Intro
Off-roading enthusiasts know that having the right gear and modifications can transform a vehicle, allowing it to conquer even the most challenging terrains. For Toyota Tacoma owners looking to take their trucks to the next level, a Tacoma Long Travel Kit is a must-have upgrade.
This kit boosts suspension performance, improves handling, and helps you navigate rough trails with ease. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the features, benefits, installation, and top brands of Tacoma Long Travel Kits.
What is a Tacoma Long Travel Kit?
A Tacoma Long Travel Kit is a suspension modification designed to increase the wheel travel on a Toyota Tacoma, enabling it to handle rougher terrains with more control and comfort. By extending the suspension, this kit allows for better shock absorption, improved articulation, and overall enhanced off-road performance.
When installed correctly, a long travel suspension system helps prevent bottoming out on obstacles, offers a smoother ride on uneven surfaces, and enhances the vehicle’s stability.
Why Upgrade to a Tacoma Long Travel Kit?
Improved Off-Road Performance
One of the primary benefits of the Tacoma Long Travel Kit is improved off-road performance. With increased suspension travel, your Tacoma can handle obstacles such as rocks, ruts, and uneven ground without compromising comfort or control.
Better Articulation
A Tacoma Long Travel Kit allows for more flexibility in the suspension system, improving wheel articulation. This means the wheels can move independently over rough terrain, allowing the truck to maintain better traction.
Smoother Ride
The longer travel suspension system helps absorb impacts more effectively, reducing the chances of jarring bumps and providing a more comfortable ride on rough surfaces.
Increased Stability
By increasing wheel travel and improving suspension response, the Tacoma Long Travel Kit enhances the truck’s stability, especially when navigating steep inclines, downhill slopes, or uneven trails.
Key Components
Control Arms
The control arms in a long travel kit are usually extended to provide a greater range of motion. These upgraded control arms ensure the suspension components can move freely, reducing the risk of interference during extreme off-road conditions.
Shocks and Struts
Long travel kits typically include longer and more advanced shock absorbers. These shocks are designed to handle the increased travel and offer better dampening for improved handling and comfort over rough terrain.
Springs
Upgraded springs are often included in long travel kits to accommodate the extended suspension. These springs help the vehicle maintain proper ride height and provide the necessary support for off-road driving.
Sway Bars
Some kits include modified sway bars or sway bar links, which reduce body roll during off-road maneuvers. This ensures better handling and stability, especially in tight or uneven conditions.
Benefits of Installing a Tacoma Long Travel Kit
Increased Ground Clearance
With a long travel suspension, your Tacoma will have increased ground clearance, making it less likely to scrape the undercarriage on rocks, stumps, or other obstacles.
Enhanced Durability
The suspension components in long travel kits are often built from stronger materials, designed to withstand the stresses of off-road driving.
Improved Handling
With the ability to absorb shocks and bumps more efficiently, the Tacoma Long Travel Kit helps improve the vehicle’s handling on rugged trails, offering a smoother and more controlled ride.
Customization
Long travel kits are customizable, allowing off-road enthusiasts to choose components that suit their specific needs, from shock tuning to control arm options.
How to Install a Tacoma Long Travel Kit
Installing a Tacoma Long Travel Kit is a complex process that typically requires advanced mechanical knowledge. Here’s an overview of the steps involved:
Lift the Vehicle
First, start by safely lifting the Tacoma using a high-quality jack and jack stands to ensure the truck is stable during the installation process.
Remove the Old Suspension
Carefully remove the stock suspension components, including the shocks, springs, and control arms.
Install the Long Travel Components
Begin installing the upgraded components from the long travel kit. This includes the extended control arms, longer shocks, and upgraded springs.
Check Alignment and Adjustments
After the kit is installed, it’s crucial to check the vehicle’s alignment. Long travel kits may alter the geometry of the suspension, so ensuring proper alignment is key to maintaining handling and tire wear.
Test Drive
Once the kit is installed, take the vehicle on a test drive to ensure that everything is functioning properly. Test the suspension on rough terrain to make sure the long travel components are providing the desired performance.
Choosing the Right Tacoma Long Travel Kit
When shopping for a Tacoma Long Travel Kit, it’s important to consider factors such as your driving style, terrain preferences, and budget. There are various brands and kits available, each with its own set of features and benefits. Some popular options include:
King Shocks
Known for their high-quality shocks, King Shocks offers a range of long travel kits for the Toyota Tacoma. Their kits deliver maximum performance on tough trails.
Fox Racing Shox
Fox is another well-known brand that specializes in off-road suspension systems. Their long travel kits offer durability and excellent control in tough conditions.
Total Chaos
Total Chaos offers a variety of suspension kits for the Tacoma, including long travel kits that focus on improving wheel travel, handling, and overall off-road performance.
Camburg Engineering
Camburg’s long travel kits offer superior performance and reliability for off-road enthusiasts.
Maintenance and Care for Your Tacoma Long Travel Kit
Mechanic inspecting the suspension of a Tacoma long-travel kit, ensuring optimal off-road performance.
To ensure your Tacoma Long Travel Kit continues to perform optimally, regular maintenance is essential. Here are a few tips:
Inspect the Shocks and Springs
Periodically check the shocks and springs for any signs of wear or damage. Look for leaks, cracks, or broken parts that may affect performance.
Check for Proper Alignment
Long travel suspension systems can affect vehicle alignment, so make sure to regularly check the alignment and make any necessary adjustments.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Lubricate control arms, sway bars, and suspension joints for smooth operation.
Clean the Suspension Components
After off-roading, clean the suspension components to remove dirt, mud, and debris that could cause corrosion or interfere with the parts’ function.
FAQ
Q : How much lift does a Tacoma Long Travel Kit provide?
Ans : A Tacoma Long Travel Kit typically provides 2 to 4 inches of additional lift, depending on the specific kit and setup. This increased lift gives your vehicle better ground clearance for tackling obstacles.
Q: Is it difficult to install a Tacoma Long Travel Kit?
Ans:Installing a Tacoma Long Travel Kit can be complex and typically requires mechanical experience.If you don’t feel comfortable performing the installation, then you should have a professional install it.
Q : Will a long travel suspension affect my daily driving?
Ans : While long travel kits are primarily designed for off-road use, they can affect the ride quality on regular roads. The increased suspension travel might, however, make the ride a little firmer or more jarring compared to the stock suspension.
Q : Are long travel kits compatible with all Toyota Tacoma models?
Ans : Long travel kits are generally designed for specific Tacoma models, so make sure the kit is compatible with your truck’s year, model, and trim. Some kits may require additional modifications for certain configurations.
Q: How long do Tacoma Long Travel Kits last?
Ans: The lifespan of a long travel kit depends on usage, maintenance, and component quality. With proper care, these components can last for many years. Furthermore, regular inspection and maintenance can significantly extend their lifespan.
Conclusion
A Tacoma Long Travel Kit is an excellent investment for any off-road enthusiast who wants to take their vehicle to the next level. By improving suspension travel, increasing ground clearance, and enhancing handling, this upgrade allows your Tacoma to tackle even the most challenging trails with ease.
Whether navigating rocky terrains or rough backroads, a long travel suspension kit, therefore, can make your off-road experience smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
