Replacing LBJ's soon. What other suspension upgrades should I consider?
I'll be replacing the lower ball joints on my 2001 tacoma soon, and I'd like to use it as an opportunity to tackle any other suspension maintenance/upgrades at the same time. The truck has been my daily driver for several years, with lots of fun fishing / mountain / dirt road trips mixed in. It's got 180k on it, and will now be more of around town, occasional errand vehicle as my wife and I need a more baby-friendly option.
Future Plans
I do not plan on selling this truck. I'd like to keep it forever as my hobby truck that I will tinker on for the rest of my life. Therefore, a more occasional local cruiser / dad's-mini-adventure-truck. I'd like to always have the option to take myself (and future adventure partner aka "daughter") on a back roads fishing trips and sleep in the bed of the truck. I'll always have a camper shell on it, and a lightweight camper buildout in the back.
Current Build
- Bilstein 4800's front and back (new in 2020)
- Steering Rack & Pinion (new in 2018)
- Tie Rods (new in 2024)
- Original Stock Coils
- Original Stock Strut Mounts
- Original Ball Joints
- Original control arms
- Original rear leaf springs (which might or might not be sagging just a bit now)
What I'm Considering
As I do the lower ball joints, I'm wondering what other components I should consider upgrading. I've always had a good ol' fashioned "CLUNK" come from the front right wheel, and neither the new steering rack in 2018 or struts in 2020 solved the issue. Maybe it's the strut mounts? Either way, here is what's on my mind:
- Replace the strut mounts (seems like an obvious choice)
- Replace UCA's? The current ones look ANCIENT, and I should be able to afford new ones (OEM or aftermarket)
- Upgrade to Bilstein 5100's ? (I've always wanted an extra 1-2" of clearance, but always been a little trigger shy)
- I like the Old man emu kit, which will get me that lift I've been considering, but may be a bit excessive/ridgid for me?
If anyone has any recommendations on a solid suspension setup that doesn't totally change the geometry / integrity of this fine machine, I'd much appreciate it. Thanks for reading and taking the time.