Upgrade Your 3rd Gen 4Runner Suspension with ARB and OME from 4 Wheel Parts

The 3rd generation Toyota 4Runner (1996-2002) is a legend in the off-road community. Its solid rear axle and strong frame make it an excellent platform for overlanding, rock crawling, and daily driving. However, the factory suspension leaves room for improvement, especially as the vehicle ages and accumulates miles. Upgrading to aftermarket suspension from ARB and its Old Man Emu (OME) line can transform your 4Runner's capabilities. 4 Wheel Parts is a trusted retailer for these components, offering both parts and installation. This article covers the key suspension upgrades for the 3rd Gen 4Runner using ARB and OME products available at 4 Wheel Parts, helping you choose the right setup for your needs.

Why Upgrade Your 3rd Gen 4Runner Suspension?

Stock 3rd Gen 4Runners suffer from sagging rear coils, soft front springs, and inadequate damping. Over time, the original shocks fade, causing excessive body roll, bottoming out over bumps, and poor off-road articulation. A suspension upgrade addresses these issues by:

• Improving ride quality: aftermarket coils and shocks provide better control and comfort on pavement and trail.
• Increasing ground clearance: a mild lift allows for larger tires and better approach/departure angles.
• Enhancing load capacity: heavier rear springs support bumpers, roof tents, and gear without sag.
• Reducing body roll: stiffer springs and valved shocks keep the vehicle stable.
• Boosting articulation: OME springs allow the axles to flex for better traction.

Understanding ARB and Old Man Emu (OME) for the 3rd Gen 4Runner

ARB acquired Old Man Emu years ago, but the brand remains the benchmark for 4x4 suspension. OME products are specifically engineered for off-road use, with different spring rates and shock valving for various vehicle loads and lift heights. For the 3rd Gen 4Runner, OME offers a comprehensive range:

• Coil springs: available in multiple heights and load capacities. Common front part numbers include 881 (stock height), 882 (2-inch lift, light load), 883 (2-inch lift, heavy load), and 884 (2-inch lift for ARB bumper). Rear coils include 906 (1.5-inch lift, light load), 890 (2-inch lift, medium load), and 891 (2-inch lift, heavy load).
• Shocks: OME Nitromax shocks are gas-charged, twin-tube design with a digressive valve for comfort and control. For a 2-inch lift, front shocks are OME 60070 and rear are OME 60071. For heavier builds, OME offers the BP-51 external bypass shocks, which are adjustable for compression and rebound.
• Steering stabilizer: OME 43007 helps reduce bump steer caused by larger tires and lifted front suspension.
• Hardware and accessories: OME provides coil spring isolators, bushings, and u-bolt kits to ensure proper installation.

Key Components for a Complete Suspension Lift

Coil Springs – Choose the Right Rate

Selecting the right coil springs depends on your vehicle's weight and desired lift. For daily driving with occasional off-road use, the OME 882 front and 890 rear provide a 2-inch lift with good ride quality. If you have an ARB front bumper, winch, or steel skid plates, step up to the 884 front coils to maintain ride height and prevent sag. For heavy rear loads (bumper, swingout, roof tent), use the 891 rear springs. Always match front and rear springs to avoid an uneven stance.

Shocks – Damping Control

OME Nitromax shocks are the standard choice for a 2-inch lift. They offer a firm but compliant ride on-road and excellent damping off-road. If you carry heavy loads frequently, consider the OME BP-51 shocks; they provide external adjustment for fine-tuning. However, for most 3rd Gen 4Runner owners, the Nitromax series is sufficient and more affordable.

Steering Stabilizer – Reduce Bump Steer

Larger tires and a lifted front end can amplify steering feedback. The OME steering stabilizer mounts to the tie rod and dampens vibrations, making highway driving more comfortable. It’s a simple, cheap upgrade that pays off.

Accessories – U-Bolts, Bushings, and Hardware

When installing new springs and shocks, replace worn-out hardware. 4 Wheel Parts stocks OME u-bolt kits for the rear axle and coil spring isolators to prevent metal-on-metal contact. New bushings for sway bars and control arms also improve articulation and reduce noise.

Choosing the Right Lift Height

Most 3rd Gen 4Runner owners opt for a 1.5 to 3-inch lift. A 2-inch lift is the sweet spot: it allows up to 33-inch tires with minor trimming, retains near-stock driveline angles, and doesn't require a differential drop or extended brake lines if you stay at 2 inches. For a 3-inch lift, you may need adjustable panhard rods, longer rear shocks, and a double-cardan rear driveshaft to prevent vibrations. If you plan to run 35-inch tires, a 3-inch lift is the minimum, but expect more modification. 4 Wheel Parts can help you select the right lift height based on your tire choice.

Installation Considerations

Installing an OME suspension lift is a moderate DIY job if you have basic tools, spring compressors, and a floor jack. However, many owners prefer professional installation to ensure proper torque specs and alignment. Key steps:

• Compress front coil springs safely to remove strut assemblies.
• Disconnect sway bars and axle for rear spring replacement.
• Torque all bolts to factory specs with the suspension loaded.
• Get a front-end alignment after the lift; adjust toe and camber if needed.
• Expect new springs to settle a half inch after a few hundred miles.
• 4 Wheel Parts offers installation services at many locations if you prefer a turnkey solution.

Where to Buy – 4 Wheel Parts Advantage

4 Wheel Parts is an authorized dealer for ARB and OME, meaning you get genuine products with warranty support. They carry everything from individual springs and shocks to complete suspension kits. Benefits of buying from 4 Wheel Parts include:

• Knowledgeable staff who can answer specs and compatibility questions.
• Online ordering with in-store pickup or shipping.
• Professional installation services at select stores.
• Frequent sales and bundle deals on complete lift kits.

Final Recommendation

For a 3rd Gen 4Runner that serves as a daily driver with weekend off-road trips, the ideal OME setup is:

• Front coils: OME 882 (light load) or OME 884 (with bumper/winch).
• Rear coils: OME 890 (medium load).
• Shocks: OME Nitromax 60070 (front) and 60071 (rear).
• Steering stabilizer: OME 43007.

This combination yields a 2-inch lift, improved ride quality, and enough load capacity for moderate gear. If you frequently carry heavy loads or tow, swap the rear springs for OME 891. For maximum off-road performance, consider the OME BP-51 shocks and a total of 3 inches of lift, but be prepared for additional modifications.

Visit 4 Wheel Parts to check current pricing and availability. Whether you buy online or in store, you can trust their expertise to get the right parts for your 3rd Gen 4Runner. A quality suspension upgrade transforms your 4Runner into a more capable, comfortable, and durable vehicle for years to come.