Rear Suspension Enhancement Recommendations for a 2002 Toyota 4Runner Carrying a Dirt Bike

Updated 03/02/2013 | Published 02/28/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Coil SumoSprings Custom Helper Springs for Coil Spring Suspension - Rear Axle

(447)

$206.99

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(6795)

$269.36

Question:

I want to enhance my rear suspension to accommodate for extra weight added by a dirt bike rack that attaches to my receiver hitch. I was wanting to know which would be better for my application the Sumo Springs helper springs or the Timbren product or can the be used in tandem? The dirty bike weighs 300 lbs. 4Runners are known to sag when used to haul loads frequently. It appears that the sumo product is much easier to install. I want to beef up my suspension but retain stock ride without load. I want to do it right and would use both products if you think they will work well together. Or maybe that is just overkill?

asked by: Casey S

Expert Reply:

For your 2002 Toyota 4Runner, if it is 4-wheel drive I recommend the Timbren springs, # TTOR4R. These springs will not change the unloaded ride of the vehicle but you will notice less shock and side to side roll whether loaded or not. They will also keep the vehicle level when a load is present.

If you have a 2-Wheel drive model I recommend the Super Springs SumoSprings, # CSS-1145R. These will also help keep the vehicle level when under load and you should not notice much if any difference when not loaded.

Stacking, or using both products at the same time would not be all that beneficial and you may actually experience a stiffer ride. I have included installation instructions for both products for you to view.

expert reply by: Michael H