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The ICON upper control arms are an easy fit into the factory pivot mounts with or without a suspension lift. We adjusted the arms in to get the camber within the factory specs and caster maximized within factory specs (more clearance). We set the rear lower control arm eccentric all the way out and the front eccentric half-way to optimize the wheel position.
For the rear, we elected to use the ICON 2.5” diameter shocks with 5” piggyback reservoir for added heat dissipation. They are very similar in construction to the front coilover. The lower mounting point of the shock contains a COM12 spherical bearing to minimize deflection. Again, even the smallest component is built to enhance the entire system. Also seen here is the mount point of the billet lateral arm as well as ICON’s 2” lift coil-springs.
This is the factory lower link / lateral arm. Honestly, this OEM piece seems tough and rugged; that is, until contrasted with that of the ICON prescription.
This is not the relatively flimsy factory lower link. This is ICON’s Billet Aluminum Rear Trailing Arm. It is surprisingly light. It is tough, with a load rating of over 40,000lbs of pressure and recoverable JM16T rod ends and Johnny Joint pivots. It is also easily adjustable with ICON’s pinch housing (just above the logo and to the left) that are also found on their Upper Control Arms. It is armored. Wait, armored? Yes, ICON ingeniously placed a nylon rock slider along the leading edge of the arm. If you look closely, you can see along the bottom of the arm. It is important. Pinion angle and minimal deflection are imperative when it comes to maintaining proper suspension geometry while traversing your chosen path.
A little assistance was required during the installation from our 1 year old, Rhys.
Here she is now. Part one of this adventure is in the books! What do you want to see out of this build? We are quite new to our 5th Generation 4Runner and want your feedback! Of course, we aren’t stopping here with the modifications. The next steps will be some shaping up of the current issues (tires scrubbing) and then deciding on the armor – new bumper, sliders and skid plates. Photo credit to Brandon Campbell and Jonathan McWhorter
