How to lift my 97 xlt explorer

[gavin]

The PA 792 does not come with the right length bolts (for a second gen). You'll be able to use the bolts provided for the front body mounts, the factory (5) bolts for the (2) position bolts after lifting, and one of the not-as-long bolts that come with the kit for the (5) position. You'll need to buy extra bolts, but I couldn't tell you which size will fit where. I'll be doing this lift (again) in one month from today and I've bought M12x130 and M12x120 bolts from the hardware store just as extras.

You don't need to extend the steering column but I advise unbolting before lifting and re installing after lifting.

If you have side skirts/moldings leave them on until after you're done to decide if you still want them or not (they help hide the "hanging frame" look)

the body lift used for probably 99% of the 2nd gens on here used the PA 883 or 853.

I believe I used the 883. Only needed to buy 2 bolts; but could have actually re-used existing bolts if I had done more research on the forum.

 

[BSlusser]

Yeah but wasn't he talking about the 2 inch lift? I realize I'm a minority

Edit - You were talking about the 2 inch... I don't think OP said which lift he was going to use, only that he might need a "small body lift". If we were talking about the 883 I would've remained lurking

 

[gavin]

Yeah but wasn't he talking about the 2 inch lift? I realize I'm a minority

Edit - You were talking about the 2 inch... I don't think OP said which lift he was going to use, only that he might need a "small body lift". If we were talking about the 883 I would've remained lurking

you're right.

I didn't pay enough attention :

I haven't done any research on the 2 inch body lifts.

 

[corkey]

i had only a TT and shackles and ran a 31x10.5 tire and it didn't rub on my 1996 same body shape,,
i even had the 31's on stock 15 inch rims,

 

[BSlusser]

i had only a TT and shackles and ran a 31x10.5 tire and it didn't rub on my 1996 same body shape,,
i even had the 31's on stock 15 inch rims,

My experience has been different. I've had a 2WD and 4WD '99, ran a 2" TT and 1.5" TT on each respectively, both rubbed off and on, but mostly off.

you're right.

I didn't pay enough attention :

I haven't done any research on the 2 inch body lifts.

No worries