Post by: WA hunter14 on March 01, 2014, 10:27:04 PM
Post by: Grizzly95 on March 01, 2014, 10:32:59 PM
Post by: Smossy on March 01, 2014, 10:36:46 PM
What year, make, and model? How do you use the truck now? Camper, trailering?Ill bite, we're wondering the same question.
2005 Ford Explorer, Daily Driver, next to no towing, Hunting/Trapping/Fishing Rig.
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 01, 2014, 10:39:14 PM
What year, make, and model? How do you use the truck now? Camper, trailering?
1978 f250 no towing or camper just daily driver and hunting truck
Post by: Rrich2278 on March 01, 2014, 10:42:45 PM
Post by: Smossy on March 01, 2014, 10:52:35 PM
Not sure what you have but I put a 6 in suspension lift on mine with 35's and 18in wheels.And what did that run you? We want to lift our's to give us a safer ride when were out and about, Clearance is a problem right now with 20" rims and low profile tires :bash:
My girls ex husband was a pure tool, I cant stand the wheels on there now.
Post by: HuntandFish on March 01, 2014, 10:59:37 PM
I would love to see some before and after pics, I get sentimental with the old fords, the one I usd to have holds a special place in my heart and I will one day be getting another one and turning it into a wheeler as well!
Regards,
H&F
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 01, 2014, 11:06:43 PM
Post by: HuntandFish on March 01, 2014, 11:06:51 PM
Not sure what you have but I put a 6 in suspension lift on mine with 35's and 18in wheels.And what did that run you? We want to lift our's to give us a safer ride when were out and about, Clearance is a problem right now with 20" rims and low profile tires :bash:
My girls ex husband was a pure tool, I cant stand the wheels on there now.
[/quote
Lifting a explorer is going to make your rig more dangerous IMO, due to its short wheel base, put a 2" body lift and some 31" tires or 33" and cut the fenders. This way you keep the center of gravity low. But ya rims and low pro tires do make you look like a D-bag.... :chuckle:
Post by: Rrich2278 on March 01, 2014, 11:07:33 PM
I don't tow anything, just day to day street driving and hunting trips..
Post by: Smossy on March 01, 2014, 11:29:50 PM
Well as far as safety I meant like off roading or dirt roads, With our low pro's they have almost NO traction and are flat. Completely ridiculous. Wheel base? What's that? :chuckle: Im just wanting to get the girls rig actually usable instead of a boring truck.Not sure what you have but I put a 6 in suspension lift on mine with 35's and 18in wheels.And what did that run you? We want to lift our's to give us a safer ride when were out and about, Clearance is a problem right now with 20" rims and low profile tires :bash:
My girls ex husband was a pure tool, I cant stand the wheels on there now.Quote
Lifting a explorer is going to make your rig more dangerous IMO, due to its short wheel base, put a 2" body lift and some 31" tires or 33" and cut the fenders. This way you keep the center of gravity low. But ya rims and low pro tires do make you look like a D-bag.... :chuckle:
Post by: HuntandFish on March 01, 2014, 11:30:02 PM
Regards,
H&F
Post by: jeepasaurusrex on March 02, 2014, 07:15:18 AM
Too much money!! That also has a lot to do with the brand of tires and wheels. Mine was $5000+. I had everything done at Les. You'll find that a lot of people will disagree with the quality of work they do, but I have had zero issues. They can tell you, based off the vehicle you have what size tires you could put on with a 6 or 9 in lift and still be safe.. I wish I had the ability todo that type of work myself and I'm sure I could have saved a lot.
I don't tow anything, just day to day street driving and hunting trips..
Was that an IFS truck? No way that should of cost that much with a solid axle truck.
Look for a lift that uses rear springs, rather than lift blocks. Lift blocks tend to increase the axle wrap. Front lift blocks are a super no-no. They are illegal in all 50 states as well.
Don't forget to re-gear the axles to match the size of tire. I see it all the time.. A person lifts a rig, adds larger tires, then complains about the lack of power. The first thing they want to do is increase their HP. 99% of the time, a simple gear swap will bring the rpm range back into the operating range of the engine and they will be fine.
Post by: jeepasaurusrex on March 02, 2014, 07:22:30 AM
Post by: whacker1 on March 02, 2014, 07:36:12 AM
http://www.superlift.com/pc_product_detail.asp?key=CC5C6C7D0D48482182DDDFE084FEE3EA (http://www.superlift.com/pc_product_detail.asp?key=CC5C6C7D0D48482182DDDFE084FEE3EA)
It looks like some of the higher end brands of lifts no longer stock their 70's model pickup lifts
these pickups look great with 35's and 37's.
Post by: lewy on March 02, 2014, 07:51:53 AM
Post by: Grizzly95 on March 02, 2014, 07:52:31 AM
Like said earlier, get a good lift. And plan on rebuilding the front end if it isn't good and tight now. Any worn part will be magnified by the larger tires. Kits are easy to install based on you mechanic knowledge and the tools you have. Of course a good hoist helps. I've probably lifted more than 1000 rigs in my days sentenced to hard labor at les Schwab, it's probably the only thing I miss about that place.
Post by: Special T on March 02, 2014, 07:54:49 AM
Post by: Rick on March 02, 2014, 08:13:11 AM
Post by: TheHunt on March 02, 2014, 08:13:51 AM
I am a minimalist with tall truck tires unless you are willing to pay big dollars. If you go super big like 38 or 40 inch tall tires you have to re-gear your axles.
If you go with 33 or 35 max you will have plenty of height to go most places. I have 33's on a 2008 Toyota Tacoma that my son has at WSU. I have a 2012 F150 eco boost which will most likely get 35's. Going a little taller will not require a re-gearing. Save you money. Getting a tire width at 10 inch or 9 inch will cause your gas mileage to drop but better then a 12 inch wide tire.
If you are a full size truck 35 inch is not a big reach. If you are a mid size truck 33 would be my choice. Identify the tires first then work back words the size of the lift. To put those tall of tires you will need a two inch spacer or minimal 2 inch lift for most rigs.
Post by: batch on March 02, 2014, 08:43:06 AM
Post by: huntnfmly on March 02, 2014, 09:04:02 AM
Post by: HuntandFish on March 02, 2014, 09:52:37 AM
I've run up to a 38" tire on a 92 Chevy. Was a good truck, but I'll never do it again. I'll build a toy for that anymore. Bigger tires suck in the ice and slick snow, the width is what gets you. On my super duty I may level the front and that's all. It run's a 33 stock. The other one that gets you is the wheel width, the wider the wheel and offset the smaller tire you will be able to clear.
Like said earlier, get a good lift. And plan on rebuilding the front end if it isn't good and tight now. Any worn part will be magnified by the larger tires. Kits are easy to install based on you mechanic knowledge and the tools you have. Of course a good hoist helps. I've probably lifted more than 1000 rigs in my days sentenced to hard labor at les Schwab, it's probably the only thing I miss about that place.
Not trying to start a debate on this thread.... But....you are incorrect on the point that wider tires are not good in the snow and ice, and narrow is the way to go for performance? Most guys incorrectly compare narrow AT tread pattern tires to big MT blocky style tread patterns on the snow/ice. It would be better to run a wide AT tire in your favorite snow/ice tread than run a narrow version!
Anyway, just had to comment on that! Carry on.
Regards,
H&F
Post by: Buzz2401 on March 02, 2014, 02:29:27 PM
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 02, 2014, 04:11:15 PM
Post by: Westside88 on March 02, 2014, 04:20:31 PM
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 02, 2014, 04:28:52 PM
Post by: fish vacuum on March 02, 2014, 04:37:00 PM
can someone give me the basics on lifting a truck?
The basics are that your steering and braking parts will wear out faster. Big tires are more expensive and the aggressive tread on most of those big tires will wear out faster. If you don't adjust your gears for bigger tires, your transmission will take a beating, as will other parts of your drive train. So, you'll be able to clear more obstacles and drive in deeper snow, but you'll have an increased chance of parts failing and leaving you stranded.
Oh, and your MPG will take a hit, adding to the cost each day.
Have fun. :)
Post by: Grizzly95 on March 02, 2014, 04:41:47 PM
Quote
Not trying to start a debate on this thread.... But....you are incorrect on the point that wider tires are not good in the snow and ice, and narrow is the way to go for performance? Most guys incorrectly compare narrow AT tread pattern tires to big MT blocky style tread patterns on the snow/ice. It would be better to run a wide AT tire in your favorite snow/ice tread than run a narrow version!
In my personal runnings it came down to pounds per square inch. Wide tires spin more on the nasty stuff. There is a balance where power cleans the lugs and such. Mainly mudding. When buckshot was still building tires they had a tall narrow tire that was hands down better than any standard 35-12.50. I know rubber compound was a factor also, but even with my SD there is a difference in wide and narrow.
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 02, 2014, 04:55:10 PM
QuoteNot trying to start a debate on this thread.... But....you are incorrect on the point that wider tires are not good in the snow and ice, and narrow is the way to go for performance? Most guys incorrectly compare narrow AT tread pattern tires to big MT blocky style tread patterns on the snow/ice. It would be better to run a wide AT tire in your favorite snow/ice tread than run a narrow version!
In my personal runnings it came down to pounds per square inch. Wide tires spin more on the nasty stuff. There is a balance where power cleans the lugs and such. Mainly mudding. When buckshot was still building tires they had a tall narrow tire that was hands down better than any standard 35-12.50. I know rubber compound was a factor also, but even with my SD there is a difference in wide and narrow.
there is already a thread with a ton of back and forth about tire width...
Post by: Grizzly95 on March 02, 2014, 05:01:07 PM
Post by: HuntandFish on March 02, 2014, 05:02:14 PM
The reason why you typically go with a suspension lift over body is several, but the main reasons are, you are lifting your truck for better off road performance right? Well one of the benefits of a lift is to get your frame and running gear (running gear achieved by bigger tires) off the ground for better clearance. Only a suspension lift does this. Second reason would be a body lift looks terrible :chuckle:
Put a 3" suspension lift on and 35" tires and drive it. You won't need to re-gear anything.
Regards,
H&F
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 02, 2014, 05:06:32 PM
I think 3" of lift would clear 35" tires fine, will give it a bit of a stuffed look, but I kind of like that.
The reason why you typically go with a suspension lift over body is several, but the main reasons are, you are lifting your truck for better off road performance right? Well one of the benefits of a lift is to get your frame and running gear off the ground for better clearance. Only a suspension lift does this. Second reason would be a body lift looks terrible :chuckle:
Put a 3" suspension lift on and 35" tires and drive it. You won't need to re-gear anything.
Regards,
H&F
thank you thats a great answer, what in your opinion are good brands of suspension lift?
Post by: HuntandFish on March 02, 2014, 05:07:19 PM
Regards,
H&F
Post by: batch on March 02, 2014, 05:09:52 PM
Post by: Rick on March 02, 2014, 05:42:44 PM
can you do just a 3 inch body lift and get away with 35's?
Isn't that basically what the old "tall boy" Fords were?
Post by: Mudman on March 02, 2014, 05:46:20 PM
Post by: Smossy on March 02, 2014, 05:49:12 PM
Smossy just get wheels and tires that are worth using! Dont lift it, pricey and body lifts are bad news. Ford f250 can do whatever you want really. 35 is a good size and not so hard on truck. If you get BIG then driveline angles eat u joints. Suspension parts wear and break quickly. Brakes, gearing, engine, steering, transmissions, axles, wheel bearings, and safety are issues to deal with sooner not later. 38 and bigger seem to be the tipping point for most trucks. 37 are max for me but I went down to 35s.So 35 inch tires on 16 inch rims?
Post by: T-Dozzer on March 02, 2014, 05:55:31 PM
Plan on more maintenance once its lifted. Big tires are hard on suspension parts.
I've had a lot of lifted rigs and this is spot on. :tup:
Post by: Rick on March 02, 2014, 05:57:32 PM
Smossy just get wheels and tires that are worth using! Dont lift it, pricey and body lifts are bad news. Ford f250 can do whatever you want really. 35 is a good size and not so hard on truck. If you get BIG then driveline angles eat u joints. Suspension parts wear and break quickly. Brakes, gearing, engine, steering, transmissions, axles, wheel bearings, and safety are issues to deal with sooner not later. 38 and bigger seem to be the tipping point for most trucks. 37 are max for me but I went down to 35s.So 35 inch tires on 16 inch rims?
On a stock Explorer no way. To fit 35s you'd either have to do a bunch of hacking on the body or a bunch of lift.
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 02, 2014, 06:00:17 PM
Post by: Smossy on March 02, 2014, 06:07:07 PM
What's the largest tire size you can go without compromising clearance?Smossy just get wheels and tires that are worth using! Dont lift it, pricey and body lifts are bad news. Ford f250 can do whatever you want really. 35 is a good size and not so hard on truck. If you get BIG then driveline angles eat u joints. Suspension parts wear and break quickly. Brakes, gearing, engine, steering, transmissions, axles, wheel bearings, and safety are issues to deal with sooner not later. 38 and bigger seem to be the tipping point for most trucks. 37 are max for me but I went down to 35s.So 35 inch tires on 16 inch rims?
On a stock Explorer no way. To fit 35s you'd either have to do a bunch of hacking on the body or a bunch of lift.
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 02, 2014, 06:28:14 PM
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 02, 2014, 06:42:15 PM
I'd stay away from body lifts. These trucks are pretty basic to lift. I had 33's on a 76 with just add a lift springs. (Just an extra leaf slipped in) everyone has opinions but body lifts cause other issues like needing to extend wiring , hoses etc. they don't look god same either. IMHO 35's are about the biggest for a usable truck of that style, but everyone has their own preference.
so your saying i can lift my truck with just leaf springs?
Post by: YoteSlayer61 on March 02, 2014, 07:27:41 PM
Post by: Mudman on March 02, 2014, 07:40:52 PM
Post by: bowhunterwa87 on March 02, 2014, 07:58:40 PM
Post by: Mudman on March 02, 2014, 08:12:52 PM
I have a 6" with 35s under my 95 chevy and have had zero problems with it. Rough country lift. Had it installed last yearI bent leaf springs in my toyota. New rough country lift. Rear was so bad axle spun and destroyed everything. Bent all 4. Not sure what happened. I went to trail gear and chevy spring. Of course a Big block Olds was in it.
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 02, 2014, 08:35:53 PM
I would join a forum for your specific truck there are tons of forums out there you could find one for your year of truck and guys with the same truck....pick their brains they can tell you a lot more as far as specific parts and kits than the yahoos on hunting forums....I would recommend 35s at the biggest and enough lift to fit them.use the money you would save on bigger lift and tires, buy a winch, a tow strap and maybe put lockers in the front. That will get you anywhere you have business going. I know it's hard to decide but there is a fine line between an off-road truck and a hunting truck.my dad always said 4x4 is enough to get you out when you're not really stuck but enough to get you really stuck..if that makes any sense?
yea it does make sense i know that part all to well thats why ive also been looking into lockers :chuckle:
Post by: Spuddieselwwu on March 02, 2014, 09:09:24 PM
Post by: whacker1 on March 03, 2014, 08:15:42 AM
can someone tell me what specific parts are needed witha 3 or 4 inch lift, there are alot of kits out there and they dont all have the same stuff.
I goofed earlier when I posted the link to SuperLift's system. I mistakenly posted the lift for the F150.
it will depend on if you have a factory hi-boy or low-boy.
Skyjacker and Rough Country are the only two companies I found that still advertise 78 F250 suspension lift kits. The Skyjacker will give you a parts list if you want to piece meal it together.
http://skyjacker.com/page.php?PageID=397 (http://skyjacker.com/page.php?PageID=397)
http://www.roughcountry.com/suspension-lift-kits/ford-suspension-lift-kits.html?vehicle_drive=3&vehicle_model=282&vehicle_year=49 (http://www.roughcountry.com/suspension-lift-kits/ford-suspension-lift-kits.html?vehicle_drive=3&vehicle_model=282&vehicle_year=49)
With a Factory Hi-boy you should not need lift to fit 35 inch tires. i believe if you want to go bigger than 35's then you will need to put 4 inch lift and you should be able to roll 37's or 38's depending on width and rim off-set. I don't recall if the 40's will fit under it or not.
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 03, 2014, 08:35:56 AM
Post by: swanny on March 03, 2014, 08:40:15 AM
What year, make, and model? How do you use the truck now? Camper, trailering?Ill bite, we're wondering the same question.
2005 Ford Explorer, Daily Driver, next to no towing, Hunting/Trapping/Fishing Rig.
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=2005+ford+explorer+lift+kit (http://lmgtfy.com/?q=2005+ford+explorer+lift+kit)
Post by: whacker1 on March 03, 2014, 08:58:09 AM
What year, make, and model? How do you use the truck now? Camper, trailering?Ill bite, we're wondering the same question.
2005 Ford Explorer, Daily Driver, next to no towing, Hunting/Trapping/Fishing Rig.
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=2005+ford+explorer+lift+kit (http://lmgtfy.com/?q=2005+ford+explorer+lift+kit)
30.5 x 9.6 is the tallest tire you can get under it stock. ours is 245/70x17. Cooper AT3
the problem with 20 inch rims, is that there are lots of options in low profile/highway tires, but not many options in all terrain until you get into truck size tires at 32 - 34 inch tall tires. you would likely need 6 inches of lift to clear 34 inch tires on an explorer and that would be a stretch and probably a waste of money. That year explorer is already plagued with automatic transmission problems, wheel bearings and high gear ratios. Going from 28 inch stock tire to 34 would be a huge shift in gear ratio, and would suck the life out of that transmission.
I think you would be better served to pick up a used set of 17 or 18 inch rims and put a 30 inch tire on it that gets you what you need. You will pick up an inch of clearance and then you can use the 20's for a summer set. Put your suspension and tire money towards your next vehicle. You will have $4000-5000 into a lift on an explorer that you use for a daily driver and will cut your fuel economy by at least 30%.
Post by: Westside88 on March 04, 2014, 08:56:25 AM
I'd stay away from body lifts. These trucks are pretty basic to lift. I had 33's on a 76 with just add a lift springs. (Just an extra leaf slipped in) everyone has opinions but body lifts cause other issues like needing to extend wiring , hoses etc. they don't look god same either. IMHO 35's are about the biggest for a usable truck of that style, but everyone has their own preference.
so your saying i can lift my truck with just leaf springs?
You can gain an inch or two with a Rancho add a leaf. I was running Buckshots that were about 33". Width factors into it too. Check with Les Schwab if you're thinking of that route
Post by: huntnphool on March 04, 2014, 09:12:08 AM
how to decide how big of lift?Wouldnt that depend on what you need to lift it for in the first place, or are you simply doing it for appearance? :dunno:
Post by: WA hunter14 on March 04, 2014, 09:15:16 AM
I'd stay away from body lifts. These trucks are pretty basic to lift. I had 33's on a 76 with just add a lift springs. (Just an extra leaf slipped in) everyone has opinions but body lifts cause other issues like needing to extend wiring , hoses etc. they don't look god same either. IMHO 35's are about the biggest for a usable truck of that style, but everyone has their own preference.
so your saying i can lift my truck with just leaf springs?
You can gain an inch or two with a Rancho add a leaf. I was running Buckshots that were about 33". Width factors into it too. Check with Les Schwab if you're thinking of that route
i do hall some fire wood probably half a dozen cords a year would that flatten out add a leafs?
Post by: jeepasaurusrex on March 05, 2014, 05:16:11 AM
Post by: Alchase on March 05, 2014, 01:01:25 PM
I think 3" of lift would clear 35" tires fine, will give it a bit of a stuffed look, but I kind of like that.
The reason why you typically go with a suspension lift over body is several, but the main reasons are, you are lifting your truck for better off road performance right? Well one of the benefits of a lift is to get your frame and running gear (running gear achieved by bigger tires) off the ground for better clearance. Only a suspension lift does this. Second reason would be a body lift looks terrible :chuckle:
Put a 3" suspension lift on and 35" tires and drive it. You won't need to re-gear anything.
Regards,
H&F
I will add to this, if you ever see what happens to a body lift when it falls off the blocks, you will never think of a body only lift, LOL
Post by: jeepasaurusrex on March 05, 2014, 04:17:26 PM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1303.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fag158%2FRXT60%2FDSCN0064_zps5d47207f.jpg&hash=ca3b7e462111571b8b86988e5e0219d0cf7b8e5d)
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi99.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fl297%2Fgrewe02%2FThe%2520Jeep%2FDestruction%2FCIMG3218.jpg&hash=7f26f88512e1ab5d6b7c5947c744dae7b00288db)
Post by: WoodlandShooter on March 07, 2014, 10:20:41 AM
But, I do have some KORE stuff on my Dodge....
KORE, Carli, Ballistic Fab, Brenthel, Camburg all make real good stuff!!!
Post by: WoodlandShooter on March 07, 2014, 10:28:08 AM
http://thecarlisuspension.com/ (http://thecarlisuspension.com/)
Dodge and some Toyota
http://koreperformance.com/ (http://koreperformance.com/)
Something for everyone!!!
http://www.bajakits.com/ (http://www.bajakits.com/)
http://camburg.com/home/ (http://camburg.com/home/)
Post by: jeepasaurusrex on March 07, 2014, 10:55:09 PM
Most of what people have discussed in this thread has been covered, researched, etc about 10 years ago. Having been around lifted and modified vehicles, I have had the opportunity to see what works and what does not.
Post by: BigGoonTuna on March 08, 2014, 07:52:44 AM
Post by: Westside88 on March 08, 2014, 08:25:51 AM
I'd stay away from body lifts. These trucks are pretty basic to lift. I had 33's on a 76 with just add a lift springs. (Just an extra leaf slipped in) everyone has opinions but body lifts cause other issues like needing to extend wiring , hoses etc. they don't look god same either. IMHO 35's are about the biggest for a usable truck of that style, but everyone has their own preference.
so your saying i can lift my truck with just leaf springs?
You can gain an inch or two with a Rancho add a leaf. I was running Buckshots that were about 33". Width factors into it too. Check with Les Schwab if you're thinking of that route
i do hall some fire wood probably half a dozen cords a year would that flatten out add a leafs?
I've used add a leafs on a couple trucks including the front of my current truck an '89 F250. They stiffen the ride up a bit, but I like them. I'd say my truck ended up sitting and riding about like a 350
Post by: Mudman on March 08, 2014, 08:59:17 AM
Post by: Smossy on March 08, 2014, 01:48:53 PM
Post by: tjthebest on March 08, 2014, 02:08:20 PM
Im looking at picking up a Pre-2000 Toyota Tacoma so Im sure Ill be bombarding with questions If I can ever get approved for a dang loan :dunno:
I believe it will be pretty difficult to get a loan on that old of a truck. Banks dont like the risk of high mileage old vehicles..
Post by: Mudman on March 08, 2014, 07:25:37 PM
Post by: Smossy on March 09, 2014, 09:19:50 PM
Under 10 years old and 100k miles is what banks prefer. Dad has a 1999 tacoma, great pickups.I doubt id be able to afford anything in that range. Im looking in like the 5k max range. I tried to get a loan for 3g for a 98 tacoma with 111k miles and they werrent going for it.