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Leveling kit - Handling change

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Old Jan 13, 2009 | 12:47 PM
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Sako 75
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From: Top Of The World, TN
Leveling kit - Handling change

"04 F-150 SCab 5.4L 4X4 w/ 6.5' bed.
I just installed a 2.5" Top Gun strut extension. Looks better than I expected, substantial change in handling though. I am waiting for my Firestone air bags, hope it restores some of the firmness to the steering. Anybody got any suggestions. BTW - Aftermarket 20" x 9" with Michelin LTX 275/60/20's(stand 33.5").

Thanks in advance from Tennessee
 
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Old Jan 13, 2009 | 12:55 PM
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Did you get it aligned yet?
 
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Old Jan 13, 2009 | 01:04 PM
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Sure. Took it to my tire shop first thing. It was extremely sensitive (toe-in) on the way to the shop. Much better on the way home. I knew that there would be some change with the kit. Will probably take some getting use to. I am very sensitive to any changes. My wife hates to ride with me because I notice every imperfection.
 
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Old Jan 13, 2009 | 01:09 PM
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What do you mean by "firmness"? Is the wheel not as quick to return to center after a turn? Is steering not as responsive? I've lifted a lot of trucks, but haven't lifted this one yet. I've seen lifts that change caster angles which makes it handle a bit different.
 
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Old Jan 13, 2009 | 01:14 PM
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By "firmness," I mean It takes less effort to turn the wheel while moving. Higher center of gravity? Still too much toe-in?
 
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Old Jan 13, 2009 | 01:26 PM
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Maybe others will chime in with their results. I have a 2" leveling kit I'll be installing when I get some free time.
 
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Old Jan 13, 2009 | 01:29 PM
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Thanks for your input. Good luck with your install.
 
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Old Jan 13, 2009 | 01:43 PM
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Thanks, I suspect it's a minor change in caster (angle of ball joints) that's making it easier to steer.
 
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Old Jan 13, 2009 | 02:51 PM
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i believe it's due to not being as heavy in the front end, the weight of the truck is more evenly distributed with it leveled
 
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Old Jan 13, 2009 | 03:08 PM
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I think your right on the weight distribution concept. I have a "full bed" pullout tool box that weighs about 275 lbs empty. That is why I am looking forward to the arrival and subsequent install of my air bags. I think that once I throw some of the weight back onto the front, things should be closer to "normal." BTW - what is -- and what reference do you use to determine "level?"

Thanks for the input guys. I am a newbie, can't tell you how much I appreciate all the help.
 
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Old Jan 14, 2009 | 03:44 AM
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leveled is the distance from the fender to the tire or ground when it is the same front and rear
 
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Old Jan 14, 2009 | 05:35 PM
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Thanks again for the input. Problem solved. I received a call from my tire shop this afternoon, evidently there was an issue with their alignment machine yesterday. They had a few complaints this morning. They re-aligned my front end and all is well.

You guys are great, thanks.
 
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Old Jan 15, 2009 | 07:48 AM
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I was gonna say that after I had installed the 2" leveling kit my truck was a little rough but after an alignment all was well again.
 
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