No matter how old we are, when we get a new toy, we want to play with it.
We want to customize it.
We want to make it uniquely ours.
Lift kits are one of the most popular and practical customizations you can make to your truck. But how do you know which lift kit is right for you?
In this article, we will cover the different types of custom truck lift kits, the pros of each, and what to consider when choosing the one for your rig. Read on to find out more.
Body Lift Kits
Body lift kits are the easiest way to add height to your rig. They raise the body of the truck away from the base, without altering the suspension system.
Pros
Body lift kits are significantly cheaper than suspension lifts. Installation is relatively simple. It does not require a lot of additional modifications or component upgrades.
Since none of the OEM components are impacted in a body lift, handling and ride quality remain unaffecting. However, body lift kits can provide the space required to accommodate larger wheels and tires.
If you spend most of your time on the pavement, a body lift kit might be the best lift kit option for your truck.
Suspension Lift Kits
A suspension lift kit does more for your truck than simply making it look cool. It involves a complete overhaul of your existing suspension system.
For this type of lift, your truck requires new coil springs, coil spacers, leaf springs, and torsion bar keys. Depending on the height of the lift, it might also involve additional parts and modifications.
Suspension lift kits are the best truck lift kits for off-roaders and overlanders. This is due to the wide range of advantages they provide for driving off the beaten track.
Pros
If you are an avid off-roader, suspension lift kits are better for your truck in the long run.
They provide the ground clearance required to avoid damaging your undercarriage on obstacles, such as rock and ruts. The increased height also creates more space under the wheel well to accommodate larger tires, as well as improve wheel articulation.
Suspension lifts offer greater maneuverability and handling This is vital when maintaining control over rough terrain and in poor road conditions.
Most people prefer the aesthetics of a suspension lift to a body lift. This is because there is no visible gap between the truck body and the suspension system. Instead, the vehicle appears as one seamless, towering beast.
Choosing the Right Custom Lift Kits
The decision of whether to get a body or suspension lift kit for your truck depends on your desired result.
If your primary concern is the appearance of your vehicle, then a body lift is the logical choice. It will boost the height of your truck without impacting handling and maneuverability.
Enhancing the functionality of your vehicle can only be accomplished with a suspension lift kit. This type of lift is also better suited to those who spend a large portion of their time hitting the backroads.
Things to Consider
Once you have determined which type of truck lift kit suits your personal needs, there are a few other details to ride out.
You’ll have to decide on a height for your custom truck lift. Keep in mind higher lifts require changing more components to maintain the vehicle’s functionality. Extreme lifts also have a greater impact on balance and handling.
Getting a lift kit for your truck will affect your gas mileage. By adding heavy parts to your vehicle, your engine is forced to work harder to compensate. Larger tires, often associated with lifts, will also increase ground resistance, lowering your overall MPG.
One of the most important things to consider is how you are going to install your custom lift kit. Performing the upgrades yourself requires extensive knowledge. You must know your truck inside and out, how to install the kit, and what other components might be affected.
Due to the high probability of something going wrong or the need for additional modifications, professional lift kit installation is the recommended method.
San Antonio Truck Lift
Whether you’re looking to improve your truck’s appearance or increase its ability to handle the unbeaten track, there is a lift kit for you. Both body and suspension lift kits have their own pros and cons. The only thing that really matters is what suits your budget and needs.
For professional truck lift services in San Antonio, look no further than OUTLAW Off-road Performance. Our well-trained staff is ready to tackle all your off-road vehicle needs. Contact us today to set up an appointment for your custom truck lift.