5100's VS. 3" Lift

Rshull07 [OP] · 01-12-2013, 12:17 AM

Ok so I posted a thread earlier asking about shocks but incase you missed it heres a quick recap, I have an 07 FJ completely stock with 91000 miles. The stock shocks are pretty much done so Im looking to replace them. from all the threads Ive read Im loving the Bilstein 5100's. Im looking to at least level the front end and possibly give me a little more height all around and these seem to be what Im looking for....However for roughly the same price it looks like I can get into a 3" lift kit. This is my daily driver so I want something that will give me good, smooth on road performance and a little extra height when I do go off road. And its about time for me to get a new set of tires and Im considering going for some 285/70/17's either Nitto TG's or another set of BFG AT's so should I stick with the 5100's or go for a full lift? price is important Id like to keep it under $500 or $600 if possible.

Banana Boat · 01-12-2013, 02:00 AM

Well if you get a bargain lift, you're still going to have to replace the shocks. So go with the 5100's, I've heard a lot of people are very happy with them. If they fit your needs, go with them. They will also improve ride over the stockers too.

***Old Cruiser*** · 01-12-2013, 02:06 AM

Have you considered OME? Lots of great reviews on those. The suple ride you have could also change with the tires. Make sure you stick with D rated tires. Many switch to tires that only run in E rated and the extra plies cause the ride to be stiffer.

Otherwise a little more $ and the Toytec lifts would be a great melding of what you want- Bilsteins and a lift

SpeedRye · 01-12-2013, 06:48 AM

I've installed 5100's on 5 or 6 local FJs and everyone has been very happy with the improved ride and lift for the money (and I'm happy with all the beer I'm earning!). I've heard good stuff about OME, but haven't installed any. O.C. is very right about the tires though. Now that I'm back on D rated tires, it's like a Cadillac compared to the E rated tires that were on it.

iwashmycar · 01-12-2013, 08:33 AM

I've been very happy with 5100s. Also have some very heavy OE sized E rated tires. They ride just fine, and in my opinion even a little better than the Pmetric ones I previously had. The extra weight really makes the truck feel a bit more planted, and they work really well aired down offroading.

Rshull07 [OP] · 01-17-2013, 02:41 PM

Ive been told by some local shops its also time to replace my springs as well. Is that necessary to do along with the shocks? Thats what has me considering the OME kit but its just a little out of my budget at the moment. Should I save up for the OME kit? Or just stick with the 5100's on stock springs in the front?

csitracadie · 01-17-2013, 03:02 PM

I I were you I stick to the 5100's. If your springs are getting softer you can always kick it up a notch. You might have enough left over for some take off springs and shocks for the back. They are often available for sale here.

ccwarcat · 01-17-2013, 03:56 PM

Interesting... I have stock rear springs and shocks that I can sell ya cheap.
I just had the 3" Rough Country lift installed... love it by the way.

Bonomonster · 01-17-2013, 04:00 PM

I'm running 5100's set on second setting with Eibach front springs up front, and 5100's with Toytec Superflex springs in the rear. I got just under 3'' lift upfront and a little over 2'' out back. As far as tire size, I'm running 285 70 17 without a BMC and have no rubbing issues at all. I would definitely recommend this setup. Also I would recommend a differential drop kit. Toytec sells one for $20 or so that also comes with skid Plate spacers. I have 5k on my lift over the past 8 months and the only issue was wear on the axle seals due to not having a differential drop.

Bonomonster · 01-17-2013, 04:01 PM

This setup is also in your price range. Go with the Nitto's