I want to lower my 81 on bags, the lowest it can go without cutting into the bed. I know 4 inch is about the most you want to go without a notch. Can I do a step notch and if so how big can I make it? Could I do a tube type step notch? I want to retain if not strengthen the frame as well. I want to keep it as functional as possible. What would be the best 4 link setup? Im guessing a triangulate 4 link setup would be the way to go. As for the bag setup I'm not sure how to make that work. I'm thinking the airlift slam air would be the best choice since I still want to haul and tow with the truck. I have no idea what to do with the front but from what I've seen looks like I just weld a support for the airbags and boom. Seems simple enough I'm sure I'm missing something. Any suggestions would be great and if I missed a thread with this info forgive my ignorance.
Bags = cutting the bed. Otherwise you can slam it static with a deep c-notch and keep everything under the bed.
What about this is the back and a bag setup in the front control by the same compressor. SlamAir | Air Lift Company - Tow and Haul with Safety and Comfort I would still be able to adjust it like normal bags or even air shocks would work? I'm fine with running 4 inch blocks and belltech leaf springs. I just want some kind of adjustment especially with me wanting the bag setup in the front.
I think I found my answer. http://www.toyotaminis.com/forum/build-up-project-threads-19/project-1971-hilux-5108/ He did exactly what I want to do.
My advice is do it once & do it right!! You will in time want it lower--- do the rear 8-piece notch(stronger,as can weld inside)!
I would say if you really wanna bag it, for all the rear frame and gas tank changes to be made, some tubs and a notch cover isn't too hard to do. Doesn't lose much bed space. The bigger issue is on any decent size tire (24"ish OD) it will hit the bed lips. So lots of research on these body style being bagged. Up front guys often swap to 85-95 control arms and spindles but there's some quirks and things to know about all that too. My vote is just get it as low as you can on stock sheet metal. Then put the $1500+ you'd spend on parts to bag if and build a nice motor or paint it or something else ya know. That's what I did. I only have about 250 bucks into my drop and that's cuz it's gone through phases. 6" drop wasn't enough for long so I went lower.
Swapping to the newer front components is on my list of things to do, just getting ahead of myself a little I don't want to tear into the bed at all. I think I know what I'll do till then I'll just drive how it is. Maybe I'll measure it up so how big of a tube type step notch I can do without going into the bed. I also plan on taking the motor out and refreshing it in spring, its all on the list. Just all in time. I believe in doing it right the first time!
You can always raise the bed floor up so its still functionable. Mines raised alot cause of the body drop an notch but you can do a small notch an just raise it up as much as you need too.
