4x4 / Off-Road TechThis section contains all discussion related to taking the FJ Cruiser in Off-Road situations, 4x4 applications and any armor modifications.
for those of you who have gotten the OME lift on your FJs, I was wondering how much you all paid for installation. I realize that the parts themselves actually cost about $700, the one and only shop here in So Cal that has them in stock is charging $700 for install as well...is that high, am I getting reamed or does that sound about right?
thanks guys
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enjoy the ride...
$700 seems high to me, but I am going to install my OME lift myself (when it arrives.). Even the local dealer said it would be a 4-5 hour job. Assuming their shop rate is $100/hour that's only $400-$500 at the dealer. You might want to call your local dealer and see if they will do it. Shop around a little and I'll bet you find a better price.
service tech at the shop told me that it was a 8 hr job and that the $700 for install includes the alignment...he admitted that his hourly rate is pretty high ($90/hr)...
the problem lies in the fact that this is the only 1 shop in So Cal that I have found that currently has these lifts in stock, and I dont want to wait to long since I already have huge tyres on the Fj, they be rubbing already...
If anyone else knows of a shop in Southern California that has these OME lifts in stock and have a lower hourly rate for service, then by all means let me know...
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enjoy the ride...
thanks a ton man! you just helped me save $300...the shop that I was going to charge me $700 was TLC 4x4...I called man a fre and they're going to hook me up for a hell of a lot cheaper plus they're going to install it sooner...you just made my day...AWESOME!
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enjoy the ride...
thanks a ton man! you just helped me save $300...the shop that I was going to charge me $700 was TLC 4x4...I called man a fre and they're going to hook me up for a hell of a lot cheaper plus they're going to install it sooner...you just made my day...AWESOME!
hey sbtech,what r u using on the rear? 895springs and n141shocks???
I am going with a more firm (heavy) spring setup in the rear. I will be installing 896 springs with N142 shocks. There are couple of reason why I chose to go with the heavier springs.
1.) I plan on installing an aftermarket rear bumper w/ tire carrier, hi-lift jack and gas cans when available which will probably add 100+ lbs to the rear of my FJ.
2.) I upgraded my wheels and the new wheels weight ~30 lbs more that the stock wheels (think: weight of the spare on the rear).
3.) I have a hitch mounted dirt bike carrier that I use to transport my CRF450 and a gas can.
4.) I have a boat that I might some day decide to tow with the FJ (unlikely, but did not want to rule it out).
5.) I will be doing some extended camping trips with my boys where the FJ will be loaded up with gear and I did not want to over load the suspension.
With that understanding of my requirements, I chose the 896/N142 setup. I would rather have a more harsh ride when unloaded, then to over the suspension. BTW, if you haven't already read all the threads/post from "Valkyrie" (Chris) at Toyota of Dallas, then I suggest you read them. There are a ton of little nuggets in his posts that will help you decide which specific configuration is correct for you. If after reading his posts you still have questions - send him a PM and ask. Chris is great to talk to and has a wealth of knowledge on this topic.
Jim_D installed the 896s and said they are kind of harsh and too stiff; however, if you are going to be loading down the rear, I see your point. For me and most others a less "stiff" rear suspension is all that is needed. Chris (Valkyrie) helped me order the following setup through his shop.
Front
OME 884 Coils $128 pair
OME N140S Struts $237 pair
OME 95PF5 Trim Pack $8.00
Chris and his whole shop are very knowledgeable and dedicated to Toyota off-road machines. With all the information and advice Chris has dispensed on this forum (and in person), I feel obligated to buy from him. Not to mention, his prices ain't too shabby either. Please buy from him and give some well deserved business to a very supportive forum vendor!