Installing a 4" lift
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Senior User
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 256
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From: Central Iowa
Installing a 4" lift
I am installing a 4" lift on my 90 Eddie Bauer and I have a few questions about some modifications that might be necessary. First of all will I need/or can I drop the steering stabilizer altogether in the front? Will I need a dropped pitman arm or can I use the stock arm already there? Will the driveshafts need to be extended or is there some kind of kit that I can buy to make up for the differences in length and angle. Are there any other modifications that will be necessary to complete the lift successfully? The kit came with blocks and U bolts for the back, extended radius arm brackets, front axle brackets (both sides), coil springs and hardware. I also ordered longer shocks separately. Any advice from those experienced in installing lifts would be greatly appreciated as this is my first. Thanks in advance!
KJ
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 937
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Installing a 4" lift
> First of all will I need/or can I drop the
>steering stabilizer altogether in the front?
I never used one. If you're running huge tires or bias plys it might be helpful. Really, a steering stabilizer is just a band-aid approach that masks other problems.
>Will I need a dropped pitman arm
Yes.
> Will the driveshafts need to be extended
No.
>kit came with blocks and U bolts for the back,
Just be sure you use the blocks AND the existing stock shims or you won't have enough pinion angle = vibes.
>steering stabilizer altogether in the front?
I never used one. If you're running huge tires or bias plys it might be helpful. Really, a steering stabilizer is just a band-aid approach that masks other problems.
>Will I need a dropped pitman arm
Yes.
> Will the driveshafts need to be extended
No.
>kit came with blocks and U bolts for the back,
Just be sure you use the blocks AND the existing stock shims or you won't have enough pinion angle = vibes.
Elder User
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 714
Likes: 0
From: Georgia
Installing a 4" lift
You may want to look into some extended brake lines too...if you do just remember that the braided steel(?) ones are worth the extra $$$ over the rubber lines.
Jon
1989 F-150 XL- 4x4, 302, M50D
1995 Bronco Eddie Bauer- 351W, E40D
Finally got around to creating a gallery...check it out
Jon
1989 F-150 XL- 4x4, 302, M50D
1995 Bronco Eddie Bauer- 351W, E40D
Finally got around to creating a gallery...check it out
Junior User
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 91
Likes: 0
From: Nevada
Installing a 4" lift
The method I used to drive out the rivets after beating on them for two hours:
1) drill off head to remove old bracket
2) Place plywood (3/4") pieces between the rivet and breakables (oil pan, tranny, etc.).
3) Use a .22 cal concrete nail gun centered on the rivet.
This is what I did. If you choose to do this it's your decision.
USE EYE PROTECTION AND BE CAREFUL!!!! The rivet will really fly out.
And probably the most overlooked but most important:
a REALLY good friend willing to spend countless hours under YOUR rig helping you.
Good luck
Steve
'91 Bronco
Eddie Bauer
351W 4x4 cam, headers, custom exhaust
6" Explorer Procomp lift
(Still waiting for the 35" tires
)
1) drill off head to remove old bracket
2) Place plywood (3/4") pieces between the rivet and breakables (oil pan, tranny, etc.).
3) Use a .22 cal concrete nail gun centered on the rivet.
This is what I did. If you choose to do this it's your decision.
USE EYE PROTECTION AND BE CAREFUL!!!! The rivet will really fly out.
And probably the most overlooked but most important:
a REALLY good friend willing to spend countless hours under YOUR rig helping you.
Good luck
Steve
'91 Bronco
Eddie Bauer
351W 4x4 cam, headers, custom exhaust
6" Explorer Procomp lift
(Still waiting for the 35" tires
)
Thread Starter
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Senior User
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 256
Likes: 0
From: Central Iowa
Installing a 4" lift
I used a drill to get the rivets out and only took about an hour on each side. Other than that I had no problems except that I lost one of the axle shims for the rear axle (I bet you are wondering how in the hell I managed that......answer=I have a 2 year old.) So after calling my dealer and spending $30 I have another one on the way. I am also waiting for the dropped pitman arm to arrive. I plan on having it back on the road (or should I say off the road) by Sunday. I will keep my fingers crossed because we all know what Murphy's law says. Other than that she looks beautiful and refreshing with her new attitude. Thanks for all the info guys.... as always you have been very helpful!
KJ
KJ
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