Topic: 1983 Suspension - need recommendation

[pedroy]

I recently bought a 1983 4x4 and the suspension is really stiff.  I am looking for recommendation on what to do.  I think currently it has a add a leaf and 2” block on the rear with dual shocks on each side.  I took few pictures of the current setup as I could not figure out who made the kit. 

Anyway, I think I have to replace the leaf springs and shocks so I can eliminate the blocks.  I am gearing toward some OME medium springs with 5” TG shackles.  I am also thinking of just doing a single shocks setup and thinking of the bilstein 5125 12” version.  Is this a good setup that I should go and forget about messing with the current setup to make the ride comfortable?   Here are pictures of my current setup. 











Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Djencee]

Awesome truck!

I had a a similar setup on my 86 and I believe the general consensus is to do away with the blocks. Ultimately, the axle housing on mine got stress fractures due to the blocks causing axle wrap so I ditched them.

Now I have OME rear springs with 5” TG shackles & OME shocks. This is a bolt on setup. I’m happy with the way it turned out because it works with my 3” TG front SAS. Others might be able to give you other solutions.

[pedroy [OP]]

Awesome truck!

I had a a similar setup on my 86 and I believe the general consensus is to do away with the blocks. Ultimately, the axle housing on mine got stress fractures due to the blocks causing axle wrap so I ditched them.

Now I have OME rear springs with 5” TG shackles & OME shocks. This is a bolt on setup. I’m happy with the way it turned out because it works with my 3” TG front SAS. Others might be able to give you other solutions.

What is your front leaf spring?  TG?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Djencee]

For the front, since mine is an 86 and didn’t come with a solid axle, I’m running the 3” TG springs. I think with the TG springs and the front hanger I installed, Im getting about 4&1/2” of lift. 

[pedroy [OP]]

For the front, since mine is an 86 and didn’t come with a solid axle, I’m running the 3” TG springs. I think with the TG springs and the front hanger I installed, Im getting about 4&1/2” of lift.

Thanks for the input.

[Winky29]

I’ll add a +1 for OME. I did new OME leaves front and rear on my ‘85 4Runner. Good quality springs, good ride and easy bolt on install. Keep in mind that you’ll need the flat u-bolts on the driver side to clear the drag link and it’s difficult (although not impossible) to run high steer with only 2” lift. I’m still running the factory push-pull steering so that’s not a problem for me. 

Happy Trails,
Winky