[YotaSE17]

I have a 2019 AWD w 20K miles and recently did my lift. I did a 2" traxda strut spacer up front and 1" taller, 15 percent stiffer CCS springs in the rear. CCS nailed it and was able to build exactly what I asked for. My van is now level at the trim height (same height from the ground to the top of the wheel wells). I purposely avoided using the rear traxda spacer because I didnt want the near 2" of lift most are getting. My theory with only lifting the rear 1" is for a couple of reasons. First, by doing 1" of lift I am able to use the stock rear shocks with spacers (3 5/8" washers) and so far I'm not having any top out issues. I prefer the OEM shocks as they are stiffer and offer more dampening then the monroe 37301. Second reason was to avoid rear alignment or tire wear issues. The rear tires of the sienna are set up stock with negative camber. The more you lift the rear of the sienna, the more the negative camber turns to positive toe or toe in. After getting my aligntment done post lift, everything was still in spec to toyotas alignment allowances.

When I do front struts down the road Im definitely going to consider using the front stock AWD springs with SE front struts. I like the idea of the sportier dampening to help control the front of the lifted sienna. Im not sure if the SE Struts have the extension and stroke length as the AWD struts. If someone knows that answer please let us know...

 

[Jw35180]

I have a 2019 AWD w 20K miles and recently did my lift. I did a 2" traxda strut spacer up front and 1" taller, 15 percent stiffer CCS springs in the rear. CCS nailed it and was able to build exactly what I asked for. My van is now level at the trim height (same height from the ground to the top of the wheel wells). I purposely avoided using the rear traxda spacer because I didnt want the near 2" of lift most are getting. My theory with only lifting the rear 1" is for a couple of reasons. First, by doing 1" of lift I am able to use the stock rear shocks with spacers (3 5/8" washers) and so far I'm not having any top out issues. I prefer the OEM shocks as they are stiffer and offer more dampening then the monroe 37301. Second reason was to avoid rear alignment or tire wear issues. The rear tires of the sienna are set up stock with negative camber. The more you lift the rear of the sienna, the more the negative camber turns to positive toe or toe in. After getting my aligntment done post lift, everything was still in spec to toyotas alignment allowances.

When I do front struts down the road Im definitely going to consider using the front stock AWD springs with SE front struts. I like the idea of the sportier dampening to help control the front of the lifted sienna. Im not sure if the SE Struts have the extension and stroke length as the AWD struts. If someone knows that answer please let us know...

Any suspension, cv joint issues, usual noises or mysterious bumps. I agree, a lift In moderation is probably/may be best. I assume the washers are placed on top of the shock and not under the nut.

I’d second any feedback regarding the se shocks. As the highlander shares many of the sienna components. Has anyone used or researched highlander struts shocks on the Sienna, or is that a bridge too far

 

[YotaSE17]

Any suspension, cv joint issues, usual noises or mysterious bumps. I agree, a lift In moderation is probably/may be best. I assume the washers are placed on top of the shock and not under the nut.

I’d second any feedback regarding the se shocks. As the highlander shares many of the sienna components. Has anyone used or researched highlander struts shocks on the Sienna, or is that a bridge too far

No issues... It rides a bit stiffer but in a good way. Its quiet, tight, and no vibrations, nothing. My van was pretty fresh when I did the lift. I also did new tires and wheels. Yeah, washers on the shock body between the shock and the body of the van. I get the feeling from seeing other peoples feedback if your van has any issues a lift tends to bring those issues to the surface. I have loosely read somewhere the highlander struts and shocks will not cross over into the sienna...

 

[Oldwolf]

I used the Traxda supplied shock washers alos, no problems to report at this point. This weekend I am heading to one of our National Forests and will report back if I feel the shocks topping out.

 

[Jw35180]

No issues... It rides a bit stiffer but in a good way. Its quiet, tight, and no vibrations, nothing. My van was pretty fresh when I did the lift. I also did new tires and wheels. Yeah, washers on the shock body between the shock and the body of the van. I get the feeling from seeing other peoples feedback if your van has any issues a lift tends to bring those issues to the surface. I have loosely read somewhere the highlander struts and shocks will not cross over into the sienna...

No issues... It rides a bit stiffer but in a good way. Its quiet, tight, and no vibrations, nothing. My van was pretty fresh when I did the lift. I also did new tires and wheels. Yeah, washers on the shock body between the shock and the body of the van. I get the feeling from seeing other peoples feedback if your van has any issues a lift tends to bring those issues to the surface. I have loosely read somewhere the highlander struts and shocks will not cross over into the sienna...

Yota,

this is a great forum, its helping me to inch forward with my lift. Mike at Journey is great but, the 3.5” lift is a bridge to far for me. But there’s Another twist, Kendall Toyota in Bend Oregon has done 30 Journeys lifts with more coming, they provide a warranty, not sure what it is

As for your lift did you have a mechanic do the work.

Some reported issues with the sway bar link and used the Godspeed Universal Adjustable Swaybar Sway Bar End Link to address the problem

Did you consider longer front springs with the same spring rate instead of the traxda lift

Have you taken your Sienna to a Toyota dealership to review the work done and if they identified any potential issues. I have 90k on my 2013 AWD Sienna i was considering the replacement of the struts snd cv joints even though there aren’t any issues. I thought replacing those components while the van is under the knife it made sense

thx, I appreciate your willingness to address my questions
jim

 

[YotaSE17]

Yota,

this is a great forum, its helping me to inch forward with my lift. Mike at Journey is great but, the 3.5” lift is a bridge to far for me. But there’s Another twist, Kendall Toyota in Bend Oregon has done 30 Journeys lifts with more coming, they provide a warranty, not sure what it is

As for your lift did you have a mechanic do the work.

Some reported issues with the sway bar link and used the Godspeed Universal Adjustable Swaybar Sway Bar End Link to address the problem

Did you consider longer front springs with the same spring rate instead of the traxda lift

Have you taken your Sienna to a Toyota dealership to review the work done and if they identified any potential issues. I have 90k on my 2013 AWD Sienna i was considering the replacement of the struts snd cv joints even though there aren’t any issues. I thought replacing those components while the van is under the knife it made sense

thx, I appreciate your willingness to address my questions
jim

I heard about Kendall installing the JOR lift and it does add a certain amount of credibility to the JOR lift. The ticket price is insane. I had a mechanic do the work on my van. Before I did the lift I called and asked toyota if a lift will void the warranty. They said it may void the warranty on the items immediately effected by the lift (shocks, struts, etc), but the big ticket items are still covered. I could live with that answer... I did plenty of research and I know of the potential issues...altering a car is not for everyone and you may have to work thru some issues.

Godspeed links are the answer to the fact that JOR supplies a moog link with the bolts facing the same direction. Some have complained about the godspeed link coming loose.

Longer front coils springs will not work with the stock struts. Not enough travel...

New struts and cv/axles while doing the lift, you should be golden. Get the toyota brand axles. They are the most balanced and reliable as opposed to some of the aftermarket brands that have come out of balance and caused a vibratrion straight out of the box...

 

[Jw35180]

I heard about Kendall installing the JOR lift and it does add a certain amount of credibility to the JOR lift. The ticket price is insane. I had a mechanic do the work on my van. Before I did the lift I called and asked toyota if a lift will void the warranty. They said it may void the warranty on the items immediately effected by the lift (shocks, struts, etc), but the big ticket items are still covered. I could live with that answer... I did plenty of research and I know of the potential issues...altering a car is not for everyone and you may have to work thru some issues.

Godspeed links are the answer to the fact that JOR supplies a moog link with the bolts facing the same direction. Some have complained about the godspeed link coming loose.

Longer front coils springs will not work with the stock struts. Not enough travel...

New struts and cv/axles while doing the lift, you should be golden. Get the toyota brand axles. They are the most balanced and reliable as opposed to some of the aftermarket brands that have come out of balance and caused a vibratrion straight out of the box...

Yota thx

2” trax front (Longer front coils springs will not work with the stock struts. Not enough travel)
Rear 1" taller, 15 percent stiffer CCS springs
use stock rear shocks, kyb ? (replace those as well), with recommended washers
new struts (kyb)
toyota cv/axles

Does that sound about right

thx again,

i’ll update the group when done
jim

 

[YotaSE17]

Yota thx

2” trax front (Longer front coils springs will not work with the stock struts. Not enough travel)
Rear 1" taller, 15 percent stiffer CCS springs
use stock rear shocks, kyb ? (replace those as well), with recommended washers
new struts (kyb)
toyota cv/axles

Does that sound about right

thx again,

i’ll update the group when done
jim

Sounds like a good start and possibly a finish. I say that because if your van has any issues or worn out parts, the lift will likely bring those issues to the surface. Motor mounts, lower control arms, sway bar bushings, rear axle bushings to name a few parts that will be good or need replacing.

The rear coi springs I spec'd to my van and for my purposes.. My van sat 1" higher in the rear so 1" made it level. I use it as a cargo van for mountain bikes and surfboards. I dont carry heavy loads, dont tow, dont have any kids, and wanted the rear to ride a tad more firm. CCS can make you whatever fits your needs. Measure your van and see what works for you. Siennas tend to vary quite a bit in ride height and front and rear height differential.

KYB stock rear shocks may work if your rear lift isnt too drastic. If they top out on extension you may need the monroe shocks. My rear is at 33" at the trim height (ground top of the wheel well) with 29" tires. I havent taken it in the dirt yet but so far around town there aren't any issues...

 

[Jw35180]

I used the Traxda supplied shock washers alos, no problems to report at this point. This weekend I am heading to one of our National Forests and will report back if I feel the shocks topping out.

morning,

Any news to report from your National Forests offroad adventures. Unexpected noises, shocks bottoming out, steering or suspension issues
th
jim

 

[Oldwolf]

morning,

Any news to report from your National Forests offroad adventures. Unexpected noises, shocks bottoming out, steering or suspension issues
th
jim

I dispersed camped in Pisgah National Forest last weekend. No issues to report. Van ran fine and my MPG seems to not have been impacted. Got 27mpg+ cruising on the interstate on my way there and 28+ on my way back. Climbing up mountains always sucks the fuel so I didn't include that portipn in my calculation. Ran into a snowstorm while on Mt Michell.

 

[Jw35180]

Oldwolf great news on your field test. What components did you use for your lift

 

[Oldwolf]

Other than the Traxda kit - the only extra parts were-
2x MOOG K90344 Stabilizer Bar Link
1x Specialty Products Company 81290 EZ Cam XR 17mm Adjuster Bolt - Pair

The installer was able to use the shock spacers so I did not have to install the longer Monroe shock absorbers (yet). I haven't felt them topping out so far, but if they do I will know what to do.

Results:
Left Front +2.5
Right Front +2.375
Left Rear +2.175
Right Rear + 1.925

 

[Jw35180]

Olewolf,

Great report. i talked with Greg at traxda regarding and comparing the various lifting options. Surprisingly he said the issue wasn’t the front end lift the challenge was the rear. He stays away from our forum as he thought it was too much noise, but I’m sure he listens. I do plan to summarize our experiences and forward them to him. If he responds I’ll update the group. He also said that the Sienna and Odyssey lifts were their most popular orders

Olewolf, what were your reasons for using the additional parts.

As i have 90k on my van. I’m going to mirror your efforts but will include the replacement of struts, axles, cv joints and rear shocks (monroe). I’m opting to increase the length (1”) and spring rate of the rear springs instead of using the traxda rear lift.

thx again for your thoughtful replies. They help and inform me and I’m sure the group enormously

 

[Oldwolf]

The OEM camber bolts did not allow for enough adjustment and the installer said the replacement bolts allowed him to bring the alignment into specifications.
The new crosslinks are 2" longer than OEM which compensates for the 2" gained in lift. Otherwise the sway bar will be offset 2" from normal.
The installer reviewed the Traxda website and videos and said the kit was one of the better designed ones he has seen. He liked that they talked about suspension geometry considerations. He has seen imported kits that are not safe and will not install them.

 

[Rfk]

When my Traxda lift was installed, shop had to dial up for some Highlander links. But nothing about needing camber bolts.

Is this a one-or-other thing?

 

[Jw35180]

Rfk,
i thought the megan racing bar only worked with the fwd sienna. Was it a bolt on or did it require some tweaking. End result, was it worth it ?

 

[Rfk]

Rfk,
i thought the megan racing bar only worked with the fwd sienna. Was it a bolt on or did it require some tweaking. End result, was it worth it ?

Its a strut tower bar, fits behind the wiper cowling. Bolted right on, no surprises. Sway bars are FWD only.

I got it sub-$100 on eBay, so why not? But I had it installed same time as lift + spacers, so hard to isolate its impact. But steering certainly felt no worse, and wife complained that it was "too tight". So there you go...

 

[Jw35180]

Last question to the group. I have two long trips planned for this year if we’re allowed across the Canadian border. One taking that Dalton hwy to the Arctic circle and two a trip to Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and off course wondering the American West. I frequently rack up 20k+ miles. Would the potentially compromising lift give you pause when taking long road trips. The Dalton Hwy is very isolated road. Not all asphalt, a lot of hardpack. I have no intention of doing serious offroad, only access to areas (forest roads and BLM land) that would benefit from the traxda lift. In the end, It is a car, not a tacoma. I understand its limitations

 

[floridanative]

I would have no concerns whatsoever taking my stock height FWD gen2 Sienna on both the Dalton and Trans-Lab highways. Only thing I would change is to switch to a more rugged A/T tire with exact matching spare.

-Mike

 

[Jw35180]

Thx Mike my thoughts as well, still not sure about a lifted AWD sienna though. With care and a shovel you can go many places with a stock height sienna. I see more 4x4 trucks than I can count stranded on the road in a Minnesota snow /ice storm. I’d love to lift mine a bit, stranded in the boonies of Alaska or the dalton hwy is the noise that rumbles in my head though. I updated to falken AT 235 60 tires, no rubbing. Their a marvel in a Minnesota snow storm, i can climb snowy steep hills where crossovers struggle with relative ease. I gained just short of 3/4” in height and they ride like a dream, lost some MPG though. Now, a good skid plate that would be great. I added a full size tire mounted to a Wilco tire carrier, not cheap but very well made

Anyone in the group truck the Dalton HWY