To Lift or not to lift???

Ok . So I'm not really new but never post just read. I have read a ton of stuff about lifting 3rd gens and all the issues, and all the different options. There is an tremendous amount of information on the subject. Its way to much to be exact. I really would like to go with the bilstein 5100 lift and level out the back with an AAL ,so I can run something like 275/70 r 17 AT tires on 17 x 9 rims. So , my question is, is it really worth it ? I see all this talk about adding differential drop kits and bearing issues, differential issues tying up the front drive shaft and so on. I really like my truck and would love to customize it somewhat, but I don't want all the issues. Can you guys please give me some advice and not beat me up to bad if this a beat to death issue ? I would really appreciate it.
I thought I had this all figured out. I was planning on ordering my lift today but, after reading a few more posts I 'm worried.There is way to many variables with the different lift options and tire, rim sizes. I am more confused now. I want to put a lift on and run the biggest tire possible but, i don't want to cut and bend and beat the truck up . I also don't want to have issues with bearings and other parts wearing out prematurely. Thanks again for the input.

 

From what I read a 3 inch lift is fine the issues are when you get over that. I run 285/70 and 17x9 Rims. I did not regear, haven’t trimmed or did cmc. I did a 3 inch lift and on the alignment they pushed out the caster. No issues.

 

it depends on what YOU want to do with the truck. Mine almost never goes into tough places, so I went with a 2" front spacer, super bumps and wheelers add a leaf. I did the ECGS bushing in the front while I was putting in the spacers, so I will never know if I needed it or not...
I know it will sound weird, but we all have about the same truck, but each truck seems to act differently to being lifted. I had to re-do the add a leaf pack, because I needed 3 degree shims to get rid of a slight vibration. some trucks don't need the shim.
I have read a lot, and agree, that to do it right, replace the springs, add bilsteins, and what ever you want for an add a leaf. (over 1 inch, and you might run into axle wrap).
hope this helps

 

Thanks for the info. Glad to hear you didn't have issues going that high. That's what is also confusing. Some have issues and some don't.

 

Thanks for the information. It would be mostly for looks with occasional off road and nothing extreme. That's what I don't understand, how can some have all these issues and others not have them. I don't want to have major issues with the truck but would like to lift it . I know the dealership sells new trucks with the 2" spacers and a 1" block and also offers to lift my truck but, they charge way to much. With that being said they couldn't say the lift causes issues and not warranty issues but, I don't want the headache.

 

Hate to be the grammer police but its in the title so change it before you get flamed. To* not TOO.

To answer your question. Depends on what youre going to do and budget. Diff drop is not NECESSARY but it does come in some kits so might as well use it. If you dont go offroad much, honestly a small spacer and addaleaf isnt terrible. Bunch of trucks on the road that do that. If you do offroad it much theres the risk of breaking a shock with the spacer though, but it is the cheapest route.

If you do offroad it, and have a bigger budget, i'd call toytec and get some recommendations for what youre looking for specifically in your budget. They definitely know the ins and outs of each kit.

 

Thanks for catching it . I can figure out how to edit the post ,just not the heading. Thanks for the information as well.

 

Go to your thread and in the right corner next to "watch thread" it will say "thread tools", click on that then click on edit to make changes.

 

These two things don't go together. Tire size is limited by the size of the wheel well and anything the tire may hit as the suspension cycles.

 

Thanks . I think I got it right this time. hahaha

 

I meant I want to run the biggest tire possible without cutting ,welding and hammering the fender wells. Lifting the truck is ok just not hacking it up.

 

Big heavy tires make these trucks absolutely gutless and less fun to drive, i recommend you stick to the 255/265 widths. If you lift you better be prepared to work on your rig a lot and fix stuff

 

Than you're limited to around stock size unless you adjust bumpstops to limit travel. Lifting the vehicle on its own does not allow a larger tire to fit since the larger tire has to go somewhere as the suspension cycles.

 

Even with a 2" lift? That's why the question to lift or not to? Some people seem to have all kinds of issues while others none??

 

2" is ideally the max for these 3rd gens. Best tire for that to still enjoy the power and mpg is 265/75/16, 265/70/17, 255/85/16, 255/75/17. Heavy tires like 285's and bigger also take a toll on your transmission and powertrain over time (not debatable).

Keep in mind the front end of the 3rd gens is 300lbs heavier than the 2nd gen so spring choice is important, especially when considering bumper, winch, etc.

I haven't had a ton of issues, just small things like vibes and ECGS bushing needed. Anytime you change the stock geometry, things will come up over time. This is why CV angles are important. Bad angles may drive OK for a bit, but after a while it degrades fast. Depends on how long and how little you want to worry about stuff if you are or aren't one who has time or patience toward on your rig

 

Ok. Got it. Thanks. Just saw a thread for 265/75 r 16 and would like to do something along those lines . Still need the bumpstops adjusted with something like that and would I still have the bearing and vibration issues?

 

I ran this tire size A LONG time without new bump stops and it was fine. Unless you are running a really nice extended travel setup you probably won't need to worry about it. If you are inclined check out Toyotabumpstops.com

Sorry for hijacking @computeruser6

 

That should fit without any lift.

 

So as long as I do the Differential drop, carrier bearing drop and stay at 2" I shouldn't have any issues?

 

The carrier bearing drop is a LAST resort. Your front shaft should be straight in the factory setting. Adjust at the rear axle using 2 or 3 degree shims (if needed) under your leafs.