& Rear Coil Springs — 4wd Hilux & 4 Runner Ifs

The split between the Hilux (pickup) and 4Runner (SUV) is most apparent in their rear suspension setups.

A common characteristic of early coil-sprung 4Runners is "rear sag," where the factory springs lose their tension over time or when loaded with gear. This has led to a massive aftermarket for Old Man Emu (OME) or Toytec replacement springs to restore ride height and load capacity. Summary of Differences 4WD Hilux (Typical) 4Runner (Post-1990) Front Suspension IFS (Torsion Bar or Coil-over) IFS (Torsion Bar then Coil-over) Rear Suspension Leaf Springs Multi-link Coil Springs Primary Goal Payload & Towing Ride Comfort & Articulation Common Mod Heavy-duty Leaf Packs Lift Coils / Sag Correction 4wd hilux & 4 runner ifs & rear coil springs

The mid-1980s marked a radical shift in how Toyota approached its 4WD lineup, moving from rugged, utilitarian workhorses toward versatile vehicles that balanced off-road capability with on-road comfort. This evolution is most prominent in the transition from solid axles to and the move from leaf springs to rear coil springs . The Move to Independent Front Suspension (IFS) The split between the Hilux (pickup) and 4Runner