Hi, my name is Stan, and I want to welcome you to my blog. I love working on cars, and I have worked on them since I was a little kid working alongside my dad. Over the years, I have seen vehicles grow more complicated, and I have also seen a range of parts manufacturers enter the market. Some of them make amazing parts while others make parts that aren't quite as good as original manufacturer parts. If you want to learn about the differences between generic and original parts or if you have other questions on auto parts, this blog has the answers you need. Please get comfortable and start exploring.
If you take your vehicle off-roading, or just want to add some style or your car or truck, you might want to invest in a lift kit. This is a kit of parts that gives your vehicle some clearance, either between it and the ground or between the body and frame. For off-roading, this can protect the underside of the vehicle from damage. For everyday driving, it can just give your car or truck some style. Before you buy a lift kit for any vehicle, you may want to note a few important factors first. This will ensure you buy the right type and know what's involved with its installation.
1. Body versus suspension kits
It's vital that you understand the difference between body lift kits and suspension lift kits. A body lift kit puts distance between the body of the vehicle and the frame. A suspension lift kit lifts everything off the ground, including the engine, power train, body, and frame. If you're looking to add a lift kit to your 4WD for off-roading, you want a suspension lift kit for maximum protection.
If you just want to add some style to your vehicle for everyday riding, a body lift kit can be the better choice. These are more economical and simpler to install, but won't offer the same protection for the underbody. Note that a leveling lift is a type of body lift that works to just level the front end of a truck; most trucks are lower in the front when they come off the factory line, so a leveling kit can correct this for better maneuvering up steep inclines.
2. Choosing size of lifts
The use of your vehicle will determine the size of the lift you choose. Smaller lifts maintain the factory ride and are easier to install; they typically involve just a coil spacer that's placed under the shock spring for added elevation. For everyday driving, these can be a good option.
Medium lift kits will involve the coil spacers and elevated brake lines, so they're more complicated to install but will offer more protection when you go off-roading. For some vehicles, a new driveshaft may be needed depending on the length of the lift, so installation can become even more complicated.
The largest of lifts will typically mean reworking the entire front of your vehicle, including the installation of new shocks and driveshaft. This is the most expensive choice and typically means needing a professional to install them. It usually isn't necessary for anyone but the most serious of off-roaders. Before determining the size of lift you want, note the parts that are included and what needs to be reworked for their installation.
For more information, contact a local auto shop like Wilkinson Suspension Centre.
Share1 June 2015
