Front shock/struts

[jpmac]

I just bought a 2001 tacoma per runner/trd. The shocks are shot and I am confused , are the front shocks or struts and if they are struts does the frontend need to be realined??

[Splicer]

You posted in the Tacoma forum, which is for 2005+ Tacomas... your 2001 would be in the 1 Gen-Tacoma forum. But since you're here, and I believe the basic layout is the same, they are coilover shocks, not struts. You'll need a spring compressor to change the shocks, but as long as you don't get pre-loaded shocks to alter your ride height, you won't need an alignment.

Here's a thread that should be helpfull. Shock replacement


Edit: Where are my manners? Welcome to TS from N. Calif!

[dyogim]

The front are struts and the rear are shocks.

Struts bear the load of the vehicle and emcompass a shock with a coil spring around it. Shocks do not bear the load of the vehicle.

BTW - I moved the thread to the 1 Gen Tacoma forum.

[Splicer]

Originally Posted by dyogim

The front are struts and the rear are shocks.

No, sorry, not correct at all. The thread I linked in my post above has a couple illustrations that should help clear up any misconception.

Struts bear the load of the vehicle and emcompass a shock with a coil spring around it. Shocks do not bear the load of the vehicle.

This is correct, and the front shocks on the Tacoma do not bear the weight of the vehicle. Again, refer to the link I posted. Tacoma's front shocks are coilovers, but are clearly not struts. Tacomas have a double A-arm (or double wishbone, if you prefer) front suspension with coilover shocks.

[dyogim]

Coilover or strut is a short term for "coil spring over strut" or "coil-over-oil"

Simply put a strut is just different version of a shock. So, yes the front end uses a shock but, in a different way.

"Struts are simply shock absorbers used as major structural members. For struts, the shock absorber is placed inside the coil spring." - edmunds.com

In order to not further debate (which is a good one that has been long discussed). I'll stop by saying we are both correct. Just using the terms differently.

jpmac - to your alignment question. It's recommended to have it checked after you replace your shock/strut. Some places won't even charge you if the front end is still within spec.

[Splicer]

It's all good, agree to disagree as to terminology is fine with me. I realize that a lot of folks, including some in the business who should know better, commonly refer to any coilover shock as a strut, even though it bears no weight.

Final illustration, if anyone missed it (or if anyone cares)

Double A-Arms with coilover shock:


Strut:

[lelandstanford]

In simple term. With four wheels off the ground. If the strut is removed, the geometry of the suspension will be out of range (other than travel).

[TOYTEC LIFTS.COM]

you should just lift your truck and make it easy...