Very helpful: the way you edited it. Given the subtlety of the differences between stock and Bilstein, being able to see them side-by-side or bottom/top simultaneously told a very powerful story. Thank you.
Great comparison video. Like the slow motion, you can see the small differences. For someone that is learning about off road , one of the better suspension walk throughs Ive seen.
Truly Appreciate the work you put into this, just a humerous note production wise, from :40 to 1:00ish and again around 8:00 when you're behind the table it kinda looks like a local militia recruiting tape :) .... just me?
Just out of curiosity what did u pay for the install? I’m in San Francisco being quoted $6800 for the 5100 + install + new wheels and tires + install (gonna go from 265 to 285 tires) seems pricey!
@@DBCoffroad No .. what I meant is westcott builds a better Collar that the bilstein has in that box .. you know the collar that screws on for that 5100 ..
Might be too late to comment and get a response, but I'll give it a shot. Would this look kind of goofy installing this and leaving the stock sized tires? Trying not to kill gas mileage because this is going to be a daily driver for my college age daughter. Definitely want to firm up the ride, though. As you know, it's even too soft for the road! Are there any front diff CV boot issues with a lift this short? My old 3rd gen definitely had CV boot reliability issues even with just a 2.5 to 3 inch lift.
I've upgraded my stock Xterra from Bilstein 4600 to 5100. Ride quality is definitely better, especially hitting the imperfection or bumps at a speed. compression and rebound are much more controlled.
Hello, do you think that the blistein 5100 improve driving for someone who drives 60% on asphalt and 40% on dirt and stone roads of low difficulty, thanks!
They are an improvement. But it’s very slight. The biggest thing for the 5100s is probably the ride height in the front. The Bilstein 6112 get good reviews for even better ride improvement. Maybe look into those?
I have a 2016 4Runner and a 2011 Jeep grand Cherokee. I like them both for different reasons. Improving / firming up the handling of the 4Runner would be an equalizer. I’m hoping going to the 5100s will do the job
Yeah, Covid has really jacked up Fox's production schedule for their higher end off-road products. Took eight months to get just a set of Fox 2.0 Factory shocks that I'd ordered back in June 2021.
@@DBCoffroad Yeah. I think the Performance series has taken over most of the production. The "Factory" type used to be the only 2.0s they made for many years. I wanted them because they're super easy to depressurize/repressurize and take apart for revalving, etc.
What right height did you select to make the truck level in the front? I just got the same struts for my 4Runner and I don’t want to Have it look like it’s popping a wheelie.
Great video. It helps to answer some of my questions. I do have another one for you. I read one of your responses to another commenter that you feel the 6112’s offer an overall firmer better handling ride. Does that include on road as well? I was thinking about upgrading my stock shocks thought maybe I should just skip to the 6112’s and save myself another upgrade in the near future. I want to keep myself open to the possibility of tackling rougher terrain.
I think the 6112s would be the best entry if you are willing to spend the money. Here’s a good review: trail4runner.com/2019/02/09/bilstein-5160-complete-guide-review/ The 6112s would give you more room for the rougher terrain. Thanks for the question!
@@DBCoffroad Last question I promise. Looks like you have the TRD skid plate. Did you have to use longer bolts for it once you added the Fox lift? Thanks!
@@warweaponx6629 No worries. I'll answer all the questions you have. Yea the Fox kit comes with a set of hardware with longer bolts and skid plate spacers to clear the TRD Skid plate. The bad thing is they don't give you instructions on how it's all supposed to work. You just have to figure it out yourself. I also don't like the spacers because the TRD Skid is now an inch lower than the rest of the skids I bought. I'm not sure if there is a way around it though because once you move the sway bar forward and down to clear the Foxes, the sway bar now has to clear the Radiator support brackets which the skid bolts to. I have seen a couple aftermarket skids (Maybe CBI or C4) that looks like they eliminate the factory radiator supports and use the skid itself as a support. If it did it all over, I would trash the TRD skid and buy a complete package from CBI or C4. I have the RCI Skids after the TRD Skid, but they don't offer as much coverage underneath as CBI or C4. AND, Just to change the oil you have to drop the TRD skid every time which is a pain in the butt. You also run the risk of cross threading the bolts each time you put it back on, because they don't go back in so easily. Hope this helps. 🤘🏻
few yrs ago I chose this route using factory front springs and cornfed spacers in the rear with the factory springs again. I set the clip at the 3rd groove (I think) to complement the rear spacer lift. I did not like the harshness of the preloaded front springs and within a couple months yanked that setup out. currently i have Robinsons springs from and rear (1"r and 1.75"f approx) with the clip on the lowest groove. zero body roll, smooth even travel, zero nose dive and no need for expensive UCA due to to much angle from excessive lift. Zero buyers remorse. preloading for me on stock coils was not my cup of tea
Great video thank you. I’m trying to decide what to do wit my stock 4Runner. Does it add any significant ground clearance to the bottom of the vehicle?
The 2.5” lift would raise the belly/skids up off the ground in the front a little more. maybe 1-2” depending where you measure. If you added larger tires you could 0.5”-1” more as well. The front approach angle will be a little better. If you are going to Offroad then it’s better.
Your setup sounds good for Offroad. Only one way to find out! Go take it Offroad! The Bilstein 5100 are a good beginner shock to get used to off-roading. I like them, I just drive harder and faster than they were really meant for. Try it out and let me know what you think!
Maybe it’s already been mentioned in the previous comments but you don’t have to use the factory 4Runner springs. I run 2.5 inch Eibach lift springs with the perch set to 0.
You are right. The next reasonable step would have been to just upgrade to a higher spring rate with the Bilstein 5100s. I just decided to skip steps 2-9 and go from 1 straight to 10.
It’s just a little bit stiffer on the road. Which I think makes it better. It still rides over potholes better than stock. I have 33” tires which helps too though.
Old Man Emu makes some coils that will fit the 5100s: www.bilsteinlifts.com/shop/toyota-4runner/03-09-4runner/03-09-4runner-front-lifts-coilovers/front-ome-coils-for-07-14-toyota-fj-cruiser-03-18-4runner/ Another option is from Toytec Lifts: www.toyteclifts.com/521600-kit-toytec-3-lift-front-coil-spring-kit.html
I needed to trim 1/2”-1” from the front of the bumper closest to the tire and readjust the inner fender liner. It’s super minimal and you can’t tell it’s not factory. Trail4Runner.com has really good write ups how to do it. I don’t have KDSS on my 4Runner.
Stock shocks/struts lasted 230,000 miles, and were still adequate. I decided to replace them when doing front end overhaul - again, nothing was wrong with any of the suspension components but I lifted it a bit and installed AM UCA's to accommodate lift and to get caster withing specs. One bilstein strut blew up in less than a year of on-road driving. Their warranty is not worth the paper it's written on - the shock is $90, they demand photos (that I provided) but they also want me to send the bad part to them on my dime AND pay for a return replacement shipping if (IF!!!) they (THEY) find it defective which costs you $50. Again, it's the best case-scenario providing they DO find it defective. Otherwise, you are out of shipping cost AND have no strut. Sweet deal. NOT! It might be "german engineering" but it's mexican manufacturing and american "business attitude" towards customers.
@@DBCoffroad Not yet - it's an on-going thing, I just noticed the leak and completed communication with bilstein via the seller. So far, nothing worked nearly as well as OEM (in case of Toyota, of course), and all overblown AM "updates" are rarely anything but marketing scam. I take that back - RCI skid plates are definitely superior to Toyota's joke.
Bilstein has 6112's for front and 5100 series with remote resivour for rears too... so maybe that would have been better off the get go for your driving than the 5100 fronts and regular rears. I do prefer the digressive shocks myself but thats personal pref i know. Good compares/before-afters !
Yes that would have been the logical next step. And there are stronger coil options available for the 5100 Fronts. I just drive too hard and decided to skip a few steps all the way to Fox. I’m interested how the Fox setup works. Will be an upcoming video.
@@DBCoffroad I installed the Bilstein 6112 on my 2021 Tacoma TRD 4X4 ver the Fox shocks mainly because the Bilsteins will last much longer before a rebuild is necessary. Have a pair of Bilstein 5100 for the rear but still using the original Bilstein 4600 in the rear. Done some serious off roading and very pleased with the Bilstein 6112 shocks.
There are 4 different clip settings. I set mine at the highest so it would lift it 2.5”. The problem is after it settled it was more like 2.25”. Then after adding weight it’s somewhere around 1.5”-2”. The stock front springs that you reuse are just too soft.
I've been researching and there are 4runner owners stating that with the Bilsteins 5100, the driver side is a little lower on the .85 setting. Did u measure both sides or notice any height differences ? Thx
Yes the “4Runner lean” is present. The drivers side is about .5” lower than the passenger side. There isn’t really anyway to compensate for that unless you get adjustable coil overs (with threaded preload adjustment) or add a small shim above the drivers side shock.
@@kota11334 it’s with any lift really. The 4Runner just has the battery and gas tank as well as the driver on the drivers side. All the extra weigh creates the “4Runner lean”. The coils with the 6112 would be a great upgrade from the softer stock coils. You will probably still have a slight lean on the drivers side though. From my research most people add a .25” shim on the drivers side of it bothers you at all.
I think the 5100s are a mild upgrade in every way over stock. They do stiffen up the on road feel a little. I agree that the floating feeling is very annoying. If I didn't purchase Fox shocks, I would have upgraded the 5100s with a heavier front spring like these: www.toyteclifts.com/521600-kit-toytec-3-lift-front-coil-spring-kit.html or www.bilsteinlifts.com/shop/toyota-4runner/03-09-4runner/03-09-4runner-front-lifts-coilovers/front-ome-coils-for-07-14-toyota-fj-cruiser-03-18-4runner/
I did the 5100s on my '21. Immediately noticed less dive and better overall on-road handling which is what I was shooting for. I only did the leveling lift (second groove) which lifts the front
Did you do anything to the back at that point ? About to buy a 4r and trying to plan. I’m in the same boat as you in terms of use. Test drove one and the nose dive feels quite dramatic.
I got the Kenda Klever RT. I watched a @donutmedia video on their Hi Low Trucks. The Kendas were only $200 a tire compared to everything else near or over $300. I think they are great. I’d buy them again.
I lifted my '18 4Runner on the 2nd setting (.85"). I'm not happy with it. You feel every small bump and stripe on the road. I think a whole new set of springs would be better than re-useing the factory ones. Not really sure. Anyone have any ideas?
A new set of springs will mostly likely make it stiffer. The stock springs are already pretty soft. The Bilsteins are digressive valving too. So they tend to initially be stiff and soften as you cycle the suspension more. What kind of tires do you have?
@@DBCoffroad my tires are C rated. I’m wondering if there’s a better option of shocks/springs that give a better road feel quality. My wife hates it. I figured the 2nd setting of the 5100’s would’ve been smoother
I don't know that there is really any benefit to lifting over 2.5" if you want the suspension to cycle properly. Really the only reason to lift higher than that is to try and get larger tires, but then you are limiting you suspension travel.
I’m not sure that you can. Maybe get OME front springs. And then strut shims for above the shocks. Anything above 2.5” is usually for a threaded preload adjuster style shock, like a coil over.
I hear about the 4runner nose dive on braking, but I haven't really noticed a problem with mine. I suspect that may have something to do with mine being equipped with KDSS. Is yours KDSS?
@@DBCoffroad I don't have a lot to compare to, but I am pretty happy with my 5100s. I have to agree that the ride is similar to stock, just allowing a lift. When I air down by BFG KO2s a little, the ride on rough trails is great. I haven't done any high speed desert running, and I expect the 5100s would not handle that nearly as well as remote reservoir Kings or Fox shocks, but for my purposes the 5100s have done just what I wanted them to.
Great video. Quick question, did you adapt the ball joints (Upper and Lower)? normally they tend to work forced when the car is lifted, the geometry of the pieces changes because of this. I'm about to do the same, but I was wondering if we need to do something extra to avoid the ball joints work forced. Thanks again for this amazing video!!!!
@@DBCoffroad Sorry if my question was not good enough. I'm talking about this: th-cam.com/video/g7lkotQ872E/w-d-xo.html Please let me know your thoughts. Regards!!!!
@@alexvar1 For the Bilstein lift I did not buy new upper control arms. However, I think it would be a good idea. At full droop travel, the stock upper control arms don't have enough clearance and actually hit slightly on the front coil spring. I purchased the Icon Delta Joint UCA's with the Fox Suspension that I will be installing soon. The video you sent me was good. SPC Makes good products for articulation. Here's another video for some more UCA information: th-cam.com/video/-HWA3Bqd4bQ/w-d-xo.html
Awesome presentation of stock verses Bilstein's suspension. Liked the way you did the split screen for comparison 💪💯💪💯💪. New Subscriber & 👍👍👍 1999 4runner 2RWD stock suspension thinking of doing the Bilstein's 5100 upgrade but my question is I do city driving & lots of Highway driving, do you think it will make my vehicle to harsh of a ride? Once again Thank You for the Awesome Video please keep them coming. P.S. I'm a Heavy Chevy Fan💪👍💪👍💪👍💯💯💯
Thank you. I appreciate the comment! To answer your question - the Bilstein 5100 make the ride better on the road. Overall the 5100s are an improvement over stock in just about every way. I thought the stock suspension was a little soft on the road. Hope this helps.
You will notice a slight increase in firmness over the stock, but that's not saying much. The stock suspenders are filled with jello, like something out of a 70's Cadillac. The handling and brake dive improvement is waaaaay worth any little bit of extra firmness. I'm assuming you would have bought a Buick if you wanted a marshmallow ride ;) .
All this means nothing if you you don't have KDSS when it comes to on road performance. The nose dice is very evident when a 4runner doesn't have kdss or the xreas
@@DBCoffroad me too brother. It makes a drastic difference. It'd a dream to drive when you have kdss with the trd pro shock. The best are the xreas but it's not on trd model. It levels out the truck on turns. So much so that you place your wallet on the dash and it wo t slide around on turns.
Kdss has nothing to do with nose dive. It's a hydraulically actuated sway bar that affects body roll in turns.The stiffness of shocks affects nose dive
I dont get it, you review an entry level Bilstein, you then say it's not enough so you wouldn't recommend the Bilstein lift kit as if they have only one option and then show a Fox 2.5 as if the base level Bilstein should have been comparable to that. Truth be told the Bilstein 8112 internal bypass is far superior to that Fox 2.5 without the need for valve tuning the way the Fox will need to truly perform where as the Bilstein 8112s are vehicle specific tuned. This is a false recommendation. Bilstein 8112s for the win!
I skipped several steps in the Bilstein line. It was just what I had available to compare. The next best step would be the 6112s if you don't like the 5100s.
Very helpful: the way you edited it. Given the subtlety of the differences between stock and Bilstein, being able to see them side-by-side or bottom/top simultaneously told a very powerful story. Thank you.
Hey thank you! Glad it was helpful
Actually one of the best comparisons I’ve seen
Thank you!
This was a much more helpful video!! Can’t believe I had to a row this far to see an actually side by side review !! GREAT WORK!!
Glad it was helpful! Thank you!
Great comparison video. Like the slow motion, you can see the small differences. For someone that is learning about off road , one of the better suspension walk throughs Ive seen.
Thanks! 👍
I ended up getting a full Fox TRD setup from a 2024 4Runner TRD off road for my 4th gen and I’m very happy with that setup
That’s awesome. Glad that worked out for you. 🤘🏻
This is the best comparison vid available online. Thanks for sharing your passion.
I appreciate that!
I had these on my 4th gen and now I have these on my 5th gen, I love 5100's!! I recommend getting these, they're better than stock!
Definitely. Glad you like them!
What setting did you guys set the clips at to compensate for the the left lean?
@@ChristopherSmith-rn4wdI’m set at first clip setting which is just under an inch. I’m not getting any lean as far as I can tell
Truly Appreciate the work you put into this, just a humerous note production wise, from :40 to 1:00ish and again around 8:00 when you're behind the table it kinda looks like a local militia recruiting tape :) .... just me?
Good to know. I appreciate the feedback. In jest…. You don’t want to be part of the Toyota Militia?
@@DBCoffroad I'm fully in, just bought a '22 4R
That nose dive is crazy in stock. I’m getting this lift kit installed next week, thanks for the vid 🤙🏻
Thanks for watching!
Just out of curiosity what did u pay for the install? I’m in San Francisco being quoted $6800 for the 5100 + install + new wheels and tires + install (gonna go from 265 to 285 tires) seems pricey!
There is a noticeable difference. Rebounds better and adds the clearance . Thanks for this video
You’re welcome!
Thank you for taking the time to make this video. Much a appreciated. I can tell the difference. And I subscribed
Thanks for watching and the subscribe!
Great informational video I like the before and after videos comparing them
Thanks!
Fantastic job filming and editing. Thank you
Thank you!
Great comparison vid! I’m also rockin 5100’s on all 4 corners. Interested to see your next video comparing the bilsteins to the fox 2.5’s
Thanks!
i put the Bilstein 5100 on my 2016 trail, and I love them. really good comparison.
Thanks!
Wow xcellant comparison vid .. very good !! Looks like bilsteins barely beats stock
Thanks for the feedback. The 5100s are still better than a spacer life though. 🤘🏻
@@DBCoffroad No .. what I meant is westcott builds a better Collar that the bilstein has in that box .. you know the collar that screws on for that 5100 ..
Might be too late to comment and get a response, but I'll give it a shot. Would this look kind of goofy installing this and leaving the stock sized tires? Trying not to kill gas mileage because this is going to be a daily driver for my college age daughter. Definitely want to firm up the ride, though. As you know, it's even too soft for the road! Are there any front diff CV boot issues with a lift this short? My old 3rd gen definitely had CV boot reliability issues even with just a 2.5 to 3 inch lift.
I've upgraded my stock Xterra from Bilstein 4600 to 5100. Ride quality is definitely better, especially hitting the imperfection or bumps at a speed. compression and rebound are much more controlled.
That’s good to hear there is an improvement just between those two shocks of the same brand. Thanks for the comment!
Good video, I enjoyed the side by side comparison and the editing.
Thank you!
With the extra weight, I'm wondering why you didn't go with the 6112 in front and 5160 in the rear.
I could have. That would have been the next logical step. I just decided to go all out with how hard I drive. Just skipped some steps.
Solid video dude🤘🏼
Get yourself a cohost. I know another guy with a similar 4Runner
7:00 Those tires aren't 265s, right? Are those 285s?
Correct 285s
Very honest and informative video, thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Great job man I'd say the bilsteins are 10 percent stiffer esp with the break dive part
Thanks! I agree
Hello, do you think that the blistein 5100 improve driving for someone who drives 60% on asphalt and 40% on dirt and stone roads of low difficulty, thanks!
They are an improvement. But it’s very slight. The biggest thing for the 5100s is probably the ride height in the front. The Bilstein 6112 get good reviews for even better ride improvement. Maybe look into those?
I have a 2016 4Runner and a 2011 Jeep grand Cherokee. I like them both for different reasons. Improving / firming up the handling of the 4Runner would be an equalizer. I’m hoping going to the 5100s will do the job
Have you looked into the 6112s? I think they would be a little better if you are trying to firm up the ride.
@@DBCoffroadI’ll look into them. Thanks for the tip!
Yeah, Covid has really jacked up Fox's production schedule for their higher end off-road products. Took eight months to get just a set of Fox 2.0 Factory shocks that I'd ordered back in June 2021.
Dang that took longer than my order.
@@DBCoffroad Yeah. I think the Performance series has taken over most of the production. The "Factory" type used to be the only 2.0s they made for many years. I wanted them because they're super easy to depressurize/repressurize and take apart for revalving, etc.
For the front suspension does the black plastic part need to be on?
No. It is just a dust shield. I left it off when I installed the coils. Thanks for watching!
@@DBCoffroad thank you for the reply boss!!
what was the before and after rear height?
You know I didn’t think to measure that. Most people are concerned with the front. I’ll have to keep it in mind in the future
what to upgrade my did not like how it handles on the dips it all over the place on movement but I have 2 w.d and I like how you did your video
Thank you!
Excellent video, loved the comparison. What ride height setting are you running in the front?
The highest lift collar ring. I think it's 2.25" or 2.75"
What right height did you select to make the truck level in the front? I just got the same struts for my 4Runner and I don’t want to Have it look like it’s popping a wheelie.
Top clip on the front shocks and 1.5" rear coil lift.
Great video. It helps to answer some of my questions. I do have another one for you. I read one of your responses to another commenter that you feel the 6112’s offer an overall firmer better handling ride. Does that include on road as well? I was thinking about upgrading my stock shocks thought maybe I should just skip to the 6112’s and save myself another upgrade in the near future. I want to keep myself open to the possibility of tackling rougher terrain.
I think the 6112s would be the best entry if you are willing to spend the money.
Here’s a good review: trail4runner.com/2019/02/09/bilstein-5160-complete-guide-review/
The 6112s would give you more room for the rougher terrain. Thanks for the question!
@@DBCoffroad Thanks for the heads up. I’ll check the link out. 🤙
@@DBCoffroad that article was fantastic. Thanks for the information.
@@007diego2 Glad it was helpful!
Great video. Did you have to change the UCA? Or lower the sway bar at all?
Not with the Bilstein 5100s. I ended up switching to Fox 2.5s and you have to do both for the Foxes.
@@DBCoffroad Thanks. Appreciate the help.
@@DBCoffroad Last question I promise. Looks like you have the TRD skid plate. Did you have to use longer bolts for it once you added the Fox lift? Thanks!
@@warweaponx6629 No worries. I'll answer all the questions you have.
Yea the Fox kit comes with a set of hardware with longer bolts and skid plate spacers to clear the TRD Skid plate. The bad thing is they don't give you instructions on how it's all supposed to work. You just have to figure it out yourself. I also don't like the spacers because the TRD Skid is now an inch lower than the rest of the skids I bought. I'm not sure if there is a way around it though because once you move the sway bar forward and down to clear the Foxes, the sway bar now has to clear the Radiator support brackets which the skid bolts to. I have seen a couple aftermarket skids (Maybe CBI or C4) that looks like they eliminate the factory radiator supports and use the skid itself as a support.
If it did it all over, I would trash the TRD skid and buy a complete package from CBI or C4. I have the RCI Skids after the TRD Skid, but they don't offer as much coverage underneath as CBI or C4. AND, Just to change the oil you have to drop the TRD skid every time which is a pain in the butt. You also run the risk of cross threading the bolts each time you put it back on, because they don't go back in so easily.
Hope this helps. 🤘🏻
What size tires did you add halfway through this video? 275 or 285?
285/70R17. About a 32.5”ish
few yrs ago I chose this route using factory front springs and cornfed spacers in the rear with the factory springs again. I set the clip at the 3rd groove (I think) to complement the rear spacer lift.
I did not like the harshness of the preloaded front springs and within a couple months yanked that setup out.
currently i have Robinsons springs from and rear (1"r and 1.75"f approx) with the clip on the lowest groove.
zero body roll, smooth even travel, zero nose dive and no need for expensive UCA due to to much angle from excessive lift.
Zero buyers remorse. preloading for me on stock coils was not my cup of tea
That’s interesting. I didn’t notice any harshness with the factory springs on the 5100s. They were still pretty soft. I wonder what was different.
Great video thank you. I’m trying to decide what to do wit my stock 4Runner. Does it add any significant ground clearance to the bottom of the vehicle?
The 2.5” lift would raise the belly/skids up off the ground in the front a little more. maybe 1-2” depending where you measure. If you added larger tires you could 0.5”-1” more as well. The front approach angle will be a little better. If you are going to Offroad then it’s better.
I have blistein 5100 with heavy duty spring ko2 285 70 17 with my 4 runner trail 2016 always on city driving .do you think can handle off-road thanks
Your setup sounds good for Offroad. Only one way to find out! Go take it Offroad! The Bilstein 5100 are a good beginner shock to get used to off-roading. I like them, I just drive harder and faster than they were really meant for. Try it out and let me know what you think!
Maybe it’s already been mentioned in the previous comments but you don’t have to use the factory 4Runner springs. I run 2.5 inch Eibach lift springs with the perch set to 0.
You are right. The next reasonable step would have been to just upgrade to a higher spring rate with the Bilstein 5100s. I just decided to skip steps 2-9 and go from 1 straight to 10.
I’m curious, what if you have a 2.5 spring but would like 3” lift. Do you just adjust the strut .5 to raise it some paired with the 2.5 spring?
@@ivan199120 good question
Nice. I have SR5 Premium. How's the ride on potholes ? Hard ? Compared to factory that is.
It’s just a little bit stiffer on the road. Which I think makes it better. It still rides over potholes better than stock. I have 33” tires which helps too though.
How many mm is the shock piston? I run EFS 40mm shock pistons on my Toyota fortuner, it's equivalent to the 4runner
From what I’ve seen the piston is 46mm
@@DBCoffroad the EFS 40mm pistons are much more costly than the 46mm Bilstein.. I wonder why? Great in depth review... Great content👍🏾
@@mombasasherman I’m not sure. Maybe different materials inside. Thanks for the comment!
What clip numbers for the front shocks?
I put it at the highest setting. (Most lift)
DBC Offroad, if not the factory springs with the 5100's, can you recommend a better performing spring to go with instead?
Old Man Emu makes some coils that will fit the 5100s:
www.bilsteinlifts.com/shop/toyota-4runner/03-09-4runner/03-09-4runner-front-lifts-coilovers/front-ome-coils-for-07-14-toyota-fj-cruiser-03-18-4runner/
Another option is from Toytec Lifts:
www.toyteclifts.com/521600-kit-toytec-3-lift-front-coil-spring-kit.html
After your lift, any type of trimming or removal to fit your 33’s? Are you running with KDSS too? thanks for the video! Aloha!
I needed to trim 1/2”-1” from the front of the bumper closest to the tire and readjust the inner fender liner. It’s super minimal and you can’t tell it’s not factory. Trail4Runner.com has really good write ups how to do it.
I don’t have KDSS on my 4Runner.
For the stock, is it using the standard suspension or the upgraded package with Kinetic Dynamic Suspension ?
The stock shocks on the KDSS and Non-KDSS are the same. The TRD Offroad 4Runner I have is a Non-KDSS version.
Stock shocks/struts lasted 230,000 miles, and were still adequate. I decided to replace them when doing front end overhaul - again, nothing was wrong with any of the suspension components but I lifted it a bit and installed AM UCA's to accommodate lift and to get caster withing specs.
One bilstein strut blew up in less than a year of on-road driving.
Their warranty is not worth the paper it's written on - the shock is $90, they demand photos (that I provided) but they also want me to send the bad part to them on my dime AND pay for a return replacement shipping if (IF!!!) they (THEY) find it defective which costs you $50. Again, it's the best case-scenario providing they DO find it defective. Otherwise, you are out of shipping cost AND have no strut.
Sweet deal. NOT! It might be "german engineering" but it's mexican manufacturing and american "business attitude" towards customers.
Sorry to hear you had a bad experience. Did you end up going with another brand?
@@DBCoffroad Not yet - it's an on-going thing, I just noticed the leak and completed communication with bilstein via the seller.
So far, nothing worked nearly as well as OEM (in case of Toyota, of course), and all overblown AM "updates" are rarely anything but marketing scam. I take that back - RCI skid plates are definitely superior to Toyota's joke.
Bilstein has 6112's for front and 5100 series with remote resivour for rears too... so maybe that would have been better off the get go for your driving than the 5100 fronts and regular rears. I do prefer the digressive shocks myself but thats personal pref i know. Good compares/before-afters !
Yes that would have been the logical next step. And there are stronger coil options available for the 5100 Fronts. I just drive too hard and decided to skip a few steps all the way to Fox. I’m interested how the Fox setup works. Will be an upcoming video.
@@DBCoffroad I installed the Bilstein 6112 on my 2021 Tacoma TRD 4X4 ver the Fox shocks mainly because the Bilsteins will last much longer before a rebuild is necessary.
Have a pair of Bilstein 5100 for the rear but still using the original Bilstein 4600 in the rear.
Done some serious off roading and very pleased with the Bilstein 6112 shocks.
Great video!
Thanks for watching!
Great comparison
Thanks!
Hey man, how much did you lift the front/what setting on the 5100s did you decide on?
There are 4 different clip settings. I set mine at the highest so it would lift it 2.5”. The problem is after it settled it was more like 2.25”. Then after adding weight it’s somewhere around 1.5”-2”. The stock front springs that you reuse are just too soft.
@@DBCoffroad did the rear height retained its height? Or it went down too? I was thinking it will have a rake again.
I like your videos and how u explain everything and every details
Thank you!
Do you have KDSS on your 4runner?
Mine is Non-KDSS
I've been researching and there are 4runner owners stating that with the Bilsteins 5100, the driver side is a little lower on the .85 setting. Did u measure both sides or notice any height differences ? Thx
Yes the “4Runner lean” is present. The drivers side is about .5” lower than the passenger side. There isn’t really anyway to compensate for that unless you get adjustable coil overs (with threaded preload adjustment) or add a small shim above the drivers side shock.
@@DBCoffroad Is that just with the 5100s or just Bilstein itself ? The Bilstein 6112s have the coils. You think that would have that same offset ?
@@kota11334 it’s with any lift really. The 4Runner just has the battery and gas tank as well as the driver on the drivers side. All the extra weigh creates the “4Runner lean”. The coils with the 6112 would be a great upgrade from the softer stock coils. You will probably still have a slight lean on the drivers side though. From my research most people add a .25” shim on the drivers side of it bothers you at all.
thanks for video. definitely a difference.
Hey thanks for the feedback !
Do you think the 5100 helped keep it more stable on the highway ? I do a lot of highway driving, the floating around is irritating.
I think the 5100s are a mild upgrade in every way over stock. They do stiffen up the on road feel a little. I agree that the floating feeling is very annoying. If I didn't purchase Fox shocks, I would have upgraded the 5100s with a heavier front spring like these:
www.toyteclifts.com/521600-kit-toytec-3-lift-front-coil-spring-kit.html
or
www.bilsteinlifts.com/shop/toyota-4runner/03-09-4runner/03-09-4runner-front-lifts-coilovers/front-ome-coils-for-07-14-toyota-fj-cruiser-03-18-4runner/
@@DBCoffroad thanks man !!!! I’ll give these a look, I just can’t stand going above 65mph and constantly moving that steering wheel.
I did the 5100s on my '21. Immediately noticed less dive and better overall on-road handling which is what I was shooting for. I only did the leveling lift (second groove) which lifts the front
Sounds like the 5100s are a perfect choice then! Thanks for the info. I’m excited for your adventures.
Did u go with this yet? How do I like the OME springs?
R they the 2895s?
Did you do anything to the back at that point ? About to buy a 4r and trying to plan. I’m in the same boat as you in terms of use. Test drove one and the nose dive feels quite dramatic.
what is the tire size for this kit and did you have to trim the bumper to make them fit?
33”
You have to take the front mud flaps off and trim a very very small portion of the front bumper.
Great video! What kind of tires did you go with and what size springs did you get to level up with the front?
I got the Kenda Klever RT. I watched a @donutmedia video on their Hi Low Trucks. The Kendas were only $200 a tire compared to everything else near or over $300. I think they are great. I’d buy them again.
Bilstein 1.5” rear spring.
Thank you! Keep the 4Runner videos coming!
I lifted my '18 4Runner on the 2nd setting (.85"). I'm not happy with it. You feel every small bump and stripe on the road. I think a whole new set of springs would be better than re-useing the factory ones. Not really sure. Anyone have any ideas?
A new set of springs will mostly likely make it stiffer. The stock springs are already pretty soft. The Bilsteins are digressive valving too. So they tend to initially be stiff and soften as you cycle the suspension more. What kind of tires do you have?
@@DBCoffroad Hercules Terra Trac AT2. (Cooper). Nothing special
What’s the load rating? That could be what causes you to feel all the bumps depending on the rating.
@@DBCoffroad my tires are C rated. I’m wondering if there’s a better option of shocks/springs that give a better road feel quality. My wife hates it. I figured the 2nd setting of the 5100’s would’ve been smoother
Hmm. It must just be the valving. Do you have KDSS?
1.75 front? Or 2.5, great informátion!
The shocks claim 2.5” of maximum lift. But the actual lift was about 2.25” in the front.
What watch are you wearing?
Garmin Instinct.
Hi there! Do you have KDSS on your rig?
No I do not.
@@DBCoffroad Nice! Here in Canada you cannot opt out for the KDSS on the OffRoad trim. That limita your lifting options to 2.5" maximum.
I don't know that there is really any benefit to lifting over 2.5" if you want the suspension to cycle properly. Really the only reason to lift higher than that is to try and get larger tires, but then you are limiting you suspension travel.
How can I do a 3” with those set up ?
I’m not sure that you can. Maybe get OME front springs. And then strut shims for above the shocks. Anything above 2.5” is usually for a threaded preload adjuster style shock, like a coil over.
super nice job on the video!!
Thank you!
Great video, thanks
Glad you liked it!
Which rear coil did you settle on?
The Bilstein 1.5” lift.
Westcott collares are a good support they say
What do you mean good support?
@@DBCoffroad chk u tube
“ getting enough lift out of your bilsteins”
Westcott
Nice setup
Thanks!
New tires stock size ?
They are 33s. Actual size 285/70R17
Amazing video!!!
Thanks!
I hear about the 4runner nose dive on braking, but I haven't really noticed a problem with mine. I suspect that may have something to do with mine being equipped with KDSS. Is yours KDSS?
I have the Non-Kdss.
@@DBCoffroad I don't have a lot to compare to, but I am pretty happy with my 5100s. I have to agree that the ride is similar to stock, just allowing a lift. When I air down by BFG KO2s a little, the ride on rough trails is great. I haven't done any high speed desert running, and I expect the 5100s would not handle that nearly as well as remote reservoir Kings or Fox shocks, but for my purposes the 5100s have done just what I wanted them to.
Great video. Quick question, did you adapt the ball joints (Upper and Lower)? normally they tend to work forced when the car is lifted, the geometry of the pieces changes because of this.
I'm about to do the same, but I was wondering if we need to do something extra to avoid the ball joints work forced.
Thanks again for this amazing video!!!!
I’m not sure what you mean.
@@DBCoffroad Sorry if my question was not good enough. I'm talking about this: th-cam.com/video/g7lkotQ872E/w-d-xo.html
Please let me know your thoughts.
Regards!!!!
@@alexvar1 For the Bilstein lift I did not buy new upper control arms. However, I think it would be a good idea. At full droop travel, the stock upper control arms don't have enough clearance and actually hit slightly on the front coil spring. I purchased the Icon Delta Joint UCA's with the Fox Suspension that I will be installing soon. The video you sent me was good. SPC Makes good products for articulation. Here's another video for some more UCA information: th-cam.com/video/-HWA3Bqd4bQ/w-d-xo.html
Grear Video!
Thanks for watching!
Awesome presentation of stock verses Bilstein's suspension. Liked the way you did the split screen for comparison 💪💯💪💯💪. New Subscriber & 👍👍👍
1999 4runner 2RWD stock suspension thinking of doing the Bilstein's 5100 upgrade but my question is I do city driving & lots of Highway driving, do you think it will make my vehicle to harsh of a ride? Once again Thank You for the Awesome Video please keep them coming.
P.S. I'm a Heavy Chevy Fan💪👍💪👍💪👍💯💯💯
Thank you. I appreciate the comment!
To answer your question - the Bilstein 5100 make the ride better on the road. Overall the 5100s are an improvement over stock in just about every way. I thought the stock suspension was a little soft on the road. Hope this helps.
You will notice a slight increase in firmness over the stock, but that's not saying much. The stock suspenders are filled with jello, like something out of a 70's Cadillac. The handling and brake dive improvement is waaaaay worth any little bit of extra firmness. I'm assuming you would have bought a Buick if you wanted a marshmallow ride ;) .
Bilstien 5100’s don’t stand a chance against those FOX shocks with remote Reservoirs
Yea. You’re right. I skipped a few steps. Haha
Maybe it's just me, but it looked like you were going faster with the stock suspension testts than the Bilstien tests. Good video though.
Thanks for the comment. Most of the higher speed stuff I tried to keep at 20mph.
That was a good video.
Thank you!
Now install Dobinsons coil springs and you really will see a difference...
Thanks!
Nice I have the same year and color lol.
Right on!
You should thr bronco flag higher in the garage so you don't block the logo so much.
Thanks for the suggestion
All this means nothing if you you don't have KDSS when it comes to on road performance. The nose dice is very evident when a 4runner doesn't have kdss or the xreas
Good to know. Adding weight doesn’t help. Wish I would have gone with KDSS though
@@DBCoffroad me too brother. It makes a drastic difference. It'd a dream to drive when you have kdss with the trd pro shock. The best are the xreas but it's not on trd model. It levels out the truck on turns. So much so that you place your wallet on the dash and it wo t slide around on turns.
Kdss has nothing to do with nose dive. It's a hydraulically actuated sway bar that affects body roll in turns.The stiffness of shocks affects nose dive
@@jamesp6283 that's not true.
You're comparing a stock used suspension against a brand new suspension.
What conclusions are you attempting to draw with that statement?
I dont get it, you review an entry level Bilstein, you then say it's not enough so you wouldn't recommend the Bilstein lift kit as if they have only one option and then show a Fox 2.5 as if the base level Bilstein should have been comparable to that. Truth be told the Bilstein 8112 internal bypass is far superior to that Fox 2.5 without the need for valve tuning the way the Fox will need to truly perform where as the Bilstein 8112s are vehicle specific tuned.
This is a false recommendation.
Bilstein 8112s for the win!
I skipped several steps in the Bilstein line. It was just what I had available to compare. The next best step would be the 6112s if you don't like the 5100s.
What size tires did you put on there after the lift?
285/70-R17
Great video!
Thanks!