FJ Cruisers of Northern California

Newbie Tire, Lift and Body Mount Chop questions

Hi All,

I've had my FJ for 3 years but haven't done any mods yet. I don't plan on doing any super serious offroading but want to make a few changes for both looks and minor offroading.

1) Is there an OEM 3" lift? I called Dublin Toyota and the guy thought I was on crack and it was unheard of. Or is there a better way to lift the truck a few inches (mainly for looks)? Is there a way to stop that stupid nose dive when you hit the breaks?

2) I know it's been asked a million times but hard to get an answer... Biggest tire for my stock FJ with 17 inch alloys? Biggest tire for 17 inch wheels with 3 inch lift?

3) I live in Livermore and want to powder coat the rims black. Any recommendations for local shops that do a good job?

4) Body mount chop? Would I need it?

Thanks in advance...

Jim

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by daPitbull on December 3, 2010 at 11:09am

1) There is not an OEM lift (original equipment manufacturer) however there is an OME (Old Man Emu) lift. You're probably getting those acronyms mixed up. OME is farily cheap and effective for your purposes.There are many different ways of lifting your rig, it will depend on how much you want to spend. Figure OME is $700 for front and rear springs/shocks. There are cheaper alternatives, but those are open for debate.

2) Stick with a 33" x 11.5" tire and you'll be ok. (285/70/17)

3) No idea. Consider just rattle canning them so you can touch them up if they get scratched up.

4) If you stick with the tire size I suggested and stock wheels, probably not.

Oh, and welcome.

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Permalink Reply by Black Ant on December 3, 2010 at 11:15am

Awesome! Thanks so much for the help. Since the 285/70/17s will fit without the lift, I'll start there.

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Permalink Reply by daPitbull on December 3, 2010 at 12:18pm

I guess I misread your original post. You'll want the lift if you run 285/70/17 size. It will fit, but it will rub at full turns without a lift.

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Permalink Reply by Black Ant on December 3, 2010 at 1:03pm

Oh Thanks for clarifying. Where would one go to get a lift in the East Bay? I need new tires fast as I'm practically driving on slicks.

Any thoughts on leveling the truck or stopping the nose dive?

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Permalink Reply by magicthechemist on December 3, 2010 at 7:28pm

Get a lift online and talk to Bz here to have it installed.

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Permalink Reply by Bz on December 3, 2010 at 11:29pm

Thanks Magic, Ant call me up and we can work out when, where, and how...
Nine2five7zero5doublezerosix9

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Permalink Reply by Black Ant on December 4, 2010 at 10:32am

Thanks everyone for your help. BZ, I'll be calling you today.

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Permalink Reply by 5AND5TORM on December 4, 2010 at 8:56am

If you just want to level it get the Bilstein 5100's they will stop the nose dive. x2 call BZ for install.

photos shows FJ w/ 5100's installed, set on third adjustment notch.

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Permalink Reply by Black Ant on December 6, 2010 at 11:51am

Thanks for all the help guys. I called the guys down south that BZ recommended. Going with the 5100's all around and then spacers to lift the rear. Are spacers ok or do you guys recommend new coils? BZ will be getting a call again about the install!

I'll check out Mass Brothers as well.

You guys rock. Can't wait to meet everyone.