Hey guys, I've never been much of a suspension expert, so I'm asking you guys before I screw something up. I got some Tokico Illuminas, Tein S.Tech springs, Rotary Extreme Trailing arms and Toe Links. I'll be installing them in about two weeks. Does anyone have any tips for a smooth job? Thanks.

 

buy ALL new bolts! i recently put new struts and springs in mine and it would have been a piece of cake and only take about 1.5-2 hours if it hadnt been for one stuck and then fucked up bolt. my cousin (read: big berly biker guy) had to whail on it for a good 15 min with a dead shot hammer to get it out. by that time it was pretty fucked its self. after that we tried for about 3 hours to fix the threads on it, but it didnt work so we ran to napa right before it closed and got all new ones. besides the bolts an impact wrench is nice to have.

 

Thanks for the tip. Every little bit helps.

 

RedX7,

It's pretty straight forward. Just have the FSM handy as the diagrams for the suspension section are actually worth it.

On the rear, don't get frustrated getting everything put back together (especially with those damn bushings).

 

The front lower shock mounts in the a-arms and the toe links have steel inserts that the bolts pass through. This keeps the steel bolts from wearing the soft aluminum of the suspension. These inserts "float" in the suspension arms. If your new parts won't fit correctly all you need to do is tap the inserts back to give you some room. The bolts will pull it snug again when tightened.

You'll know what I mean when you get there.

 

Thanks again guys. I really appreciate it.

 

Don't forget to get a full alignment after finishing your install.

 

I am trying to install my tokico's on my FD right now....but the factory spacer/bushing, that sits on top of the upper mount, under the shock tower, is not cut to a circular shape like the tokico's are...it is D shaped and won't fit. Should I drill it out? If so, to what size?

 

Yes, you have to bore it out to fit the wider rod from aftermarket shocks. You also really should be installing new upper spring mounts, usually the existing one is pretty beat up.

 

You ******* newB idiot.....why don't you read the instructions that came in the box. They say to file the D shape round right there plain as black-white....I swear I have never heard of anyone being as dumb as you.

j/k man

File File File

And he did buy new upper mounts for all 4 as well.