Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro suspension. If you're a Tacoma enthusiast or just curious about what makes the TRD Pro stand out, you're in the right place. We’ll cover everything from its components to its performance and why it matters. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What Makes the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro Suspension Special?

When we talk about the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro, the suspension is one of the key features that sets it apart from the standard models. The TRD Pro suspension isn't just about looking cool; it's engineered to provide superior off-road performance and a comfortable ride. The magic lies in the components and how they work together.

First off, the front suspension features 2.5-inch FOX Internal Bypass shocks. These aren't your run-of-the-mill shocks. Internal bypass shocks offer position-sensitive damping. What does that mean? Well, it means the shock's damping characteristics change depending on how far the shock is compressed. In normal driving conditions, the ride is smooth and controlled. But when you hit a big bump or go off-road, the shocks provide extra damping force to absorb the impact. This helps prevent the suspension from bottoming out and keeps the ride comfortable.

The rear suspension also gets a significant upgrade with FOX Internal Bypass shocks. These shocks are tuned specifically for the rear of the Tacoma, taking into account the vehicle's weight distribution and suspension geometry. The rear shocks work in harmony with the leaf springs to provide excellent articulation and stability. This is crucial when you're navigating uneven terrain.

Another important aspect of the TRD Pro suspension is the tuned springs. These springs are designed to work with the FOX shocks to provide optimal performance. They offer a slightly higher spring rate compared to the standard Tacoma springs, which helps to reduce body roll and improve handling. The springs also contribute to the TRD Pro's increased ride height, giving it extra ground clearance for tackling obstacles.

In summary, the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro suspension is special because of its high-quality components, advanced engineering, and careful tuning. It's designed to provide a balanced combination of on-road comfort and off-road capability, making it a top choice for adventure enthusiasts.

Key Components of the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro Suspension

Alright, let's break down the individual components of the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro suspension in more detail. Knowing what each part does will give you a better understanding of how the whole system works together.

FOX Internal Bypass Shocks

As mentioned earlier, the FOX Internal Bypass shocks are a central element of the TRD Pro suspension. These shocks are designed with internal passages that allow oil to bypass the main piston. This creates position-sensitive damping, which means the damping force changes depending on the position of the shock. When the shock is near full extension or compression, the bypass passages allow oil to flow more freely, resulting in a softer ride. But when the shock is in the middle of its travel, the bypass passages are closed off, providing more damping force for better control.

The FOX shocks also feature an external reservoir. This reservoir holds additional oil and helps to dissipate heat. This is especially important during off-road driving when the shocks are working hard and generating a lot of heat. The reservoir helps to prevent the shocks from fading, ensuring consistent performance even in demanding conditions.

Tuned Springs

The tuned springs on the TRD Pro are designed to complement the FOX shocks. They have a slightly higher spring rate compared to the standard Tacoma springs, which helps to improve handling and reduce body roll. The higher spring rate also contributes to the TRD Pro's increased ride height, giving it more ground clearance for off-road adventures.

The springs are made from high-quality steel and are designed to withstand the rigors of off-road driving. They are also carefully calibrated to provide a comfortable ride on the road.

Rear Leaf Springs

The rear suspension of the Tacoma TRD Pro utilizes leaf springs, which are a common design for trucks. However, the leaf springs on the TRD Pro are specifically tuned to work with the FOX shocks. They provide excellent articulation and help to distribute the vehicle's weight evenly. This is essential for maintaining stability and control on uneven terrain.

Other Components

In addition to the main components, the TRD Pro suspension also includes various other parts such as bump stops, control arms, and bushings. These components play an important role in the overall performance and durability of the suspension system. They are designed to work together to provide a smooth, controlled ride both on and off the road.

Performance and Ride Quality

Now that we've covered the components, let's talk about the performance and ride quality of the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro suspension. This is where the rubber meets the road, so to speak. How does the TRD Pro suspension actually perform in real-world driving conditions?

On-Road Performance

On the road, the TRD Pro suspension provides a comfortable and controlled ride. The FOX Internal Bypass shocks do an excellent job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface. The higher spring rate helps to reduce body roll, making the Tacoma feel more stable and planted in corners. Overall, the on-road performance of the TRD Pro suspension is impressive, especially considering its off-road capabilities.

Off-Road Performance

Off-road is where the TRD Pro suspension really shines. The increased ride height and FOX shocks provide ample ground clearance and suspension travel for tackling challenging terrain. The internal bypass technology allows the shocks to adapt to different conditions, providing a smooth and controlled ride even when the going gets rough. The rear leaf springs offer excellent articulation, allowing the Tacoma to maintain traction on uneven surfaces.

The TRD Pro suspension is also very durable, thanks to its high-quality components and robust design. It can withstand the abuse of off-road driving without any issues. Whether you're rock crawling, mudding, or just exploring forest trails, the TRD Pro suspension will help you get the job done.

Ride Quality

The ride quality of the TRD Pro suspension is a bit of a mixed bag. On smooth roads, the ride is comfortable and refined. But on rough roads or off-road trails, the ride can be a bit firm. This is due to the higher spring rate and the aggressive damping characteristics of the FOX shocks. However, most drivers find the trade-off to be acceptable, considering the TRD Pro's off-road capabilities.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Like any suspension system, the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro suspension has its advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a look at some of the pros and cons.

Advantages

• Superior off-road performance: The TRD Pro suspension is designed to excel in off-road conditions. It provides ample ground clearance, suspension travel, and damping control for tackling challenging terrain.
• High-quality components: The FOX shocks and tuned springs are made from high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of off-road driving.
• Increased ride height: The TRD Pro suspension gives the Tacoma a higher ride height, which improves its ground clearance and approach/departure angles.
• Improved handling: The higher spring rate and tuned shocks help to reduce body roll and improve handling on the road.

Disadvantages

• Firm ride: The ride can be a bit firm on rough roads or off-road trails.
• Cost: The TRD Pro suspension is more expensive than the standard Tacoma suspension.
• Complexity: The internal bypass shocks are more complex than traditional shocks, which can make them more difficult to service.

Maintenance and Upgrades

Maintaining your 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro suspension is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent problems and keep your suspension working its best. Also, there are some upgrades you can consider if you're looking to further improve your suspension.

Maintenance Tips

• Inspect the shocks regularly: Check the shocks for leaks, damage, or excessive wear. If you notice any problems, have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
• Lubricate the suspension components: Lubricate the suspension components regularly to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Use a high-quality grease that is designed for automotive use.
• Check the alignment: Have your alignment checked regularly to ensure that your tires are wearing evenly and that your suspension is properly aligned.
• Replace worn parts: Replace any worn parts, such as bushings or ball joints, as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your suspension.

Upgrade Options

• Aftermarket shocks: If you're looking for even better performance, you can upgrade to aftermarket shocks. There are many different brands and models to choose from, so do your research to find the ones that are best suited for your needs.
• Lift kits: If you want to increase your ride height even further, you can install a lift kit. Lift kits can range from simple spacer kits to more complex suspension systems.
• Upgraded springs: You can also upgrade your springs to improve handling or increase load capacity.

Is the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro Suspension Worth It?

So, the big question: Is the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro suspension worth the investment? The answer depends on your needs and priorities.

If you're an avid off-roader who frequently tackles challenging terrain, then the TRD Pro suspension is definitely worth considering. It provides a significant improvement in off-road performance compared to the standard Tacoma suspension. The increased ground clearance, suspension travel, and damping control will allow you to go places that you wouldn't be able to go with a standard Tacoma.

However, if you primarily drive on the road and only occasionally venture off-road, then the TRD Pro suspension may not be worth the extra cost. The ride can be a bit firm on rough roads, and the benefits of the TRD Pro suspension may not be noticeable in everyday driving conditions.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a Tacoma TRD Pro with its upgraded suspension comes down to your personal preferences and driving habits. If you value off-road performance and are willing to pay a premium for it, then the TRD Pro suspension is an excellent choice. But if you're primarily concerned with on-road comfort and fuel economy, then you may be better off with a standard Tacoma model.

Final Thoughts

The 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro suspension is a well-engineered system that provides a balanced combination of on-road comfort and off-road capability. Its high-quality components, advanced technology, and careful tuning make it a top choice for adventure enthusiasts. Whether you're rock crawling, mudding, or just exploring forest trails, the TRD Pro suspension will help you get the job done. Just remember to consider your needs and priorities before making a decision.