Firestone tells me the shocks are leaking on my 2004 T4R, SE, V8, XREAS, AWD with 120k miles. 70% of my driving is 75mph on the highway between Tampa and Tennessee, 25% is driving the narrow, twisting rural country roads of NE Tennessee and the last 5% is grassy fields, dirt roads, gravel logging roads, mud and construction sites. The vehicle is stock except for an K&N intake and slightly larger 265x70x17 Firestone AT tires, it suits my requirements perfectly, No need for lift and I don't tow.

The dealer quoted $2200 to replace the shocks- yikes! The XREAS is a big plus on these back roads, How can I keep the good handling and not spend $2200 ? I take care, do all scheduled maintenance and plan to run it to 200k. I've read the forum info on the XREAS but it's in association with lifting the truck, which I don't need. Any suggestions would be appreciated, maybe ditch the XREAS if I can get a quality shock and maintain the good handling. Any thoughts on a solution?

 

Crunchy

Do some searching on this site and T4R.ORG and Toyota 120 forums...

I have personally removed the XREAS system and I have better handling than the last couple years on the old system.

I recommend the Bilstein 5100's all the way around.
I bought some FJ Springs to replace the front springs, but that was unnecessary.
Total Cost to me was about $ 500 vs the $1800 Dealer quote.

Good Luck!

 

Bilstein 5100 if you are going to lift, Bilstein HD if staying stock height.

 

yeah i'm interested in the bilsteins too!!