Suspension Lift Question

[hinanodrinker]

I want to lift my '99 xlt and put on bigger tires. I don't know what would be better buying a kit or piecing it together? I was thinking about a 3" to 4" lift. I do not plan on doing serious off roading. I just want better ground clearance. I use my exp to pull a couple of waverunners to the lake. Right now the rear in sags really bad. Will I need to put air bags in the rear end to keep it up? Any help that you all can give me will be appreciated. As you can probably tell I am new to this and know very little.

Thanks

 

[Jason_25]

2wd or 4wd? If it's 2wd, I recommend an add-a-leaf and 3" lift spindles. If it's 4x4. I recommend an add-a-leaf and a torsion twist. This way you will get a lift and keep the springs from sagging when towing.

 

[hinanodrinker]

It is a 2wd. So, is there a kit with the parts that you recommend? What about shocks and springs for the front end?

Thanks for your help.

 

[Jason_25]

I forget who makes the 3" spindle kit. Do a search for it and you should find it. Replacement torsion bars for the front end are optional. The added stiffness of beefier bars definitely helps out offroad though. I recommend Old Man Emu, Bilstein, KYB, or Rancho RS9000X for shocks.

 

[hinanodrinker]

I talked to a local shop and he said Pro Comp makes a 3" kit. It has spindles, add a leaf, and 4 shocks for $800. Is this a good option?

Also, do you think I should add air bags so when I tow my skis the back end isn't dragging?

Thanks for your ongoing help.

 

[Jason_25]

That procomp kit is a great choice. You may be able to find a better deal on it though.

No need for airbags. The add-a-leafs will keep the rear from sagging.

 

[Webster3]

The AAL will help the sag, and if it still sags you can add some extended shakels too. After searching this site a bit you'll see what combination many others have used to get the lift you are looking for. And there are quite a few 2wd'ers around too.

Ed

 

[AspenX]

Might try the Warrior shackles too.

 

[hinanodrinker]

Dumb Question:

What are shackles?

 

[TheRookie]

In all politeness you need to do some reading. To be nice to the new guy here is your answer.
Shackles are the brackets that hold the rear of your leaf springs. If you look at the leaf they are the funny rectangle things connected to the end of the spring. Warrior is a company that makes lnger shackles. This intern will raise your truck. The part number for these is WAR153