how much lift is too much?

[FMExplorer]

Hey guys,
I just put the 31's to the suspension test and here is what I found... I NEED A LIFT<G>

Went to a construction site (not too many places locally I can flex the suspension) and found the tires rub when trying to flex - even moderately. If I go with a 5.5-6" SOA lift, will that be too high for the 31's? I don't want the tires too look too small for the lift. Anyone with pics of a 5.5-6' lift w/ 31's? (Besides - the bigger lift is cheaper<G> )

Jon M

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Jon McLeod
'93 XLT
K&N Drop-In
Modified Airbox
Kenwood Audio w/ 6-disc changer
31x10.50 Dunlop Mud Rovers
Rancho RS5000's

Next project: visit http://www.jonmcleod.com for more info!

 

[Dignan]

I would say definately get the 5.5-6 inch lift. If you want it down the road and you have a 2.5 inch lift, you will regret it. If your buying new tires, then just get 33s.

Another option would be a body lift. That way, even if you want a bigger lift later, you could get the 5.5-6 and leave the body lift. Plus the body lift is less than $100.

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If everybody is different, how can anyone be normal?

91 Explorer XLT
4.0L OHV V6

 

[FMExplorer]

Dignan,
I thought about the body lift - might end up that route for short term. I know most lifts come with bumper brackets. My choice would be a 3" if I went that route. I suppose it can't be too tricky to install. Anything I need to look out for or know about in advance? Main concerns are any components that will need to be lengthened as a result of the lift. I have an automatic, so I know the transmission isn't a big deal. What are your thoughts?

Jon M

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Jon McLeod
'93 XLT
K&N Drop-In
Modified Airbox
Kenwood Audio w/ 6-disc changer
31x10.50 Dunlop Mud Rovers
Rancho RS5000's

Next project: visit http://www.jonmcleod.com for more info!

 

[GJarrett]

Jon,
You asked how it looked. Rob Robertson got a 5.5" lift and his 31's did look kinda small under it. He just put 33's on it before Moab. It doesn't matter though. If you can get a 5.5" lift, I'm of the school that you can never get too much lift. Go for it.

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Gerald
"Nerves of Steel; Brain of Chipmunk"
'99 Eddie Bauer 4x4 4.0L SOHC aka "The Jeepeater"
Dead Link Removed
"What the heck is he doing out here in that thing???"

 

[FMExplorer]

Gerald,
That was my fear on the 5.5" lift - tires too small. I don't want to go to 33"'s yet because I still drive little old ladies around to see houses. I also don't want to go the 4" route because I know I'll regret it next year when I put the 33"'s on. Probably will end up with a body lift. On another note... If I remove the sway bars, should I go to a dual-shock setup?

Jon M

------------------
Jon McLeod
'93 XLT
K&N Drop-In
Modified Airbox
Kenwood Audio w/ 6-disc changer
31x10.50 Dunlop Mud Rovers
Rancho RS5000's

Next project: visit http://www.jonmcleod.com for more info!

 

[NoBoundaries]

Would 31's be able to fit with a 2.5 inch lift? James Duff makes a 2.5 inch lift and I believe that Rancho also makes a 2.5 inch lift and I think that there are other companies that make a 2.5 inch lift for 1991-1994 Explorers. Check these out, they may just be what you are looking for and I think that 31's would fit with these lifts. Hope this helps.

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Tim Y.
1996 Explorer XLT
4.0L OHV 4x4

[This message has been edited by NoBoundaries (edited 05-04-2000).]

 

[FMExplorer]

Tim,
Yes, 31's will fit under a 2.5" lift - however, from what I've seen the 2.5 and the 5.5 cost near the same. Eventually I want to go with 33's. 2 suspension lifts doesn't make much sense (I don't think...) Basically I am without a clue and am ramblin on and on and on and on and on... Ok - I'm done rambling<G>

Jon M

------------------
Jon McLeod
'93 XLT
K&N Drop-In
Modified Airbox
Kenwood Audio w/ 6-disc changer
31x10.50 Dunlop Mud Rovers
Rancho RS5000's

Next project: visit http://www.jonmcleod.com for more info!

 

[kurant045]

Jon
you are right about two suspension lifts not making sense. I have a 2" suspension lift and now want more, so I'm thinking of going with the 5.5". However there is a considerable difference in price, because you can get a two inch lift by just adding a leaf to the back and buying longer springs for the front. If you are going to do your lift in two stages, I would definetly suggest going with a body lift first, which is cheap and allows you to fit bigger tires. Then get the 5.5", which is more expensive. Regardless the body lift is going to help you avoid tire rub even after you have your suspension lift.