2003 Tacoma Lift Kit

Alright everyone,

I've looked at the options to put a lift kit in my truck, however I can't make a decision on which one I would like to have for the long run.

I am only wanting a 3 inch lift in the truck. and I don't know all of the components I need to buy.

Im doing a road trip from Alaska to Maine in the summer, and I want to get my rig all ready to go for the big trip.

look to see the pros opinions.

Peace!

 

Not a pro in any way but will share this -

Take a look at this:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/old-man-emu-setups-on-1st-gen.141055/

The package for our trucks can be found here: and a nearly identical package can be found here:

https://www.headstrongoffroad.com/store/p314/Complete_Old_Man_Emu_Kit_w/_Dakar_Leaf_Pack_-_1998-2004_Tacoma.html


When I ordered my kit, I went with @Wheeler's Off-Road Inc . If you decide to order from them, reach out to them and they certainly will answer any of your questions. So will headstrong. I went with wheelers since they are out of state and I saved on tax plus they have a little discount for forum members.

As for coil springs, ask yourself if you plan to add any armor up front. Nice heavy bumper/winch, etc. If you will be adding this at time of suspension upgrade or shortly after, then go with 882 or 883 springs. If not, stick with 881 springs and you'll be happy. I also suggest whoever you decide to order from, have them assemble the coilovers - makes the kit install much easier.

If you typically load out with 200+lbs in the bed - be it a shell/cap or just gear/cargo, you'll need to consider the Add-A-Leaf they offer. Now one point, if you do decide to do the AAL, have it assembled by wheelers or headstrong.

There are many options and combinations out there and you can find less expensive or even go higher in cost depending on how you configure things.

As for install of the OME kit, it is certainly doable to install it yourself. While these kits do not ship with any instructions whatsoever, you have a ton of knowledge on TacomaWorld to reference. The most important part will be here - all the info you need on procedure is here -

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...tory-service-manual.5696/page-7#post-17449245

Welcome to TW!

 

For 3" of lift.


ON THE FRONT:

(2) Bilstein 5100 Height Adjustable Front Strut Set D558 $175


Old Man Emu 2881 Front Coil Set $160

You can leave your stock Upper Control Arm as I did for awhile, but that will be problematic. I installed s set costing $485 some years later.
I wish I would have installed them from the beginning.
The improvement in handling and wheel alignment is so radically better with these it makes them worth it.





ON THE REAR:


Racing Leaf Springs at $700 (current price).
You can get a few inches of lift from any aftermarket spring or even adding a leaf or two to your stock springs. While cheaper that way I wanted the ride that these racing springs give (if you don't haul heavy things).

(2) Bilstein 5100s $140

 

I bought a skyjacker kit my 03 Taco. 2 new arched springs and new front adjustable Fox shocks was all that was in the box.

The kit was 2200$, and I believe it only adds 2 to 2.5"s lift. I run 33" BFG A/T and had to take the front mudflaps off.

When I started searching for a lift, I couldn't find what I use to find back in the 90's; And I couldn't find much help so I just ordered the kit.

It's an okay kit, but I think there are better cheaper options out there now. ^This guy above me shared some great resources!!