Science Serving Sick ToysTM
Under-Bed Extended Shock Mount Installation
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PLEASE READ all instructions all the way through BEFORE YOU START!
NOTE: These photos show the installation on an '84 4Runner with a 2-inch body lift and Dana 60 axles. HOWEVER, the same procedures and steps apply to ALL Toyota trucks and 4Runners with leaf-spring rear axles, with or without body lifts. Of course, a body lift makes fitment easier.
1. Position and tack weld the shock brackets as shown -- approximately one inch inboard from the U-bolts and with the bottom of the bracket level (parallel to the ground) and even with the bottom of the axle tube. Note that the shock tabs angle back slightly. Do not finish welding yet. The bracket may need to be repositioned.
2. Mark and trim crossbar to correct length:
A. Measure and mark the center point between the two shock bosses on the cross bar (arrow).
B. Measure distance between inside of frame rails just forward of the frame crossmember. Measure roughly where you'll mount the cross bar. IMPORTANT: be sure to subtract the thickness of the TWO mounting plates from your measurement. See photo above.
C. Set up a square as shown in photo above. The distance from the centerpoint of the crossbar (arrow) to right-angle of the square should be exactly HALF the total measurement between the frame rails (minus the two plate widths).
3. Double-check your measurements and make sure the main crossbar shaft is parallel with the bottom side of the square. Then mark and trim the crossbar ends as shown above. A chop saw works best, but a hacksaw works, too. Note that the cuts will be at an angle relative to the open end of the bar.
4. Position and tack weld the mounting plates. To find the right positions, we've found it's best to bolt the shocks on and trial-fit the crossbar as shown at right above. You have a good bit of front-to-back latitude. Up-and-down clearance depends on your body lift. Note the diagonal positioning. Most welders prefer this position to reduce stress on the frame. When you're satisfied with shock angles and clearance, tack the crossbar into place. Do not finish-weld at this point! In some cases, the right rear shock bracket may need to be cut off the frame and ground smooth.
5. Double-check shock angles and look for excessive bindup in bushings or Heim joints. You can hammer-tap tack welds loose to make adjustments, if necessary. Then remove shocks and finish-weld.
6. Here's an upper mounting plate and crossbar end after welding and painting.
7. When you've bolted the shocks back in and it all looks something like this, you're done!
Happy 'wheeling and thanks
for choosing A.O.R. products!