Eibach Stage 1 Pro-Truck Lift Install & Overview on 4Runner

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Affordable & Impressive New Lift Kit (2010 – 2020) for the 5th Gen 4Runner  – 2.75″ Front and 1″ Rear

If you are looking for a complete suspension lift kit that is budget-friendly from a reputable brand, consider the Eibach Stage 1 Pro-Truck Lift. Made in the USA and offering a million-mile warranty, this is a solid suspension choice.

This kit is going to compete directly with the popular Bilstein versions (5100 & 6112) and (5160 & 6112).

As mentioned, this kit will lift the vehicle 2.75 inches in the front, and 1 inch in the rear, leveling it out from the factory “rake”. Overall, this suspension will improve handling, articulation, ground clearance and looks of the vehicle.

This install was done on my 2014 SR5 Premium (without KDSS) at my friend’s personal shop. My 4Runner has 265/70R17 General Grabber ATx tires and Stealth Custom Series F5 wheels, at 17×8.5 with -10mm offset. After the lift, I no longer have rubbing in reverse on hard lock, as I did at factory height.

Check out our tire size guide if you have any questions on tire and wheel size.

A full on-road and off-road review will be coming soon.

STEP BY STEP INSTALL VIDEO FROM MARTY MOTORING

Install was done on 2014 SR5 Premium 5th Gen 4Runner

Contents

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

This kit comes with the 4 springs and 4 shocks required, along with all of the necessary hardware. The upper strut mounts in the front will need to be re-used, along with some of the factory bolts, nuts and the rear spring hat.

As per Eibach, the “PRO-LIFT” springs should be installed with the Eibach Logo right side up. All original stock spring isolators, dampers and tubing should be retained from the stock springs and used when installing the “PRO-LIFT” springs. The Pro-Truck Leveling springs must not be used with the OE shocks. Extended travel shocks are required to avoid damage to the suspension.

  1. Two Front Shocks and Springs
  2. Two Rear Shocks and Springs
  3. Extra snap rings

Install

For this install, you will need to know how to jack up your truck, use jack stands, and remove your wheels. If you are not confident in these areas, I advise to use a local 4×4 shop and have them do the install.

Tools/Parts Needed:

STEP 1: Raise up the vehicle and remove the wheels

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

A lift and impact really came in handy, here. If you’re on the ground, break each lug nut loose with a break bar. In my case, I used the impact driver to get each lug nut off.

STEP 2: Unbolt brackets holding ABS and brake lines

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

There is one on the side of the spindle, and one on the Upper Control Arm (UCA).

STEP 3: Unbolt the outer tie rod end

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Remove the cotter pin and castle nut. Once unbolted, hit the spindle area (not the tire rod end itself) with a mallet to vibrate the threaded area out, as shown below.

STEP 4: Unbolt the sway bar end link

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Sometimes the nut just spins with the bolt. In that case, a wrench and allen key work great.

STEP 5: Unbolt spindle from the UCA

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Remove the cotter pin and castle nut that is holding together the upper control arm and spindle. Then use a mallet or hammer (and some force) to get it out. There is a designated flat spot on the spindle for this purpose. A zip tie is recommended to hold it in place while hammering on.

Once everything is out of the way, we can access the shock assembly.

STEP 6: Remove the three nuts on top

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Remove the three nuts that secure your shocks. There are two nuts  in the front and one in the back.

STEP 7: Unbolt the lower strut bolt

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Tap the bolt out with a mallet. Move the shock around to relieve pressure on the bolt.

STEP 8: Remove the front shock assembly from the vehicle

We will need to reuse the top hat/upper strut assembly on the Eibach setup.

STEP 9: Assemble new front setup

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

At this point, you can set the spring on the new shock. Make sure the bottom of the spring aligns with the perch. Then, we remove the old bushing from the upper strut mount. We used spring compressors to take tension off of the spring, which allows us to install the upper strut mount with new hardware and bushings. The snap ring was preinstalled on the lowest setting, which is for 2.75 inches of lift. The higher settings are to accommodate for more front weight, like an off-road style front bumper, not necessarily extra lift.

STEP 10: Install the new suspension

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Install the Eibach spring and shock assembly back into the vehicle in reverse order that it was removed. Using the original hardware, thread the bolts down through the open holes and into the suspension. Hand tighten them for now. Make sure you align the bottom of the strut so it is aligned with the lower control arm strut bolt location. The sway bar can be moved and manipulated to get the new suspension in. Leave the sway bar for last when doing both sides.

STEP 11: Connect UCA, tie rod end and sway bar end link

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Connect everything back together and use new cotter pins.

STEP 12: Rebolt ABS and brake line brackets

Once you have all nuts and bolts on, you want to double-check any nuts and bolts that need to be torqued to the 5th Gen 4Runner specs.

Let’s move to the rear

STEP 13: Unbolt the lower shock nut

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

STEP 14: Unbolt the track bar

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

STEP 15: Remove top shock nut

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Using a vice grip and ratchet to hold the shock, unbolt the top nut.

STEP 16: Unbolt the sway bar mount

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

This allows for extra movement of the rear axle.

STEP 17: Install new rear coil springs

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Depress the rear axle, pop out the old springs and pop the new ones in. The original rubber top mount will need to be reused and easily transfers to the new spring.

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Be sure to align the bottom of the spring on the perch.

STEP 18: Install new rear shocks

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

First, mount the bottom, and then the top. Once tightened, reinstall the track bar and sway bar mount.

STEP 19: Tighten all nuts and bolts and put the wheels back on

Make sure everything is torqued to spec and you are good to go! An alignment may be necessary for your vehicle, due to the camber changing.

STEP 20: Enjoy your new Eibach Lift!

And that’s how it’s done. Big thanks to Ryan at Eibach, Brenan at Trail4runner and Steve of Hammerdown Motorsports.

Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Stage 1

Subscribe
Notify of
guest

44 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Kendra
Kendra
10 months ago

Awesome suspension! Couldn’t be happier with the way it rides/handles. Works well with my KDSS/285/70-17’s/ProComp Vertigo wheels. So much better than stock, sits level and no nose diving.

George Hakeem
George Hakeem
3 months ago
Reply to  Kendra

Did you need any additional parts to work with the kdss

Gabe
Gabe
1 year ago

I installed this kit on my 2021 4Runner. The ride and feel improved significantly. I don’t like that this kit didn’t give me enough lift up front. I should have went with the Stage 2 for additional lift towards the front of the vehicle.

Davin Tang
Nomad
2 years ago

I’ve been running this suspension for a year and it’s been amazing. I’ve done everything with it from bombing down washboard roads to rock crawling. It handles great in all scenarios. It’s a bit stiffer than stock, but that’s what I wanted. The brake dive has been eliminated which was one of the main things I was looking for when shopping for suspension. Paired with the KDSS system, the truck stays ridiculously flat through the curvy mountain roads. In my opinion, this is the best suspension you can get for the price point.

Here’s a video I made of this suspension in action on the trail:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpMwAEHXPi8

RT RT
RT RT
1 year ago
Reply to  Davin Tang

Malinda’s rig

RT RT
RT RT
1 year ago
Reply to  Davin Tang

Pretty sure that’s Malinda’s Rig….

Jack Vang
Jack Vang
3 years ago

With the addition of TSS and other electronic gizmos, is there anything else that needs to be removed on 20+ 4runners for the Eibach install?

Davin Tang
Nomad
3 years ago
Reply to  Jack Vang

Just got done installing this kit on a 2021 4runner, there are no differences with a TSS 4runner. Just be careful with your abs lines to not stretch them during install, but this goes for any year 4runner.

alignment lift
alignment lift
4 years ago

This article provides us information regarding the eibach stage 1 pro truck lift install overview on 4 runner. You will get the best review over here. It plays a vital role in taking us through. It can be really great for people like me who are looking for grabbing more knowledge about it.

SSE
SSE
4 years ago

Hello, I have a 2017 4runner SR5 and considering on getting the eibach pro lift. I was wondering what’s the largest tires i can run with no rub issues currently on factory 265/70/17 nitto terra grappler

Craig
Craig
3 years ago
Reply to  SSE

I have this , I did 285s but had cut my front fender with a high clearance cut before my 285s went on. I’m confident that just removing the front mud flaps , you can fit 285s.

Mallorie Gary
Mallorie Gary
4 years ago

Did you, or do you recommend also replacing your stock UCA’s with this lift? Did installing this suspension cause any new problems that have not been mentioned?

Craig
Craig
3 years ago
Reply to  Mallorie Gary

I did UCAs by choice, not required though. No issues other than I wish the rear was 2 inches instead of 1.

Mike Thelen
Mike Thelen
4 years ago
Reply to  Mallorie Gary

Yes, a six month review on the Eibach kit would be nice. I’m leaning toward this over a Bilstein set up but would like some reviews after using it for a while.

Peter Ensrud
Peter Ensrud
4 years ago
Reply to  Mike Thelen

have had for a year and still great. but according to alignment specialist adding UCA’s would help. So…need to look into that.

Drew McMinn
Drew McMinn
4 years ago

Well Done!! I CAN NOT wait to do this to my lady!!

Sal Moretti
Sal Moretti
4 years ago

Hey, I have a 2016 Trail and am debating on getting the 3″ leveling kit or doing this. What would you recommend?

Joshua Sanchez
Joshua Sanchez
4 years ago

I installed the Eibach Stage 1 Pro-Truck Lift on my ’19 Tacoma TRD OFFROAD 4X4 and I love it!! Now I just need to get some wheels and tires!

My only issue is hearing a little bit of creaking when I accelerate from a complete stop. I’ll have to take it back to the shop to make sure it’s nothing or see if it’s coming the bushings

Chris
Chris
11 months ago
Reply to  Joshua Sanchez

I have this issue. I can’t figure it out. Did you find out what it was?

Craig
Craig
3 years ago
Reply to  Joshua Sanchez

Same on my 4runner .

J H
J H
4 years ago

I have a 2019 TRD-Off Road Premium. By putting this on, am I going to damage/affect the KDSS system that came with the vehicle? I want to do upgrades but not to the extent that I damage my investment. Advice?

Trevor Varney
Trevor Varney
4 years ago
Reply to  J H

As long as you get a quality suspension it wont effect KDSS. Suspension not Spacers.

Brenan Greene
Admin
Scout
4 years ago
Reply to  J H

I have run multiple suspensions on KDSS 4Runners, and this kit will have zero negative effect on KDSS. In fact, it will likely enhance the stability and driveability all the way around. This is a great option for KDSS equipped 4Runners.

Brian
Brian
3 years ago
Reply to  Brenan Greene

Did you add UCA’s to get the caster settings to factory? I have a 2020 wKDSS

J H
J H
4 years ago
Reply to  Brenan Greene

What is the biggest tire I can go that allows me to still store the tire under the car? Thank you!

Brenan Greene
Admin
Scout
4 years ago
Reply to  J H

285/70R70 has been thrown underneath.

J B
J B
4 years ago

I just reserved my 2020 TRD 4R ORP non-KDSS and I’m struggling with this vs ToyTec vs Icon. Price is important but so is everything else. I plan on a front bumper upgrade and winch. I know the Icons can be ordered with heavier springs for different loads, etc. Would this system be as good after adding extra weight?

Cheers,

JB

Trevor - @adv_built
Trevor - @adv_built
4 years ago
Reply to  J B

Honestly, I would go with the Ironman 4X4 Foam Cell Pros. You can choose your spring rates. To me it rides better than an Icon and half the price.

J B
J B
4 years ago

Interesting. Thanks… got to do something, the ORP is finally here and that nose dive…whew!

Trevor Varney
Trevor Varney
4 years ago
Reply to  J B

Tell me about it. I had the front bumper, winch, skids and dual battery installed before my lift. I had less ground clearance than a Outback. Check me review on the Ironman. https://trail4runner.com/2019/12/17/ironman-4×4-suspension-lift-kit-4runner-install/

Eric Ellis
Nomad
4 years ago

Nice write up, Martin!

Did you have an alignment done after installing the lift? I ask because I’m curious to know what the post-lift caster numbers are, with stock upper control arms.

Eric Ellis
Nomad
4 years ago
Reply to  Eric Ellis

.

Andy Oleson
Andy Oleson
4 years ago
Reply to  Eric Ellis

Had my front end aligned after the install, but don’t have the numbers.

Eric Ellis
Nomad
4 years ago
Reply to  Andy Oleson

Ideally, you should have 3+ degrees of caster, in order to ensure that your 4R doesn’t “wander” on the road at higher speeds.

Sometimes this isn’t possible after a lift without aftermarket upper control arms, which have extra caster built into them. I have 4.3 degrees of caster in my front end, but am running Dirt King UCAs. My 4R tracks very well on the highway as a result.

Leo Conte
Leo Conte
4 years ago

Hey Gents, I just installed the same. I am currently very happy with the Eibach’s pro comp. However, in the future with my gobi rack and rear weight, I hope it doesn’t dip in the back. I email Eibach about the rear shocks to see if they can handle a 2″ icon spring, so we will see unless someone knows. I attached a copy of my lift alignment from firestone. Unlimited alignments 179.99$

alignment.jpg
Craig
Craig
3 years ago
Reply to  Leo Conte

Any word back on the icon 2 inch springs?

Adam J
Adam J
4 years ago
Reply to  Leo Conte

Ever hear back from Eibach?

Leo Conte
Leo Conte
4 years ago
Reply to  Adam J

I did and they suggested installing spacers. The rear Eibach shocks can handle up to 2”. I have heard great things about corn fed spacers.
They sell incremental sizes. 1/2 , 3/4, and 1”. That maybe an option once I allow my suspension to settle and see if I am dropping.
http://ozarkmountianlifts.com/4th-and-5th-gen-rear-lift.html

Dave G
Dave G
1 year ago
Reply to  Leo Conte

I’ve installed the 1” cornfed on top of this lift. Pretty happy with the outcome of it. I also tow a 23′ travel trailer with a WDH. She doesn’t sag at all. Actually looks quite level

Dillon
Dillon
4 years ago

One thing to take note of is version two of this kit is coming out this year. Adjustable front and rears! Their IG posts updates every so often.

I installed this kit of my 4Runner this year and have been loving it. When the back is filled with camp gear you will definitely get a little backwards rack, especially if you have a roof rack, sliders, etc. I’m hoping the adjustable rears will help fix that.

Andy Oleson
Andy Oleson
4 years ago

Just installed this system on my 2018 4 Runner (1/11/20) and couldn’t be happier, looks great and drives even better. I was able to install the front springs and shocks without having to remove the OCA but did disconnect the front sway to get more clearances. This setup is worth every penny. I put the front spring/shock setup on the second snap ring position in advance of a new bumper purchase.

John Bui
John Bui
4 years ago
Reply to  Andy Oleson

Hey did you ever get a bumper mounted? I’m doing this soon and wanting to mount a bumper too. Haven’t found any numbers showing what the 2nd/ 3rd ring will support as far as additional weight. Also do you notice a lean on the drivers side at all?

44
0
Questions or Comments?x
()
x