Overview
The Rough Country N3 loaded front strut R/C501012 is a complete lift strut with a pre-installed coil spring, built for 2005–2022 Toyota Tacoma trucks that have a 3 inch lift. It is the front strut for a Tacoma that has already been lifted, and it is designed to replace a strut spacer rather than work alongside one.
The strut is nitrogen charged and uses a large bore with a chrome-hardened piston rod and a leak-proof piston seal, which Rough Country describes as suited to off-road use. A variable damping system tunes the ride, and the coil spring comes already installed so the strut can be swapped without taking the factory strut apart. The extended length is 23.86 in and the compressed length is 18.45 in.
Key features
- Complete loaded strut with a pre-installed coil spring
- Nitrogen charged gas body
- Large bore with a chrome-hardened piston rod
- Leak-proof piston seal
- Variable damping system tuned for the application
- Designed to replace strut spacers on lifted Tacomas
Strut work on a lifted Tacoma
A lift strut takes over the job of both the factory strut and the spacer, so the spring rate and damping must be matched as a single unit. On a Tacoma that has already been raised, the front geometry is different from stock, and the strut carries more of the load during braking and cornering.
Once the strut is in, check the front alignment, the brake hose length and the fender clearance at full steering lock. Hoses and sway bar links can be stretched by the new height, and tire rubbing is a common sign that something has been left out of the setup.
- Confirm the alignment after installation
- Check brake hose length at full lock
- Look for tire contact at full compression
Specifications
| Brand | Rough Country |
|---|---|
| Part number | R/C501012 |
| Product line | N3 Performance |
| Shock type | Lift strut (loaded) |
| Position | Front |
| Lift height | 3 inch |
| Extended length | 23.86 in |
| Compressed length | 18.45 in |
| Charge | Gas charged |
| Coil spring | Pre-installed |
| Piston rod | Chrome-hardened |
| Warranty | 3-year limited warranty |
Vehicle fitment
It fits the 2005–2022 Toyota Tacoma in its base, Limited, Pre Runner, SR, SR5, TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, TRD Sport, Trail and X-Runner models. It is intended for a Tacoma with a 3 inch lift.
It fits Tacoma models from 2005 through 2022, so 2023 and newer trucks are not covered. It does not fit models with 5 lug wheels, or T/X Baja and XSP-X models. Confirm fit for your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
Do not install this strut together with a strut spacer, because it is designed to take the place of one. The strut is only for vehicles with a 3 inch lift; other lift heights need a different N3 part.
What’s included
One loaded N3 front strut with its pre-installed coil spring.
Not included: the factory strut is removed during installation and is not part of this kit.
