2003 Toyota Tacoma Ext.Cab Pre-Runner V6

Hello ya’ll my name is Loretta new to the Forum, I’ve installed some Rancho RS9000XL front struts rear shocks, my truck is stock, and they have raised the front a bit, I do want to put something on the rear to level it out, I understand that after a few hundred miles they should settle some but I really don’t think it will be enough, can I get some input on what I should do? Rear leaf springs perhaps, I do work on my vehicles myself, I will be getting a front end alignment once I figure out my next step, thanks in advance on the recommendations, also there’s an adjustment setting on these struts and shocks I believe 1-7, what should I have this setting on? I want a smoother ride. Thanks again guys and gals

 

Welcome to TW!

 

"also there’s an adjustment setting on these struts and shocks I believe 1-7, what should I have this setting on? I want a smoother ride."
I did the same coilover replacement. Thought the adjustment was for lift. NOT. Start with lowest setting, drive it awhile and adjust as needed. As for leveling, Rancho says they lift ~ 1.75" so the easiest & cheapest way would be 2" lifting shackles. Unless your rear leafs are shot, then a new leaf pack with 2-2.5" lift would be the way to go. New u-bolts too.

 

Well how would I determine if my leaf springs are shot, I think I’d prefer to change those instead of the shackles, and what brand or who can I get them from? Thanks for your comment!

 

How many miles on the truck? Look at your leafs from underneath. Do they have any upward arch at all? Like a smile? If so they are good & 2" shackles should be all you need. Do they have a downward arch or sort of a "W" shape? If so they need replacing. Replacing just the shackles will be much easier than doing the leaf pack. General Springs KC sells a standard & a HD leaf pack for your truck. You would probably want the HD. There are other options out there as well. Some folks like add-a-leafs but those, IMO, are a band-aid fix & more work than replacing a leaf pack. You will need new U-bolts for sure as they are not supposed to be re-used. Depending on where the truck lives/has lived you might need new front eye bolts as those sometimes have to be cut to remove them. Where are you located? It is good to put that in your profile. There are regional forums on here & you might find someone local who is knowledgeable on these trucks.

 

I’m My truck has about 244K miles I live in California, after I put new rear shocks the leaf springs actually look straight, I didn’t notice them before the new shocks, not really much curve, I did get a picture but might not be that good, I think I want to go ahead and change them, I’m just look for good quality and decent price, I read a few post about DAKAR, I will check out what you suggested, thanks for your response!