Grandpa needs a softer ride.

I should have joined a long time ago, and thanks for having me. I have a 2006, V6, Sport, Tow package, AND the X-Reas shock system. So all that stiff suspension served me well, when I had an RV trailer, living in the wild boonies, go lightly off road. But now I'm settled down, retired near the city, only tow my skinny motorcycle trailer, no longer go off-road with it, no longer needing all that stiffness, my back and old surfer cracked ribs, at age 68, needs a rest. I recently contemplated selling it for a softer riding vehicle, but it's been so great, with 130k miles, is hard to part with. What's a brother to do? I've heard remove the xreas system, go Bilsteins, with Michelins all around? But that gets expensive... Any cheaper alternatives? THANKS FOR ANY HELP

 

Great question. I hate answering questions with questions, but to others here in the know, are there any progressive rate springs out there that provide a softer ride for normal stuff, but stiffen up more upon compression? Or are all the aftermarket choices out there already progressive?

 

@Crikeymike, do you have any advice for our friend?

 

My advice as a 5th gen former XREAS driver, don't go cheap on your replacement suspension.

 

I thought for the 4Runner the X-reas was the softest ride offered (at least on 5th Gens)? I would keep her personally and figure something out. Sounds like she is just getting broken in with 130k.

 

My understanding and experience as well.
My Bilsteins, OME sports, Ironman FCP, TRD Pro Fox, ELKA 2.5DC did not ride good on pavement as XREAS did.

Off pavement a different story. With ELKA 2.5DC both me and mrs was talking "wow, this is shock absorbing"

 

SL (or P) rated tires go a long way with making things comfortable. Michelin LTX M/S would be a great tire for you. But if you're not able to buy new tires at the moment, maybe air your tires down to 32psi (if they aren't already).

Offroad shocks will not make your vehicle ride softer. Stock shocks are probably the best option for your situation. You might be due to replace them. If Xreas is still working, then keep it. If it's not, then rip it out and don't worry about replacing it. Too expensive and your truck will work just fine without it.

 

Dobinsons twin tube kit with comfort rear shocks really do ride great. They're softer than OME for sure as I've had both on my 4runner and they're also softer than the monotube shocks I've ridden in.

https://exitoffroad.com/product/dobinsons-1-to-3-5-lift-kit-toyota-4runner-4x4-2003-2009/

That page shows all the options. You can even go with a very mild lift too if you'd like