85 runner with broken leaf springs...

[85ghettorunner]

My 85 4 runner has broken leaf springs, sits unlevel, and handles horribly.

This is my work truck and RARELY off roaded(however, still does happen occasionally). The truck is basically stock with exception of fiberglass front end and 32" tires.

I would like to replace ALL the leaf springs and have the truck sit level again. Dont need to get crazy or expensive, just want something that works FOR WORK!

My questions

1. What would be the cheapest/most practical way to go?

2. Can i use TRUCK leaf springs on my runner? Are they different? It seems like the same year trucks are much lower... Am i correct? i see tons of adds for 85 TRUCK leaf springs, but never know if i can use them or not...

thanks in advance, and please excuse my newby question.

[tldpro317]

YES, you can use the truck springs, when ordering a lift for an 85 i've never had to specify what model. if i were you i would look into procomp leaf springs, they are cheap, and new, they ride a little stiff, but most aftermarket do.

[85ghettorunner]

Thank you very much for the reply and pointing me in the right direction.

A 4" lift should clear 33's....right? Just barely/just enough

[85ghettorunner]

Sorry...How do i tell how much of a lift the truck already has? i dont see markings on existing leaf springs. I am trying to match the existing lift but have NO CLUE of what it is...

Can i measure axle to bed or something to get an idea of what is already on the truck? Also, i it has bilstiens and would prefer not to replace them.

[tldpro317]

I could tell ya by just sending a pic. also if there are any blocks on the rear(between the axle and the leaf spring) the lift will more than likely be the same as the height of the blocks, be advised though, it is not uncommon to fit 32's on a stock runner. 4" of lift will clear 33's very well, you should have a very minimal amount of rubbing, and it wont effect your steering or street performance too bad.

[carnauba]

I would go with that 3 inch all spring lift with new shocks ive seen it for around 300

[fourwd1]

85ghettorunner said:

My 85 4 runner has broken leaf springs, sits unlevel, and handles horribly.

2. Can i use TRUCK leaf springs on my runner? Are they different? It seems like the same year trucks are much lower... Am i correct? i see tons of adds for 85 TRUCK leaf springs, but never know if i can use them or not...

thanks in advance, and please excuse my newby question.

Yes, they'll bolt right up. The only difference between stock Runner and truck packs is the springs on the Runners were designed to give a softer ride, trucks to handle more cargo weight.