Lifting a truck

***syntaxerrorsix*** · 08-25-2002, 10:47

I have a ford ranger xlt with 14" tires, I'd like to mount 16" tires and raise the truck up a few more inches. I understand that a few things happen when changing tire size such as the speedometer readings, but what is the easiest way to lift the truck without major modifications on a limited budget? I priced rims and tires at Pep Boys and figured it would run me about 250 for 4 rims and tires. I have no clue about changing the shocks/springs or what is needed to raise the truck up. This mod, is stricly for work purposes, no serious off roading, and Im not interested in a sporty look or whatever. I just need more ground clearance and a higher suspension. Any thoughts of my best posible route? Thanx.

Michigun · 08-26-2002, 07:44

"Body lifts" are cheap & pretty easy to do.

I put one on an old S-10 4x4 a little while back & it cost me just a bit over $100. I did the 3" life, but they have 2" lifts.

I've heard 3" "body lifts" are the tallest you should go. I know I had no problems with mine & it's still going good.

laynlow · 08-26-2002, 09:53

Do you have torsion bars on the front? A torsion twist can net you 1.5" in the front. For the rear, some new shackles should do the trick.

Since the Ranger and Explorer are cousins, check out the Explorer Forums for lots of info.

http://www.explorer4x4.com/

vart · 09-02-2002, 00:02

$250 for 4 wheels and tires!?;P I'm adding 2.5 inches of lift in the front of my F250 just to level it off and compensate for my new massive bumper. I'll be able to fit 315-75-16s (35" tall) tires on my beast. One tire costs $200.

***syntaxerrorsix*** · 09-02-2002, 08:20

Tires from Pep Boys, rims from salvage yard. About 250, but it looks as if I'll have to go with 15" at 31" tall and 10.5 wide to make them fit right and retain proper steering and clearance.

micah · 09-04-2002, 12:11

If what you want is ground clearance, big tires are the only way to get it. Your pumpkins are most likely the lowest point on your vehicle, and no lift kit will make them go higher. For every 2" of extra tire diameter you get, your differentials will go up 1". The cheapest way to accomodate big tires is to hack your fenders and wheelwells up. Hope it's not a new truck

The torsion bar twist and shackles are another good choice.
No matter what you choose, be prepared for increased wear on all brakes, steering, and front drive components from the extra rotating mass.