To lift, or not to lift...

I've had my 2014 TRD Sport 4x4 DCLB for a few months now and have been kicking around the idea of adding a 2" lift kit. The headstrong kit in particular with 5100's and their 2" lift coils and 3 leaf AAL. I don't want to have to chase vibes or change UCAs to get it aligned. Just looking to gain a little ground clearance and improve the stance.

So am I getting myself up for chasing drivetrain vibrations and additional suspension component replacement and reduced component lifespan with 2" of lift?

 

I don’t think you are based on my experience with my Gen 2 and Gen 3 DCLBs. 5100’s with OME 885 and AAL. Decent lift for decent price, and makes a world of difference IMO.

 

I don't have any issues. Probably stressing ball joints and such but so are my tires and added weight. Only thing is I thoroughly enjoy the truck and it's a small price to pay for the enjoyment I get out of it.

 

There are always potential issues associated with lifting. That's just the nature of the beast. For me and many others, it's worth the minor headaches. But definitely don't go into it thinking everything will be 100% hunk dory moving forward. Often times the headaches are fairly minor (squeaks, clunks, etc.). The ucas will also be hit or miss too. Typically if you stay around 2'' you're fine, but I would still keep an open mind.

 

Main question is why you want to lift it? I lifted my 3rd gen, and regret it. I did it for off-road capability, but it really seems that it was not needed. I'd prefer a stock suspension without the headaches of chasing little things down as @Fluffymonkey said. If you want it for looks - you just need to be willing to do the work to get that look and maintain it.

 

What specifically do you regret?

 

What products did you use when you “lifted “ your truck

 

Just the ongoing maintenance of dialing everything in. With the lift, I then did UCA's. The lift also allowed me bigger tires, which caused me to chase down clearance issues in the wheel well. Things loosen up occasionally, etc. Nothing major at all - but for the off-roading I do, I didn't NEED the lift. And I would have been very happy with the appearance without one. So for me, the lift wasn't necessary.

 

No regrats

 

OME 888 coils and Nitrocharger shocks. Light Racing SPC UCA's. Diff drop, rear lift blocks (no AAL or leaf pack). Rides great - just a lot of tweaking to get it dialed in.

 

Sounds like a decent setup, in fact more then decent . Why the regret ?

 

Just because I didn't NEED to do it. I'm pretty mechanically inclined, but if I have an issue I can't chase down, finding a technician to help is more challenging with a non-stock vehicle. My dealer is pretty good to work with on most things, but I'd have more peace of mind knowing my truck is like the 100 others they see daily if something is wrong.

 

I say lift it...If it’s done right and you have an alignment guy that knows what he’s doing you shouldn’t have any problems.