Hello! I am looking into lifting my '99 250 SD. The lift I am looking at buying is the Skyjacker 8". I have a few questions regarding lifting my truck this high:

1) Will I need any adapted parts? Pitman drop etc.. for the 8" lift?
2) I am puting 37's (possibly 38's if they'll fit) on it. Is 4.56 gearing sufficient for the HP curve of the V10?
3) Drive line -- Comments as to whether any modifications/replacements will be required?

You see, what I am trying to come up with is a complete list of parts that will be needed. Everything that I need other than the lift itself. If you come accross this thread, and know that certain parts or extra efforts will be required for this lift, could you please drop a line?

Thanks!!

-- Zak

 

Most of the complete systems come with everything (suspension wise) that you need. Sometimes pitman arms, shocks, & steering stabilizeres are not included, look at who you are getting it from. One thing you may need is a new front sway bar. I believe the 99's had a smaller one (3/4") that most manufacturers recommend against lifting with.

8" lift I believe you need either a new front drive shaft or a spacer for it. Again, look at who you are actually getting the system from as some included this, others don't.

37's will clear on 8 inches pretty easy. 38's you have to watch the width. Check out some of the galleries for what they look like to give you a better idea. Also what is your current gear ratio. You may want to look at 4.56 or even 4.88, depending on what you are gonna use the truck for. Commuting 4.56, Towing 4.88.

 

I second BFR's comments, plus you also might want to look into crossover steering with the 8" lift.

Honestly, I think you'd be fine with 4.56's for daily driving and towing. I'm running 37's with 3.73's and my truck still tows fine (I know it's not at it's "optimum" performance but it still tows fine).

Driveshafts- Get the front lengthened (inexpensive) and shim the carrier bearing in the rear.

Good luck!

 

i have 8 in skyjacker on mine it is an 01 psd, im running 38 15.50 16.50 pj's on mine and the only time they rub is if you get really crazy off road. havent had any problems with skyjacker at all, other than the ride is like driving a brick down a mountain but its a truck i guess. i dont have x over steering either, does not seem to be any problems, had it for 2 yrs trouble free.

 

Sweet! Exactly the sort of things I was curious about. Thanks! Will look into just what the Skyjacker comes with. I'll have to go to town (70 miles) to do so, but if you need to know, you need to know right? I just saw one drive through the other day, and it had 18" wheels on it, and what looked like 38 X 12.50 (tall & narrow). I thought it was pretty nice looking considering the tire filled up more of the wheel well.

Thanks for your input!

-- Zak