4Crawler Offroad

Ball Joint Spacers

Std. 1-1/2" Height, custom heights available

1986-1995 4WD Pickup/Hilux and 2WD/4WD 4Runner/Hilux Surf

1984-1995 2WD Pickup/Hilux

Also for T100 (1993+)2WD/4WD Pickup/Hilux and 1996+ Hilux 4WD (w/ front torsion bars)

Visitor # 88695 since 12.APR.2009

Contents:

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Description:

Ball Joint Spacers Various heights available
Toyota 4WD Ball Joint Spacers 1-1/2", 1",1/2" Spacers (L-R)
Ball Joint Spacer Installed 2WD Ball Joint Spacer Kit
4WD Ball Joint Spacer Installed 2WD Ball Joint Spacer Kit

These spacers are 1.5"/38mm tall and provide about that much front sus[pension lift over stock suspension settings as well as that much more overall front suspension travel. Actual front lift height will depend upon the vehicle's weight distribution and current torsion bar condition and adjustment which may be 1.5" more or less than the spacer height. Whether or not you prefer enhanced compression travel for high speed trips through desert washes or a balance between compression and extension travel more suited for rocky trails, these spacers will increase your functionality and ability to custom tailor your suspension characteristics while increasing clearance between the fenders and front wheels. If 1.5" is too tall for your needs, shorter spacers are available on special order. An installed 4WD spacer is shown on the far right hand image, above. And also available for the 2WD Toyota pickups as shown in the lower right hand image above.

When combined with a mild rear suspension lift, either a lift shackle or block or coil spring spacer, and possibly a mild body lift, it is easy and relatively inexpensive to fit 33" tires under an IFS truck. While a full 4" - 6" IFS spacer lift can be installed and will work fine for 33" tires, for less than 1/2 the price and less than half the time and effort, you can install a milder lift that will actually work better than the taller lift. In fitting with the 4Crawler Offroad motto of "lift as much as you need, but as little as possible", why use a 4" - 6" lift when 1.5"-2.5" will work just as well, if not better? With less lift, your center of gravity will be lower, driveline angles will be less, brake lines will usually not need to be extended, and overall there will be less stress on the components.

And if you want all the details, feel free to consult this web page for a detailed discussion of the Toyota IFS front suspension operation.

2WD or 4WD Spacers?

2WD Ball Joint 4WD Ball Joint
2WD Ball Joint 4WD (pre-runner) Ball Joint

In Other Words "Which Ball Joint Spacer do I need for my truck?"

In short, you'll want to look at the type of front suspension/ball joint is used on your vehicle (see the above two photos for the two types of front torsion bar suspensions that Toyota used). If you have a 4WD truck, the answer is simple, you need the 4WD spacer.

However, if you have a 2WD truck, then the answer is a little more involved. The 4WD spacers also work with 2WD trucks with "pre-runner" type suspensions. A pre-runner suspension is essentially the same as a 4WD suspension with the front drivetrain (differential and CV axles/half shafts) removed. This would include of the 2WD 4Runner and some T-100 models. Typically also fit the 1996 and later Toyota Hilux 4WD pickup models (non-US) that use the same torsion bar front suspension with matching ball joints (check dimensions below to verify proper bolt hole spacing).

The 2WD spacers are available for the earlier 2WD pickups and some 2WD T-100s (i.e. pre-Tacoma).

Which type to order? Compare the photos above with your truck's upper ball joint to find which type matches the shape of your vehicle's upper ball joint.

DISCLAIMER:

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On-line Ordering:

Shipping:

4WD Spacers:

NOTE: 4WD Ball Joint Spacers

1 Pair 4WD Ball Joint Spacers,
US Delivery
- Priority Mail/US only		 1 Pair 4WD Ball Joint Spacers,
US Delivery
- Express Mail/US only		 1 Pair 4WD Ball Joint Spacers,
Priority Intl. Delivery
- Telephone number required for customs paperwork
- Add phone number in the "Note To Seller" on order form
- Lack of phone number will delay shipment		 1 Pair 4WD Ball Joint Spacers,
Express Intl. Delivery
- Telephone number required for customs paperwork
- Add phone number in the "Note To Seller" on order form
- Lack of phone number will delay shipment
Notes:
Order with the above "Buy Now" buttons using major credit/debit card, bank eCheck or Paypal account.
eCheck orders are subject to a 3-4 day hold while the eCheck clears the bank
Please be sure to double check your shipping address before submitting your order:
Incorrect address will result in mis-delivery and re-shipment cost will be the responsibility of the customer.
Be sure to to print out a copy of the installation instructions below.
Printed instructions are not included with the spacers.
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2WD Ball Joint Spacers and Upper Control Arm Braces:

NOTE: 2WD Ball Joint Spacers

1 Pair 2WD Ball Joint Spacers,
US Delivery
- Priority Mail/US only		 1 Pair 2WD Ball Joint Spacers,
US Delivery
- Express Mail/US only		 1 Pair 2WD Ball Joint Spacers,
Intl. Priority Delivery
- Telephone number required for customs paperwork
- Add phone number in the "Note To Seller" on order form
- Lack of phone number will delay shipment		 1 Pair 2WD Ball Joint Spacers,
Intl. Express Delivery
- Telephone number required for customs paperwork
- Add phone number in the "Note To Seller" on order form
- Lack of phone number will delay shipment

And now available for the 2WD applications is a heavy duty brace for the upper A-arm. Hard off-road use puts stress on the upper control arms. This can cause the arms to fatigue. These braces strengthen that area eliminating the problem. They are made from 1/4" thick steel and powder coated to prevent corrosion. These are strongly recommended for any 2wd truck that sees hard off-road use. The A-arm brace can be used with the stock A-arms or with the addition of the ball joint spacers.

2WD A-Arm Brace Brace plus Ball Joint Spacer 2WD Brace + Spacer
2WD A-Arm Brace 2WD Brace + Ball Joint Spacer Brace + Spacer Installed
Cost:
The A-arm brace alone costs US$109.00 for a pair with mounting hardware.
Combine the braces with a pair of 1.5" tall 2WD ball joint spacers for US$199.00 + shipping
NOTE: 2WD Upper Contral Arm Braces - In-stock

1 Pair 2WD UCA Braces,
US Delivery
- Priority Mail/US only		 1 Pair 2WD UCA Braces,
US Delivery
- Express Mail/US only		 1 Pair 2WD UCA Braces,
Intl. Priority Delivery
- Telephone number required for customs paperwork
- Add phone number in the "Note To Seller" on order form
- Lack of phone number will delay shipment		 1 Pair 2WD UCA Braces,
Intl. Express Delivery
- Telephone number required for customs paperwork
- Add phone number in the "Note To Seller" on order form
- Lack of phone number will delay shipment
Notes:
Order with the above "Buy Now" buttons using major credit/debit card, bank eCheck or Paypal account.
eCheck orders are subject to a 3-4 day hold while the eCheck clears the bank
Please be sure to double check your shipping address before submitting your order:
Incorrect address will result in mis-delivery and re-shipment cost will be the responsibility of the customer.
Be sure to to print out a copy of the installation instructions below.
Printed instructions are not included with the spacers.

2WD Ball Joint Spacers + Upper Contral Arm Braces

1 Pair 2WD BJS+UCA Braces,
US Delivery
- Priority Mail/US only		 1 Pair 2WD BJS+UCA Braces,
US Delivery
- Express Mail/US only		 1 Pair 2WD BJS+UCA Braces,
Canada/Mexico Priority Delivery
- Telephone number required for customs paperwork
- Add phone number in the "Note To Seller" on order form
- Lack of phone number will delay shipment		 1 Pair 2WD BJS+UCA Braces,
International Priority Delivery
- Telephone number required for customs paperwork
- Add phone number in the "Note To Seller" on order form
- Lack of phone number will delay shipment
Notes:
Order with the above "Buy Now" buttons using major credit/debit card, bank eCheck or Paypal account.
eCheck orders are subject to a 3-4 day hold while the eCheck clears the bank
Please be sure to double check your shipping address before submitting your order:
Incorrect address will result in mis-delivery and re-shipment cost will be the responsibility of the customer.
Be sure to to print out a copy of the installation instructions below.
Printed instructions are not included with the spacers.
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Returns/Exchanges Policy:

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Custom Heights:

For the custom height spacers (i.e for heights less than 1-1/2"), cost is $129.00/pr. (4WD or 2WD) to cover the custom machining and hardware. Allow 1-2 weeks for custom machining. Click here for more information...

Custom height Ball Joint Spacers made to order

Height:

Type:

Height:

Type:

Height:

Type:

Height:

Type:
Custom Height Ball Joint Spacers,
US Delivery
- Priority Mail/US only, $8.00 shipping		 Custom Height Ball Joint Spacers,
US Delivery
- Express Mail/US only, $20.00 shipping		 Custom Height Ball Joint Spacers,
Intl. Priority Delivery, $14.00 shipping
- Telephone number required for customs paperwork
- Add phone number in the "Note To Seller" on order form
- Lack of phone number will delay shipment		 Custom Height Ball Joint Spacers,
Intl. Express Delivery, $39.00 shipping
- Telephone number required for customs paperwork
- Add phone number in the "Note To Seller" on order form
- Lack of phone number will delay shipment

Notes:
Specify the style and height desired (4WD/1" assumed") in the order form.
Order with the above "Buy Now" buttons using major credit/debit card, bank eCheck or Paypal account.
eCheck orders are subject to a 3-4 day hold while the eCheck clears the bank
Please be sure to double check your shipping address before submitting your order:
Incorrect address will result in mis-delivery and re-shipment cost will be the responsibility of the customer.
Note that for international shipments, package tracking information is limited.
If you wish to have a more trackable and fully insured shipment, select the Express International shipping option below, typical cost us US$39.00.
Be sure to to print out a copy of the installation instructions below.
Printed instructions are not included with the spacers.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Will longer shocks be required?
  2. Can I adjust torsion bars for more (or less) lift with these spacers?
  3. Can I use the ball joint spacers with larger than stock/aftermarket torsion bars?
  4. Can I use the ball joint spacers with a 4" - 6" IFS (drop bracket) lift kit?
  5. Can I use the ball joint spacers with a long travel IFS lift kit?
  6. How long does it take to install the ball joint spacers?
  7. How will the spacers be shipped and how long will it take me to get them?
  8. My country requires a Vehicle Alteration Document for this product, is that available?
  9. How do I level out the rear of my vehicle after installing the ball joint spacers?
  10. What is the difference between just cranking up the torsion bars or running the ball joint spacers up front?
  11. Are manual locking hubs required to use the ball joint spacers?
  12. Will these spacers fit my vehicle?
A1: Will longer shocks be required?
Possibly, yes, possibly no. It all comes down to the shocks that are on the vehicle now and how they fit with the existing suspension setup and how much lift you are going for. If the current shocks are on the verge of being too short to begin with, then likely any amount of lift will push them beyond their capability. If, on the other hand, the shocks are a little too long for the current setup, then they may have enough extra length to handle a modest lift.
The best option is to measure the compressed and extended shock lengths needed for the spacers once they are installed. Then order a shock that meets those needs. Here is a table of some common longer shocks that may be suitable. And here is a link to a good article on how to determine proper shock absorber lengths on a given vehicle. Typically, you would be looking for a front shock with a 10"-10.5" compressed length and a 15" extended length. Then use those dimensions to order shocks from a company that lists shocks by length, for example Rancho is one such company. Or, many shock companies list shocks by "lift", so you could order a shock for the approximate amount of lift you have, so perhaps a 0"-2" lift shock, for example.
Now, on a vehicle that is primarily driven on the street (i.e. not used off-road that much), then a shock that is a little too short may not be a serious issue. Since you are not routinely lifting tires off the ground on pavement, it is unlikely that you'll be extending the suspension to full droop and therefore not maxing out the shock travel.
Also, if the shock is close to fitting, you can see the installation instructions for tips on shimming the front shocks for a little extra extended length.
A2: Can I adjust the torsion bars for more (or less) lift with these spacers?
Realize that the ball joint spacers (and any susbsequent torsion bar adjustment) will only affect the front end ride height (i.e. lift) and not lift the entire vehicle.
In answer to the above question, yes, no problem doing that within reason. Some folks install the spacers and then take all the pre-load tension off the the torsion bars, netting almost no lift but increase suspension travel. Others crank the tension on the bars up for additional lift.
And on a related question as to how much lift will you see on your truck? It is hard to give an exact answer as each vehicle is different. Different engines, bumpers, winches, up front, torsion bars of differing degrees of wear and tear, different sized torsion bars, etc. So the lift you get is whatever you get when you install the spacers. One would assume that a 1.5" tall spacer should net about 1.5" of lift, but might be a little less since you are putting a little more load on the front end with the lift.
An interesting thing to note is that some vendors are advertising ball joint spacers as a 2" (or even 2.5" or 3") lift option. While that much lift is possible, realize that the spacer itself is likely to be only 1.5" tall. Any additional lift is accomplished via the torsion bars. 4Crawler Offroad has chosen to advertise the spacer by it's inherent height rather than some arbitrary height.
So how much overall lift can one expect?
Well, it all depends on you and how far you want to adjust your torsion bars and how you feel about the ride that results from that adjustment. Generally, with the IFS setup, the higher you crank the torsion bars, the harsher the ride gets. This is due to the increased angle of the control arms as well as the lesser amount of down travel in the suspension. So 3" total lift is probably the physical limit of the IFS components and you'll have 0 down travel as the a-arms will be jammed against the bump stops. 2.5" total lift (as some of the eBay spacer vendors advertise) is likely the highest useable height, but likely a pretty harsh ride to most folks. 2" total lift is likely somewhat decent and 1.5" and lower would give you stock ride and the most suspension travel. And realize that the higher you raise the front end, the more you'll be pushing the limits of the steering geometry adjustments (camber, caster and toe-in). So the higher you lift the front end, the more likely you are to run out of adjustment on the cams that set the front caster and camber angles. So if you find you can't get the front alignment right at a given lift height, lower the front height until it will align. This is especially true if there is some minor front end damage. For example, we had one customer report not being able to set his front end alignment after installing the ball joint spacers. Come to find out, he could not adjust it properly before the ball joint spacers were installed. Go figure!
And on a side note, why are ball joint spacers taller than 1.5" not made??
Because putting a spacer that tall would cause the angle on the front CV joints to be very steep at full suspension droop. Even at 1.5", you need to be sure and run stock height bump stops to limit the suspension's down travel to a safe level. It was found that most IFS front ends would start to bind with a 2" spacer installed, so the maximum height was backed off to a more reliable 1.5" height. Even so, owing to CV joint manufacturing variations, there are cases of CV joints that just show signs of binding at full droop with the 1.5" spacers. In this case, an easy fix is to install a front differential drop kit to lower the front diff and lower the angle on the front CV joints. So what would be the point of making a 2" ball joint spacer that would likely cause almost every set of CV joints to bind up at full droop? Also, tie rod end angles get steeper as the spacer height is increased as well as hitting the limits of adjustment on the front suspension alignment cams (this applies to 2WD and 4WD applications). So, 1.5" is the tallest practical spacer height that works well for most vehicles. And if you do want 2" of lift, there is no issue with turning up the torsion bars that additional 0.5" if your front axles will tolerate it. And that small a torsion bar lift will likely have no noticeable affect on ride, at least when compared to doing the full 2" lift with torsion bars alone. And adjusting the torsion bars is really not that difficult, just takes a couple of wrenches and you can set your front ride height as you please.
But if you just have to have a 2" spacer, we can set you up with an additional 0.5" spacer to add on top of the 1.5" spacer with some extra long bolts. Just order a 0.5" custom height spacer and the 1.5" spacer (total cost is US$228.00 + shipping) and we'll set that up for you. And we can supply you with the mounting hardware (for US$8.00) to revert to the 1.5" spacer so in case you find that the taller setup is too much for your front end, you can revert to the lower height. If you are worried about the two spacers slipping past each other, simply apply a coat of epoxy to the mating surfaces prior to installation and then once clamped down with the bolts, the epoxy will harden and the two spacers will become one. And interestingly, some other ball joint spacers vendors only supply stackable spacers in 1/2" thickness.
A3: Can I use the ball joint spacers with larger than stock/aftermarket torsion bars?
Yes, larger torsion bars work fine with the ball joint spacers. Some folks choose to run the spacers to allow the stiffer torsion bars to be backed off for a softer ride while retaining the same lift. Or you can adjust the bars to get increased lift.
A4: Can I use the ball joint spacers with a 4" - 6" IFS (drop bracket) lift kit?
Yes, the ball joint spacers work fine with the typical 4" - 6" IFS lift kits. Some folks choose to run the spacers to allow the torsion bars to be backed off for a softer ride while retaining the same lift. Or you can adjust the bars to get increased lift.
A5: Can I use the ball joint spacers with a long travel IFS lift kit?
Yes, some long travel IFS lifts work fine with the ball joint spacers, at least those kits that use ball joints that retain the stock mounting holes. There are long travel kits that replace the upper ball joint with a higher travel uniball joint and that does not use the stock ball joint mounting holes and those of course will not work with the ball joint spacers. Some folks choose to run the spacers to allow the torsion bars to be backed off for a softer ride while retaining the same lift. Or you can adjust the bars to get increased lift. One noteable exception is the Blazeland LT kit in that it basically incorporates something like a ball joint spacer on the end of the upper control arm and trying to add another ball joint spacer under that is likely to push the front end parts beyond their limits.
A6: How long does it take to install the ball joint spacers?
Typical installation time is about 2 hours, plus the time to have a front end alignment done.
A7: How will the spacers be shipped and how long will it take me to get them?
All shipping is via US Mail. Domestic Express Mail is typically 1-2 days delivery time, domestic Priority Mail is typically 2-3 days delivery time. For international shipments, Domestic shipments include US Mail tracking and insurance. In case of loss or damage, 4Crawler Offroad will be happy to file an insurance claim with USPS on your behalf. Once the claim is paid, a replacement set of spacers will be shipped at no cost. Or you can order a replacement set and upon claim payment, the original purchase price (less shipping) will be refunded.
For international shipments, Priority Mail International is used where possible, it takes 6-10 days typically. A delivery confirmation (tracking) number will be e-mailed upon shipment, but this information is not guaranteed to be updated on international shipments. Also, no shipping insurance is offered with this service. If more detailed tracking information or insurance is required, international Express Mail shipping (~5 day delivery time) is available at an additional cost, contact 4Crawler Offroad for more information.

A8: My country requires a Vehicle Alteration Document for this product, is that available?
Here is an Adobe PDF file with the product design features and safety aspects.
A9: How do I level out the rear of my vehicle after installing the ball joint spacers?
For the rear leaf sprung pickups and 4Runners, one common lift option for the rear end is a 2"- 3" longer than stock spring shackle.
For the rear coil sprung 4Runners, a 2" coil spring spacer makes a good way to level the rear end. Using a slightly taller spacer in back helps make up for the common rear end sag in the 2nd generation 4Runners.
A10: What is the difference between just cranking up the torsion bars or running the ball joint spacers up front?
While both techniques can provide the same amount of lift, the ball joint spacers will afford a softer ride and more suspension flex compared to the cranked torsion bars for a given ride height. Why? The more the torsion bars are cranked, the tighter they get and the less likely they are to allow for full travel. With the spacers, you get the added ride height of the spacers without the need to tighten up the torsion bars as much, so the suspension can flex more. As far as the suspension and steering components go, there is no difference in stress or wear and tear on them at a given ride height whether that be from cranking up the torsion bars or running the spacers. So running the spacers gives the advantage of increased suspension travel over simply cranling up the torsion bars. Of course the advantage of the cranked torsion bars is that it can be done at no additional cost.
And here is an in-depth discussion of the differences of cranked torsion bars vs. ball joint spacers.
A11: Are manual locking hubs required to use the ball joint spacers?
No, manual hubs are not required to use ball joint spacers. You may find that manual locking hubs will help to reduce wear and tear on the CV joints and boots if you have the Automatic Differential Disconnect (ADD) front axle. Why? With ADD, you have drive flanges on the front axle half shafts meaning the axles, CV joints and CV boots are spinning 100% of the time. With ADD, when you engage 4WD, an actuator in the front differential locks the the driver's side axle to the differential to make the front axle operational. With manual hubs, you can unlock the hubs when you only need 2WD operation and thus those CV joints and boots will not be spinning.
But with ADD, you do not have to give up the shift on the fly 4WD to have manual hubs? How is that? Simple, with manual hubs, if you lock them, you have exactly the same setup as the stock ADD drive flange, you can shift in and out of 4WD any time you wish. And no need for an expensive manual hub conversion kit like some vendors are offering. Just grab a set of manual locking hubs from an '86-'95 Toyota pickup or 4Runner and a few parts from the dealer and you are ready to swap.
A12:Will these spacers fit my vehicle?
Best to measure and see. There are two kinds of spacers that fit a wide varienty of Toyota 4WD and 2WD pickup and 4Runner models. See this section for full details on what to measure on your vehicle to see if these spacers will fit...
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