leveling spacers with a KDSS 4runner

Good day, I have a 2023 TRD off road Premium with KDSS. I would like to level it by putting Spacers on the front Suspension.

1st question would I need to do anything to the KDSS system
2nd question suggestion on spacer size for leveling?

thank you in advance for any advice.

 

I would never recommend a spacer lift to anyone.
Look into Bilstein 5100 front adjustable shocks. Set @ .85 on the front can give you the level stance your looking for while improving handling under braking.

https://www.4runners.com/threads/bilstein-5100s-pics-with-settings.12877/

 

agreed. do it right, no spacers

 

Spacers are fine if you're just looking for added height.

I can't recommend a particular brand, but I'd get the type that sits on top of the strut assembly rather than the type that preload the spring.

I'll also recommend maintaining a slight rake so that you don't end up with a squat when you're loaded down or towing.

 

Thank you for the advice, have never been a fan of spacers, new to the 4runner world, previously had 2014 Jeep willys and did full lift on that with Bilteins shocks, do not want to do that her just want to level the vehicle out some and improve ride. Bilstien 5100 sounds like the way to go.

 

You can also just add new coils on the stock struts, especially since it's new, and lift it with coils instead of preload (5100's method).

If it's all stock weight, these 1.5" coils would be what you need:
https://exitoffroad.com/product/dob...rings-for-toyota-4x4-trucks-and-suvs-c59-296/

Then do the KDSS reset, here:
https://exitoffroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/KDSS-Instructions-4Runner-Exit-Offroad.pdf

You "shouldn't" need any KDSS spacers after performing that set of instructions, but if you do, it's this one:
https://exitoffroad.com/product/front-kdss-spacer-lexus-gx460-5th-gen-4runner/

 

Leveling spacers are no bigger then. 5" which will lift 1" or less. I never had issues with these small spacers.

The problem comes with 2"-3" spacer lifts. Then your oem shocks will be to short.

 

I would advise people to avoid opening the KDSS valves unless it's absolutely necessary. I'm lifted with KDSS and have no lean, and have never touched the valves.

 

Its always based on luck. KDSS lean can come with or without lifting.
When it occurs the 4x4shop I go to also recommended the procedure Mike has shared above to correct the lean.
But I don't think spaces and spring changes to correct KDSS lean is wrong either.
I've also seen spacers used to reduce stress on the bushings with KDSS, didn't ask much about this one but something to ask from the shop if OP needs.
Speaking of shops, my biggest advice to OP, go to a Toyota specialized shop who knows how to lift KDSS 4Runners (& GXs)

 

Second this. If you don’t know what to do then it’s not that simple. I’m lifted, have one rear spacer, still had to open the valves to straighten her out.

 

Did it lean without the spacer?

 

It leaned more without it. Added the spacer to one side on the rear (forget which), from Dobinsons. Then opened the valves two turns and shook the truck. Level now

 

Were the valves opened at all during the installation? I just don't see how KDSS would cause a lean unless the valves had been opened, or the system was somehow compromised.

I understand the purpose of the spacers, but it seems like it would make more sense to put them on both sides. By only putting it on one side, you lose droop on the other side.

 

I think there is info on the Dobinsons site regarding kdss, a spacer, the need for it, and spring length as well as the angle of the rear sway bar. Lots of geometry to correct when lifting the kdss. I spoke with Dom as well - Sr KDSS himself to confirm. The valves helped it settle just right after the lift. Worked well for me. Not sure if that applies to others.

 

Were your valves opened during the lift installation? Or, only afterward to correct the lean?

Other than lowering the sway bar to compensate for the axles being lowered, I don't see anything that needs correction. Still, by putting a spacer only on one side, you are limiting droop on the other side.

I don't disagree with using opening the valves to correct a lean. My thought was to leave it alone unless it becomes necessary.