Look for a few good lifts!

[ScottXXL]

I'm rather new at this and still learning, so here it goes. I have over 435,000 miles on my truck. I've replaced the engine and tranny (both went at around 375,000). Just replaced brakes and rotors. I want to replace my suspension and thought I'd get a lift. I also wanted to get larger tires too! I was told that I can run 32" tires on a 2.5 Rancho suspension lift for my 92 explorer. Is this true? If not, what lifts for my truck can I get without going over a grand. I want to drive on and off road. I was looking at Superlift 5.5 which I've been quoted around $650. However, I was told that doesn't included frt/rear brake lines about $100 a piece, shocks which are $40 a piece and a super runner steering kit which is another $350, which Superlift says I need. This also doesn't include new wheel bushings that I read on this site are a good idea. Since I don't know how to install any of this stuff it's going to cost another $450 to install and $150-250 for an alignment. So any suggestions on what I can do, what lift and how much of a task it is to install one of these kits for a first timer.

Oh I have limited tools too, this is my only transportation, and all my friends don't have the first clue about how to change oil on a car. I have really no experience on lifts and little on mods in general.

Sorry this is so long...its my first post!

Thanks for any help

Scott

 

[Rick]

Scott your the winner in the high mileage Explorer contest as far as I can tell. I've personally never heard of one with more miles.

Given your situation I would reccomend looking for a used lift kit. Many people sell the smaller lifts when they decide to go big dawg. This would allow you to update your suspension for a minimal cost and get the larger tires under your truck. Check out the For Sale and Wanted section of thsi message board. You may find something interesting there, don't forget to search for older posts as well.

Good luck,

Rick

 

[ScottXXL]

Thanks Rick for the advice. My explorer use to be my dads...he lives in Pa and commuted to Washington D.C. daily (hence the milage.) I got th explorer last year when everything blew. Is a used suspension reliable? I want to start off-roading, so will a used suspesion hold up and for how long. I'd rather spend alittle now then later replacing stuff. And do 32s fit under a 2.5 lift?

Thanks for the Advice

Scott

 

[Rod Bivens]

Scott,

I was told by Rancho that 32s fit with a 2 1/2 inch lift, but I drive a Ranger. You might want to call Rancho and ask, but keep in mind that they might be a little conservative on their tire sizes also. Maybee someone who installed a Rancho lift could be more helpful. I don't think you will have a problem, other than rubbing a little on the radius arm at full steering lock. If you still have the stock rims that is...Rims with a little more offset will solve this problem, but too much could create a problem also.



Installing a lift is not easy, but can be accomplished If you are mechanically inclined at all. You might want an impact wrench for all those bolts, and you will need a torch to cut out the rivets that hold the axle pivot bracket to the frame.

With a 2 1/2inch lift you will not need new brake lines, maybee just a slight bend to make them reach at full extension of the suspension.

Hope this helps, (a little long...I know)

Rod

 

[Trckmagik]

Your first sentence that you said reminded me of those old Toyota commercials. 435,000 miles You have me beat by a long shot. Oh yeah dont get angry with me because I said toyota on the site

 

[ScottXXL]

Thanks Rod.

I'm getting new wheels with the tire so I'll check the rims for the offset. Thanks for the info on the 2.5 Rancho lift. I'm trying to stay under 2 grand for everything suspension wise and doing it myself will sure help. Thanks for the reply.

ScottXXL

 

[ScottXXL]

Rick,

The vehicle has paid a price for all those miles. Certain things have just rotted off under the body and the suspension. Thats why I'm trying to replace what falls off. There is rust work to be done too! But over all it's still a great truck that looks great. I'll try to post some shots of it.

Just don't say Toyota around my dad...

ScottXXL

1992 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr Black
4.0L
Splitfire wires, plugs
Modified air box
Drop in K&N filter
Cat back Borla exhaust
30x9.5 Wrangler GS-A
Pre-runner bar
StilleBillet Grill
Xezon white/blue lights
Clarion CD, Clarion speakers
Cobra CB
Bell Laser Detector/blocker
Everything else stock