_k16]

@@johnnytorres277 I think the main reason people say there isn't much difference is that they are both digressive valved. My 5100's are much better over stock and I don't bottom them out either and do about 60%+ offroad. My main complaint is over washboard roads, my rear end loses traction unless I'm going less than 10mph

[@Tanner731]

as a 6112 owner either stay in the 5100/ome/ironman price range or jump to fox/king/ads/radflo dont go halfway, you'll regret it.

[@ShockSurplus]

dont listen to anyone that hasn't actually ridden on them and can compare to the 5100 or alternative brands

[@LionRunner]

This is fantastic series. I bet this is going to help every one. I'm lucky to spend quite a lot of time with Hugo discussing lot of stuff. He really is a master in the industry. I could write a book about Hugo of the things he has teached me when I talk to him about mods.

[@carlossilviotube]

where do we find more videos of Hugo? great stuff

[@LionRunner]

@@carlossilviotube I really hope he do another suspension video.

[@thewadeoutdoors]

I really enjoyed this video and looking forward to learn more about Icon. I’ve always wanted a stage 1 icon lift and I finally got it. The only problem is, now that I have a little more knowledge after today, I don’t know if my setup is overkill for what I do or if I need to go up a couple stages. So I’m ready to take notes! 😅

[@ShockSurplus]

If you dont know that you'll need a beefy 2.5 race shock, then you probably dont. Lots of stellar 2.0 options like Eibach Protruck, the Bilstein 6112, Fox 2.0 - all of which can take a beating offroad if that's your style.

[@sodapops7]

Great series. I’m looking to upgrade my truck parts

[@nh-play6018]

Hugo you da the man.....man. So I’ve talked to Hugo and he is super knowledgeable. I have gone bilstein front and back for now but gonna do upgrade down the road so cmon already with the next series of videos. LOL😂, keep the great work that you guys are doing

[@jonbakerocbpro8802]

I have rc v3 3” in the front, v2 in the rear. Jba high castor Ucas, front differential spacer. Ome 2.75” Dakar heavy leaf springs and ome rear differential spacer. Went from a spacer lift and upgraded parts over time. Dialed setup right now.

[@Sw20boosted]

I went with Fox 2.0 shocks all around but the Fronts are IFP Shocks and I paired them with Old Man Emu Springs, Old Man Emu Control Arms and R4T add-a-leaf in the back. Gave me a amazing ride that I hoped for and far better than the stock TRD Sport with the right amount of lift I wanted to fit 33’s. Mostly a daily driver. Originally planned to go with Bilsteins but we’re on backorder. Worked out for the better for me.

[@houseofgraceworship]

Nice! Thinking of doing the same basically

[@MrKim-kv2vv]

What OME spring rate did you go with?

[@alexi7995]

Will you be discussing the Dobinsons IMS in the mid-tier vid?

[@kenpen21]

Great video. Very informative!

[@zmartnz4512]

As someone who is starting out this video id very informative! What model is the icon shocks in the video?

[@RNicknackpaddywhack]

As a mountain biker, linear is bad for jumping but good for comfort within its range of travel. Usually bottom Outs are really harsh. Not sure how this translates to vehicles.

[@christopherbishop6270]

wish you guys did 1st gen Tundra's, need suspension stuff for my 2005 Double cab

[@vaisuliafu3342]

I swear I’ve seen a video of Hugo doing lift suspension and wheels for a stock 4Runner but for the life of me I can’t find that video anymore

[@rubenoliver4979]

Are you guys going to do a video showing the different options for the first generation Toyota Sequoia?

[@mikeholbert1958]

Great video!

[@erich7863]

Have the old man emu medium load suspension kit on my 5th gen 4runner and think it great for the price. I have found it does great on higher speed stuff (40-50mph) but the rear is a tad bit stiff unloaded but nothing drastic. My only complaint is that they improve the paint finish on the shock as the paint is flaking after 3 winters.

[@Runnin4Tacos]

Yeah, OME is actually built for heavy loads. That is why it is less stiff when you are loaded.

[@702cooks13]

Nice reviews, leaning towards the Locked brand or Eibach stage 2 for my 5gen. Hopefully you will have the Eibach on the next vid, wanna hear your thoughts on those

[@ShockSurplus]

As someone who's ran Bilstein, Fox, Eibach, OME on the same vehicle. Eibach sits between Bilstein and Fox in terms of comfort and handling.

[@dmitryadamenko6518]

Running Eibach stage 2 (lifted front 2 and rear 2.5 inches) on gx470 for more than a year now. Enjoying forest roads, but on longer trips over wavy asphalt it can make my sea sick

[@The_dark_yota]

I’ve been on locked for over 2 years and loved them. Doing full long travel with their stuff now. Also had plenty of people switch from big names like icon and kings to locked they have preferred their locked kits more. Message me on ig if you have any questions.

[@hiklerzambrano4203]

So for 5100 what spring coils I can use if said don’t mix with OME coils spring ? Advise please thank you great video very informative

[@RuNutty]

3rd Gen 4Runner with 4600’s! The best replacement over OEM if your not doing anything crazy!

[@Sabale-dw5fd]

Installing a bumper with a winch and 35s what do you guys recommend? Thinking the old man emu with heavy duty 750 springs . What do you think ? For a tundra btw thanks 🙏

[@mikehamm3570]

Can't wait for the next 2! What about the rough country vertex ( I know they are rough country) but they are adjustable with remote resi seem okish can't really find to much about them.

[@electricstartclint]

Chinese junk.

[@markamparan7918]

I run rough country and love them for the price. Not rock crawling. A good starter shock in my opinion.

[@timmyadam3542]

Everywhere seems to suggest ome springs on 5100s. You say no to that, could u explain further.. factory replacement shock, similar spring rate spring seems like a go. I'd like 5100s and 885s for my taco

[@dadgarage7966]

Based on Bilstein's literature, the ratio of the front ride hide increase is a little more than 2:1. For every unit increase in strut length, there's a little more than 2X that at the rotor hub. On the 5100 for example, the first ring groove is 10 mm more = 0.85" = 21.8 mm front ride height increase.

[@PatrickRich]

Im interested in this comparison. I've had TJM and I am currently Running ICON VS 2.0 on my 80 series...and I've gotta be honest, I have had nothing but trouble with my ICONS. I had them rebuilt once and have had 6 rear shocks on the back in 2 years trying to solve leaking issues.

[@ShockSurplus]

ouch! yeah that's rough, especially on a 2.0!

[@jefferylorance7988]

Great video ..very good information…

[@Trillex82]

very well done video

[@Do-UR-Research2749]

Where would you place the Tacomas TRD Pro FOX shocks on your list?

[@timrepairs]

Where are the other videos ??? I checked your whole yt page on the higher performance shocks and did not find it .

[@jeffreybateham9527]

Concerning the dobisons shock... does using these on a 2002 4rnr mean I can get rid of the coils up front? Or am I still putting these inside the coil

[@jameshayes8825]

I use Ironman 4x4 stage 1 nitro gas kit + IM 4x4 UCAs, thoughts ?

[@tomedmondson5236]

I’m going to add a snow plow on my ‘06 Toyota tundra. It has a 3” difference from rear to front and I was considering a level kit before we needed the plow. Should I consider changing out the springs if I change out shocks and a level kit?

[@Runnin4Tacos]

Yes, I would do springs instead of spacers.

[@faster73357]

If I have a two inch level kit installed on my sierra can I leave the Bilstein front shock set to zero and leave the level kit in.

[@coztod]

Well presented

[@rksghost620]

Good video 👍

[@pennmikael]

How’s the eibach pro truck? Also can you have 0” lift with Ironman FCP?

[@project_poor_runner]

Team Dobinson’s IMS here!

[@victoryengineer]

Several good options there but why no mention of the Eibach systems? My 4Runner has the Pro Truck 2R and it's a really good system that suits my needs. I've had others on my 4Runners and so far I prefer the Eibach the most.

[@Runnin4Tacos]

We actually think that kit is good as well. At the time, I am not sure if the Pro kit were available yet. I will actually put that on the list for another video. Thank you for bringing that up!

[@chadderr5998]

I know you touched on this point, but why are you not a fan of using OME 885 on the front 5100’s? I’m only looking for 1-1.5” and I have heard re-using the OEM springs was a bad idea.

[@spencerfelt2093]

I run 5100s paired with OME 885s. For my 2006 v6 4runner with 4wd. They run very stiff. You’re going to want at least 80 lbs if added weight on the front if you don’t want it to be stiff af.

[@zztuber]

Im getting wheel hop with my 2021 tundra.. if i hit a series of bumps at 50 mph & over i can easily lose control. what shock will keep my tires on the road

[@ramoncaraballo4655]

I have a 2007 chevy colorado - 2.9 eng. small pickup truck ( standard truck). What type of shack should I use in my truck- 4600 or 5600 - Bilstein.

[@zjw5]

I bought bilstein 4600s for my 03 Sequoia 4x4 and the old springs don't fit on the bottom hat. Now I have no idea what to do. Do I send these back or how do I find springs that will fit without lifting it?

[@grohu]

what do you thing about Tough Dog suspension with regulation?

[@amboytruckerusa9714]

Just got 2023 toyota 4runner and i want to upgrade to use on road and offroad?thanks

[@davesantimaw5413]

What are your thoughts on Toytec?

[@HO-be9fy]

hi, which shock observers you recommend for Ford Explorer 2015? from FOX or any other 3rd party.

[@Jinxo01]

did the mid tier vid ever come out ?

[@renaldferguson7788]

hello /i need to macth up shocks and springs for my Audi 2008 allroad quattro a6 station wagon .700 pounds per square inch or there abouts a nd a better psi shocks for loads front and rare recomdations urgent .im replacing air suspenion

[@MrSeafoo]

If you get 2.5 inch lift on Bilstein 5100s with stock springs, why do so many ppl switch to 5100s + OME 2887 or 2888? Good video, perfect timing as I'm trying to decide.

[@Joe-np8vk]

They use diff springs because they are longer and you get lift without raising the perch setting

[@TedEischeid1960]

With the stock springs you need a raised circlip on the 5100s which preloads your spring, impacting travel. With 5100 + OME you do not use a raised circlip, the spring does the lifting without preload, maintaining full suspension travel and ride.

[@ivan199120]

⁠@@TedEischeid1960for a 3rd gen Tacoma Bilstein advertises a lift of 0-2”. I’m assuming that’s based on the stock coil spring limits? So if I wanted a 2.5 lift do I add a coil spring thats 2.5” and pair it with the Bilstein set on the 0 setting circlip?

[@TheCajunGaijin]

Are y'all still going to make the other two videos on the mid tier or high tier shocks?

[@jasonhigginbotham5318]

I had the same question what about non entry level something that can take some hard abuse

[@ahmadabdullah5940]

Hey Guys, What about Dobinsons IMS for GX460 ?

[@TundraBreaks]

Can Hugo speak about Rough Country?

[@rupertgumban9251]

What about Eibach? Thanks

[@Relaxmusicme]

What about sequoia second gen?

[@RomanRaider]

Couldn’t find the video about the next level of shocks, can someone share the link please?

[@Naganooch10]

I have a 22' TRD Off Road 4 Runner and I'm interested in lifting it ~ 2.75" front and ~1" rear but Toyota stated that I'd have issues with the sensors and that I would need them re-calibrated or disabled. I've looked at some forums and it is hit-and-miss with the issues so I'm wondering if you guys advise against lifting my 4 Runner? The main reason I'd like to lift it is because I'm not a fan of the "plush" suspension and nose diving when I've had to brake hard so I figured that if I'm changing the springs then I might as well lift it while it's on the rack. Comments, concerns, complaints?

[@TedEischeid1960]

You’ll just need a “zero point calibration “ done after you lift. Google it, it’s something you can do yourself with a paper clip. I have a 2015 4Runner Trail with Bilstein 5100s, 2”Icon lift springs on back, and OME 2884 2” lift springs on front.

[@aznmi3n6481]

So I bought the 5100, with spring 2-3” lift. So you telling me I have to compress the spring and and move it up to the top to get a 3” lift? So I be losing the ride Quality?

[@techsocial626]

For everyone who has or had 5160’s, what’s your experience been like with them? A few years ago, I had a reputable garage discourage them because they leaked.

[@stacksmasher]

I have been thrashing on mine all Summer and they held up to I would say they are good!

[@Joe-np8vk]

Have a set paired with 6112’s and they have been great. 2 years and many trials

[@topsecretmx5142]

I just sold my Tacoma that had 30k miles on a set no leaks.

[@ShockSurplus]

there was grumbling a while ago with the 5160s because they would leak from the reservoir hose fitting, that's since been cleaned up and addressed by Bilstein

[@BC_Hunter]

Would the 5100’s be good for towing?

[@TheBEAST-ej7oo]

Amazing video, for a 4runner 4th gen to have just 2” front and 1” or 1.5” in rear and have a comfort ride without adding weight or off-road, which one would be a good choice?

[@Runnin4Tacos]

I would go for a Bilstein kit.

[@TheBEAST-ej7oo]

@@Runnin4Tacos thanks bro just what I was thinking, just to be on the same page that would be with OME front coil 2284 and rear 2895E or can be combined with a better one? Thanks!

[@spencerfelt2093]

@@TheBEAST-ej7ooI’m currently running 5100s with 885s up front with 896s in the rear. I’m going to change it up for your setup. Just thought I’d say that. This was with added weight of 100 lbs up front and 200 in the rear. I’m going back to stock weight

[@TheBEAST-ej7oo]

@@spencerfelt2093amazing bro hope it will suits you better

[@dntfakethefunk]

I have a question, what is your opinion on the maximum lift before a needle bearing replacement? I have a stock OR Tacoma and I want to throw a lift on, but I’m worried about the needle bearing issue. Thanks.

[@alexs825]

It’ll break lift or no lift eventually. It’s a cheap upgrade. I wouldn’t worry about it

[@henrent]

Did Hugo used to work at Toytec? I think I spoke with him there a few years ago.

[@Runnin4Tacos]

Yes he did lol

[@Machomanrandyaverage]

When will the next one come out? I

[@jsprite123]

What would be recommended for a 5th gen 4Runner, no lifting, with stock tires, just to eliminate the nose dive when breaking?

[@4Runner_Fanatic]

I also have a 5th gen and have read that the Bilstein 5100s help a lot with nose dive. I plan on installing them on mine.

[@3GFinn]

When will you guys be doing a video on mid and top tier?

[@Runnin4Tacos]

Hopefully soon. We have been very busy.

[@3GFinn]

@@Runnin4Tacos all good bros, really enjoyed this series! I look forward to it.

[@stevesimmons4384]

So I know nothing about shocks . I have a 2007 FJ and I want a smooth ride . I’m running bigger tires but no lift and want street and highway smoothest ride . What should I get ? Never off road .

[@RealeaD]

Will 2 inch lift in the front and 1 inch in the rear require longer sway bar links? Can't find definitive info. Shock guides and videos are not talking about it. thanks

[@Runnin4Tacos]

You will not need longer sway bar links.

[@bigsmoke279]

I’m interested in getting the Bilstein 5100s or the Eibach pro kit stage 1. Do we need to add an add a leaf to the back or a block? What is the pro and con of adding it to the back? Is it to keep the rake or to level it out once we lift the front?

[@Runnin4Tacos]

When doing a lift kit on a Tacoma, I highly recommend doing an add-a-leaf or even a full-leaf pack. If you plan on adding weight like bumpers, racks, RTT etc... I would definely do a full leaf pack to accommodate the weight.

[@bigsmoke279]

@@Runnin4Tacos thanks! I’ll pick up and add a leaf just in case I ever add extra weight

[@sumovanchy7173]

I know this video is a couple month old with the 3 an 2 or 2 an 1 lift will you have to do any other mechanical work for vibration or anything like that ? 21 Tacoma besides replacing the UCA

[@Runnin4Tacos]

When you go higher than 2 inches, We recommend you do aftermarket UCA's as well for better alignment and geometry of the truck.

[@rosebowboutique4184]

Where are you guys located?

[@charlesburdette7497]

Hey looking for a 1 to 2 in lift on the back 2014 Tacoma already put 2 in on the front handle wait what would you recommend

[@Runnin4Tacos]

For the rear of the Tacoma, you will need to do a leaf pack as well, especially if you are needing it for weight. It depends how much weight, You can do an add-a-leaf or a full leaf pack upgrade.

[@ryananderson6321]

Surprised no ironman foam cell shocks...

[@user-qg9zr5xs4u]

Can you use the Old Man Emu with stock springs and maintain original height?

[@Runnin4Tacos]

Yes, But I don't see the purpose of that.

[@project_poor_runner]

16:52 Is everyone okay? 😂

[@MrGalanolefkos]

Hello guys, sorry I am a little confused. I have a 2023 tundra SR5 and wanted to install the Westcott Design lift kit. 3" in front and 1" in back. I do want to change the shocks for a smooth ride and not necessarily a stiff one. Which one would you recommend?

[@Runnin4Tacos]

So the Westcott kit is different from the other lift kits. Westcott uses a collar along with your OEM suspension. So you are not replacing the shock. If you want to go with a lift kit that changes the shock then you will not need the Westcott kit.

[@maax9032]

Where are you guys located,I really want to come and check it out

[@Runnin4Tacos]

We are located in Denver Colorado!