The Runner did most excellent out in the maze especially considering it has street tires. Tomorrow is elephant hill.
I've never driven it slowly with the windows down but I can hear a distinct grinding sound. I'm guessing wheel bearings need replacing.
I'd like to add that the springs ended up lifting the back a lot more than 3"... more like 5". Outside of the 3" longer shock that may no be long enough, what else should I be concerned with?
My guess is that the OE springs that you had were probably already shot by atleast an inch.. No? So your "5in gain" may be closer to 3-4"? With 5" of true lift, over stock ride heights, I would think you'd have had driveline issues during your trip.