How to Install King Shocks on Toyota Tacoma: Step-by-Step Guide

Upgrading your Toyota Tacoma with King Shocks is one of the best ways to improve off-road performance and on-road comfort. King Shocks are known for their high-quality construction and tunability, making them a favorite among off-road enthusiasts. This guide will walk you through the entire installation process, from preparation to final checks, so you can tackle the job with confidence.

Before you start, gather the necessary tools and ensure you have a safe workspace. You'll need a floor jack, jack stands, socket set, torque wrench, spring compressors, and basic hand tools. It's also a good idea to have a helper for lifting heavy components. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions included with your King Shocks kit.

Preparation and Safety

Start by parking your Tacoma on a level surface and engaging the parking brake. Loosen the lug nuts on all four wheels before lifting the vehicle. Use a floor jack to raise the front or rear axle, then place jack stands under the frame for support. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

For the front installation, you'll need to remove the wheels and then the factory strut assembly. Use a spring compressor to safely compress the coil spring before disassembling the strut. If you're replacing the rear shocks, access them from under the vehicle after removing the wheels.

• Always use jack stands rated for your vehicle's weight.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves when handling springs and shocks.
• Refer to the King Shocks manual for specific torque specs.

Removing the Factory Shocks

Begin with the front shocks. Remove the upper mounting nuts and lower bolts securing the factory strut. Carefully lower the strut assembly out of the vehicle. If you have a 2016-2023 Tacoma, you may need to disconnect the sway bar end links for clearance. For the rear shocks, remove the upper and lower mounting bolts and pull the old shock out.

Inspect the mounting points for rust or damage. Clean the area with a wire brush if needed. This is also a good time to consider upgrading other components like the Eibach Pro-Truck Stage 2 Shocks Kit for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma w/0-2.5" for a complete suspension overhaul.

Installing the King Shocks

For the front, assemble the King Shocks coilover by transferring the coil spring from the factory strut to the new shock. Use a spring compressor to safely compress the spring, then install the spring onto the King Shocks body. Tighten the upper nut to the specified torque. Install the assembled coilover into the vehicle, starting with the upper mount, then the lower bolts. Torque all fasteners to spec.

For the rear, simply position the King Shocks 2.5 Performance w/ Remote Reservoir Shocks Set into the mounting points. Ensure the remote reservoir is securely mounted to the frame using the included brackets. Connect the hose and tighten all bolts. Repeat for the other side.

• Double-check that all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Route the remote reservoir hoses away from moving parts and exhaust.
• If your kit includes adjustable damping, set it to the recommended baseline.

Post-Installation Checks and Test Drive

After installing all four shocks, reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle to the ground. Torque the lug nuts to spec. Before driving, check the shock bolts again for proper torque. Take a short test drive on a smooth road to ensure there are no unusual noises or handling issues.

If you experience a harsh ride or excessive bounce, adjust the damping settings on your King Shocks. Most King Shocks are adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the ride for your specific needs. For a comprehensive upgrade, consider pairing your King Shocks with other performance parts like the Bilstein 6112 Strut & Spring Set for 2021-2024 Ford Bronco 2 DR 4WD w/0.8-3.6" for other vehicles in your fleet.

• Re-torque all suspension bolts after 100 miles of driving.
• Check for fluid leaks around the shock seals.
• If you installed remote reservoir shocks, ensure the reservoirs are securely fastened.

Installing King Shocks on your Toyota Tacoma is a rewarding project that dramatically improves off-road capability and ride quality. By following this guide and taking your time, you'll ensure a safe and successful installation. For the best results, always use quality components and tools. Explore our selection of King Shocks and other top brands at Shocksurplus to find the perfect upgrade for your truck.