Which ARB Suspension Kit Is Right for Your 4th Gen Tacoma Build? MT64 or BP-51

[marie_arb]

If you're building a 4th gen Tacoma, suspension is the smartest place to start. It's the foundation every other mod sits on. The height to clear bigger tires, the travel to soak up the trail, the capacity to haul what you're about to add.

Whether you're still on stock and ready for your first lift, or you've outgrown a budget kit and want real performance, the goal is the same: a tuned and matched 4th gen Tacoma suspension system designed around how you actually use your truck. And we’ve got the best options for your truck.

Old Man Emu: The Best Suspension Options for the 4th Gen Tacoma

Every one of our kits is an integrated system, with coils, shocks, and valving tuned for your weight and use. For the 4th Gen Tacoma, we offer two options: the big-bore MT64 and the fully adjustable BP-51.

The MT64 is one of the largest monotube shocks on the market. Its big 2.8in aluminum body holds more oil for better heat control and consistent performance, on the trail or the daily commute. It stays smooth over everyday bumps, firms up the moment the terrain gets rough, and cushions the big hits you don't see coming.

The BP-51 is OME's flagship and the most capable shock we build. It's fully adjustable with 10 levels of compression and rebound, tuned right on the truck with no tools. The remote reservoirs hold extra oil to keep the shock cool on long days off-road, and its position-sensitive design blends highway comfort with off-road control.

Lift Height and Choosing the Right Configuration

Every 4th gen Tacoma kit in both ranges gives you 3 inches of front lift, enough to level the factory rake and clear larger tires. What separates the kits is how each one is matched to weight.

Up front, BP-51 coilovers are rated for a 0–330 lb front accessory load, so a bumper-and-winch combo won't drag the nose down. The rear is where you really tailor the kit, with configurations matched to the constant weight you carry: 0 lb for a mostly stock rear, 440 lb for a moderate build with a rear bumper and gear, or for BP-51 only, 880 lb for heavy rigs loaded down with gear.

You don't need to put your truck on a scale. Just think about how you'll use it. Will it be a daily driver, weekend overlander, dedicated trail rig, and figure out what you plan on constantly having in your truck. That points you to the right front and rear ratings. We'll go deeper on load ratings in our next post.

Upper Control Arms: When You Need Them

You'll spot some kits labeled w/UCA and some without. But do you really need to upgrade your upper control arms?

At 3 inches of lift the front geometry shifts, and ARB's matched upper control arms put your alignment angles back where they belong, free up ball-joint clearance at full droop, and toughen things up for hard trail work.

But we want to hear from you–who's running aftermarket UCAs on their 4th gen? Worth it or not, and why? Drop your take below.

Choosing the Right Kit for Your Build

Go MT64 for a big, do-it-all monotube you set and forget. This is the best option for overlanding, towing, and daily driving. Complete kits start around $2,280, or about $3,280 with matched UCAs.

Go BP-51 for on-the-fly tunability with 10 levels each of compression and rebound, adjustable right on the truck, and the sharpest performance OME makes. Complete kits start around $3,290 and top out near $4,290 with UCAs.

Whichever you pick, you're getting more than parts. Every OME kit is designed, tested, and built in-house by ARB and backed by our 3-year warranty.

Spec Your Build
Find your exact MT64 or BP-51 kits with the Old Man Emu fitment guide directly on our website. Got questions or need some guidance before you buy? Drop your build list and target weights in the thread, and we'll help you nail it.

And for those currently running any of our OME suspension kits, we would love to hear your feedback!

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[donttacoboutit]

I’ve got a 25’ Hybrid and plan on installing front winch + bumper that’ll equal to approx. 225lbs. I’ve also got steel RCI sliders which weigh about 95lbs each. In the back I’ll mostly have it empty except when I’m going out camping with about 200-300lbs of gear. Eventually I’ll like to be able to part-time mount an RTT in the bed, but not yet. I like the look of the factory rake, I’m looking at the MT64’s with matching UCAs. Any other specific I’d need to know about to dial in my desired look/outcome? Thanks for the post and for helping us out! Cheers.

 

[Rmarin4272]

I’ve got a 25’ Hybrid and plan on installing front winch + bumper that’ll equal to approx. 225lbs. I’ve also got steel RCI sliders which weigh about 95lbs each. In the back I’ll mostly have it empty except when I’m going out camping with about 200-300lbs of gear. Eventually I’ll like to be able to part-time mount an RTT in the bed, but not yet. I like the look of the factory rake, I’m looking at the MT64’s with matching UCAs. Any other specific I’d need to know about to dial in my desired look/outcome? Thanks for the post and for helping us out! Cheers.

Welcome to one of the fun parts! Analyzing every option and the excitement of finally choosing what’s right for you.

I just installed the MT64s a week ago and can already tell a world of difference. Check out my post about it and lemme know if you have any questions.

 

[Briscoelab]

Thanks for contributing! I have a few questions:

Which system would be a meaningful upgrade for folks with TrailHunter trim Tacomas?

Do you have a handle on the reduced lift height at TH would see? (assuming a ~1" reduction in the front?)

Any sense if the already upgraded upper control arms that come with a TH (or TRD Pro for that matter) would negate some of the need to switch to the OME UCAs?

I'm guessing some others have similar questions. But, I'm weighing options of getting a new system vs installing just new springs onto my TH coilovers and rear stand alone springs. Use case: 6' TH with a Go Fast Campers Topper (not camper). Daily driver that sees several trips a year with additional moderate load for gear (300-400lbs) and semi regular truck stuff uses that have 500-800lbs in the bed.

Thank you!

 

[marie_arb]

I’ve got a 25’ Hybrid and plan on installing front winch + bumper that’ll equal to approx. 225lbs. I’ve also got steel RCI sliders which weigh about 95lbs each. In the back I’ll mostly have it empty except when I’m going out camping with about 200-300lbs of gear. Eventually I’ll like to be able to part-time mount an RTT in the bed, but not yet. I like the look of the factory rake, I’m looking at the MT64’s with matching UCAs. Any other specific I’d need to know about to dial in my desired look/outcome? Thanks for the post and for helping us out! Cheers.

Hello!
We offer a few kits that would work for your setup. The biggest difference between all of our kits will be the spring rate. We talked about it briefly in this post, but we plan to go over it in more depth in the next post.

Since you mentioned you'll be doing a bumper and winch up front, I would recommend medium springs (220-330lbs). We also offer 0lbs up front, but with the added constant weight, I would suggest the medium springs. Now the rear is where it's up to you and your plans. A bed rack + RTT will be in the future; however, the setup will not be permanent. If that is the case, I would again recommend medium springs (440lbs). It will handle the weight better without any sagging. If it will be more permanent with a full bed build (drawers, gear, fridge, etc.), the heavier springs will be a better option.

With UCAs: https://store.arbusa.com/mt64-3-lift-kit-w-uca-for-tacoma-2024-front-220-330lbs-rear-440lbs/
without UCAs: https://store.arbusa.com/mt64-3-lift-kit-for-tacoma-2024-front-220-330lbs-rear-440lbs/

Let us know if you have any additional questions.

 

[marie_arb]

Welcome to one of the fun parts! Analyzing every option and the excitement of finally choosing what’s right for you.

I just installed the MT64s a week ago and can already tell a world of difference. Check out my post about it and lemme know if you have any questions.

Great job on the post, sounds like for the most part the install went well. Any feedback you have for our team to make it even easier?

We'd love to see some photos of your truck when you head out on the trail to really test out the suspension.

 

[marie_arb]

Thanks for contributing! I have a few questions:

Which system would be a meaningful upgrade for folks with TrailHunter trim Tacomas?

Do you have a handle on the reduced lift height at TH would see? (assuming a ~1" reduction in the front?)

Any sense if the already upgraded upper control arms that come with a TH (or TRD Pro for that matter) would negate some of the need to switch to the OME UCAs?

I'm guessing some others have similar questions. But, I'm weighing options of getting a new system vs installing just new springs onto my TH coilovers and rear stand alone springs. Use case: 6' TH with a Go Fast Campers Topper (not camper). Daily driver that sees several trips a year with additional moderate load for gear (300-400lbs) and semi regular truck stuff uses that have 500-800lbs in the bed.

Thank you!

Hello,
All great questions!

So the Trailhunter suspension is tuned specifically for the truck, as it is when you bring it home. There was some accounting for variable load (i.e., everything that comes and goes), such as gear and people. With that being said, you've added the GFC Topper, so that is something to consider.

You can either go with a completely new kit or upgrade the springs. If you're looking for a completely upgraded system, the BP-51 kit would be the next step up. This may be a bit of an overkill for a daily driver, but you'll see a huge upgrade out on the trail. Let me know if you're interested in more information about this kit!

In terms of springs, we do offer a few options:

• https://store.arbusa.com/coil-spring-rear-3325/
• https://store.arbusa.com/coil-spring-rear-3320/
• https://store.arbusa.com/coil-spring-rear-3319/

Regarding the reduced lift height, you have to keep in mind that the Trailhunter already sits higher than a base Tacoma from the factory, and a kit's advertised lift is measured off a standard truck, so on your TH, you'll net somewhat less than what is advertised.

Added weight plays in, too. Any permanent gear settles the truck a little, so the more constant load you carry, the lower it sits. The upside for your setup is that the GFC Topper is light, so that shouldn't impact too much.

And regarding the UCAs, the TH forged arms are stronger than what comes stock on any other trim, but aftermarket UCAs are really more so about geometry than strength, although durability is equally important. The UCAs correct caster and camber when you lift. Since your TH nets less front lift, there's a good chance you stay in alignment range on the factory arms if you upgrade the suspension. Of course, only an alignment after install will tell you if it's in spec.

Feel free to let me know if you have any other questions!

 

[Gaspe]

Currently building out a '26 OR with Alu-Cab, full armor, planned front bumper, winch, Powerbrakes Despite all the good things I have heard about OME and my affinity for Australia (an S African) gear, I'm hesitant on the BP-51s. I keep hearing that for any shock rebuild they have to be sent in to ARB. Hence putting the vehicle out of service longer I would guess. True?

Tim

 

[Briscoelab]

Hello,
All great questions!

So the Trailhunter suspension is tuned specifically for the truck, as it is when you bring it home. There was some accounting for variable load (i.e., everything that comes and goes), such as gear and people. With that being said, you've added the GFC Topper, so that is something to consider.

You can either go with a completely new kit or upgrade the springs. If you're looking for a completely upgraded system, the BP-51 kit would be the next step up. This may be a bit of an overkill for a daily driver, but you'll see a huge upgrade out on the trail. Let me know if you're interested in more information about this kit!

In terms of springs, we do offer a few options:

• https://store.arbusa.com/coil-spring-rear-3325/
• https://store.arbusa.com/coil-spring-rear-3320/
• https://store.arbusa.com/coil-spring-rear-3319/

Regarding the reduced lift height, you have to keep in mind that the Trailhunter already sits higher than a base Tacoma from the factory, and a kit's advertised lift is measured off a standard truck, so on your TH, you'll net somewhat less than what is advertised.

Added weight plays in, too. Any permanent gear settles the truck a little, so the more constant load you carry, the lower it sits. The upside for your setup is that the GFC Topper is light, so that shouldn't impact too much.

And regarding the UCAs, the TH forged arms are stronger than what comes stock on any other trim, but aftermarket UCAs are really more so about geometry than strength, although durability is equally important. The UCAs correct caster and camber when you lift. Since your TH nets less front lift, there's a good chance you stay in alignment range on the factory arms if you upgrade the suspension. Of course, only an alignment after install will tell you if it's in spec.

Feel free to let me know if you have any other questions!

Thanks for the info!

Do you sell any front springs that would work with the OME Trail hunter coil over shocks to provide a bit more front lift to match what your rear springs would give? I know there are other companies making compatible aftermarket springs and I'm trying to determine options if I want to retain the current front shocks for a bit longer. I've been extremely happy with those shocks and the collaboration between Toyota and OME/ARB on a lot of the train hunter parts (the rear pumper is also super nice).

 

[rchrds]

Hey @marie_arb, thanks for the post.

Also in a Trailhunter, with a Zenith bumper and winch up front, GFC topper on the back. I normally carry 750 lbs of cave diving gear across the back seats and bed and tow a small camper with a 250 lb tongue weight. I currently have AirLift airbags taking the brunt of the rear load, which work very well, but no solution for the front yet, which sags so much the swing arms are level with the skid plate.

Looks like I have two options-

1123K- MT64 with 330 increased capacity in the front and 440 in the back
1210K- BP-51 same capacities as the above kit, but have reservoirs to fit

Will all the hardware for the extra cylinder included in the 1210K kit fit on a Trailhunter?
Can I purchase rebuild kits for the shocks and oil reservoirs? Will the presence of the oil reservoir impact turning radius or tire size in the front wheel wells?

Thanks!

Hello,
All great questions!

So the Trailhunter suspension is tuned specifically for the truck, as it is when you bring it home. There was some accounting for variable load (i.e., everything that comes and goes), such as gear and people. With that being said, you've added the GFC Topper, so that is something to consider.

You can either go with a completely new kit or upgrade the springs. If you're looking for a completely upgraded system, the BP-51 kit would be the next step up. This may be a bit of an overkill for a daily driver, but you'll see a huge upgrade out on the trail. Let me know if you're interested in more information about this kit!

In terms of springs, we do offer a few options:

• https://store.arbusa.com/coil-spring-rear-3325/
• https://store.arbusa.com/coil-spring-rear-3320/
• https://store.arbusa.com/coil-spring-rear-3319/

Regarding the reduced lift height, you have to keep in mind that the Trailhunter already sits higher than a base Tacoma from the factory, and a kit's advertised lift is measured off a standard truck, so on your TH, you'll net somewhat less than what is advertised.

Added weight plays in, too. Any permanent gear settles the truck a little, so the more constant load you carry, the lower it sits. The upside for your setup is that the GFC Topper is light, so that shouldn't impact too much.

And regarding the UCAs, the TH forged arms are stronger than what comes stock on any other trim, but aftermarket UCAs are really more so about geometry than strength, although durability is equally important. The UCAs correct caster and camber when you lift. Since your TH nets less front lift, there's a good chance you stay in alignment range on the factory arms if you upgrade the suspension. Of course, only an alignment after install will tell you if it's in spec.

Feel free to let me know if you have any other questions!

 

[marie_arb]

Currently building out a '26 OR with Alu-Cab, full armor, planned front bumper, winch, Powerbrakes Despite all the good things I have heard about OME and my affinity for Australia (an S African) gear, I'm hesitant on the BP-51s. I keep hearing that for any shock rebuild they have to be sent in to ARB. Hence putting the vehicle out of service longer I would guess. True?

Tim

Hi Tim,
Thanks for reaching out! Yes, our BP-51 shocks are rebuildable. That said, they only need to be rebuilt if you notice any leaking. You can reach out to our team here for assistance in rebuilding the shocks.

I will say, for any rebuildable shock, you will need to remove it and send it in; this isn't specific to ARB. I personally have seen many owners keep their stock suspension and use it when their upgraded shocks need rebuilding.

We do offer the MT64 kit that isn't rebuildable. Paired with the correct springs, this setup will work perfectly for your build. It's a great option for those who are daily driving their vehicles and taking them out on the trail. If you plan on doing some pretty difficult trails, the BP-51 kit will be best.

Please let me know if you have any additional questions.

 

[Gaspe]

Thanks for the info! Hadn’t thought about hanging on to the old shocks…

 

[marie_arb]

Thanks for the info!

Do you sell any front springs that would work with the OME Trail hunter coil over shocks to provide a bit more front lift to match what your rear springs would give? I know there are other companies making compatible aftermarket springs and I'm trying to determine options if I want to retain the current front shocks for a bit longer. I've been extremely happy with those shocks and the collaboration between Toyota and OME/ARB on a lot of the train hunter parts (the rear pumper is also super nice).

Any of our springs are compatible with the TH shocks, but the exact amount of lift will vary depending on vehicle configuration and added weight. If you're trying to match the rear ride height while retaining the Trailhunter shocks, we'd recommend selecting a spring based on your current and future front-end weight (bumper, winch, skid plates, recovery gear, etc.) rather than targeting a specific lift number alone.

We just posted some information about our spring options and how to select the best one for your truck. Check out the post and let us know if you have any questions!

 

[Briscoelab]

Wonderful. Thank you.

 

[marie_arb]

Hey @marie_arb, thanks for the post.

Also in a Trailhunter, with a Zenith bumper and winch up front, GFC topper on the back. I normally carry 750 lbs of cave diving gear across the back seats and bed and tow a small camper with a 250 lb tongue weight. I currently have AirLift airbags taking the brunt of the rear load, which work very well, but no solution for the front yet, which sags so much the swing arms are level with the skid plate.

Looks like I have two options-

1123K- MT64 with 330 increased capacity in the front and 440 in the back
1210K- BP-51 same capacities as the above kit, but have reservoirs to fit

Will all the hardware for the extra cylinder included in the 1210K kit fit on a Trailhunter?
Can I purchase rebuild kits for the shocks and oil reservoirs? Will the presence of the oil reservoir impact turning radius or tire size in the front wheel wells?

Thanks!

Hello,
Thanks for reaching out!

Some of these questions may be better suited for our customer service team, especially the one regarding the hardware. You can reach them at 425-264-1391.

Regarding rebuilding the shocks, ARB does not offer any kits; you would need to fill out a form online and get them sent in once it's time for them to be rebuilt.

And the reservoirs should not impact the turning radius or tire size.

Please let me know if you have any additional questions!

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