Lifting your 4WD or SUV can make a serious difference in its off-road capability and overall appearance.
However, with so many different types of lift kits available on the market, it can be hard to know where to start.
In this article, Fulcrum Suspension explores the differences between two common types of lift kits: body lifts and suspension lifts.
Body Lifts
A body lift raises the body of your 4WD or SUV off the frame by adding spacers or blocks between the body and the frame. This allows for larger tires and extra ground clearance, but without changing the suspension. However, it is important to note that a body lift only lifts the body, and not the suspension.
On the other hand, a spacer lift kit or block lift kit lifts the suspension of the vehicle. These kits use spacers or blocks to raise the height of the suspension, allowing for larger tires and greater ground clearance. However, they do not replace or upgrade the factory springs and shocks.
A suspension lift kit is a full upgrade of the vehicle's suspension system, including springs, shocks, and other components. This type of lift kit provides the most significant increase in ground clearance and allows for the use of larger tires. Suspension lift kits are often used for off-road applications where maximum clearance is needed.
Suspension Lifts
A suspension lift raises the entire vehicle, including the suspension, which can improve off-road capability and provide additional ground clearance.
Suspension lift kits usually come with longer coil springs or strut spacers, and may also include longer control arms or torsion bars. This allows for more tire clearance and larger wheels, which can help your truck or SUV handle more challenging off-road terrain.
A suspension lift can also help to level out your vehicle, which can be especially useful if you carry heavy loads or frequently tow. It can help to correct the angle of your truck's suspension, which can improve ride quality and prevent premature wear on your suspension components.
However, suspension lifts can be expensive, and require more complicated installation than body lift kits.
They can also affect your truck's steering geometry, which can cause handling issues if not properly addressed. Post-installation alignment is necessary to ensure proper handling and prevent premature tire wear.
Which Lift is Right for You?
Choosing between a body lift and a suspension lift ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use.
If you want to improve your off-road capabilities and add more ground clearance, a suspension lift is likely the better choice.
However, if you're looking for a more affordable option to add larger tires and a powerful look to your truck or SUV, a body lift might be the way to go.
In general, body lifts are easier to install, less expensive, and maintain factory ride quality.
Suspension lifts offer more off-road capability, but can be more expensive and require additional modifications to your truck's suspension and drivetrain.
Discover the Ultimate Lift Kit With Fulcrum Suspension
In the end, choosing between a body lift and a suspension lift comes down to your priorities and intended use for your truck or SUV.
Whether you're off-roading, looking to improve your vehicle's appearance, or simply want to add extra ground clearance, there's a lift kit out there that can meet your needs.
At Fulcrum Suspensions, we offer a wide range of lift kits for most vehicles, including simple kits for those who want to add a few inches of lift, as well as more advanced suspension lift kits for serious off-roading.
Contact us today to learn more about your options for lifting your truck or SUV.
Body Lift Kit - Suspension Lift Kit - Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a lift kit cost in Australia?
The price range of a lift kit installation can vary greatly depending on several factors such as the make and model of the vehicle, the age of the vehicle, the level of customization required, and the type of components being changed.
Generally, lift kits can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on these variables.
At our Fulcrum Suspensions, we offer a free consultation to assess your vehicle and discuss your specific lift kit needs.
Our expert staff can provide you with a detailed written quotation for the supply, installation, and set up of your lift kit, so you can make an informed decision based on your budget and specific requirements.
We understand that lifting your vehicle can be a big investment, and we strive to provide transparent pricing and high-quality workmanship to ensure your complete satisfaction.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your lift kit installation.
What are the pros and cons of a body lift?
A body lift has several pros and cons to consider when deciding if it is the right choice for your vehicle. Here are some of the main pros and cons of a body lift:
Pros:
- Relatively inexpensive: Compared to a suspension lift, a body lift is generally less expensive and can be a good option for those on a tighter budget.
- Maintains factory ride quality: A body lift raises the body of the vehicle while leaving the suspension in its original position, so it does not affect the ride quality of the vehicle.
- Allows for larger tires: A body lift can provide extra clearance for larger tires, which can improve off-road performance and give your vehicle a more aggressive look.
- Can be used to correct sagging: If your vehicle is experiencing sagging or a drooping body, a body lift can help to correct this issue.
Cons:
- Does not improve off-road performance: Unlike a suspension lift, a body lift does not improve off-road capability and may not be suitable for those who frequently go off-roading.
- May look awkward: With a body lift, there can be a noticeable gap between the body and the frame, which some people may find unattractive or awkward-looking.
- Limited amount of lift available: A body lift typically only provides a few inches of lift, so if you are looking for a more significant lift, a suspension lift may be a better option.
- Can increase body roll: By raising the centre of gravity, a body lift can increase body roll and decrease stability when cornering.
Ultimately, the decision to choose a body lift depends on your intended use for your vehicle and your personal preferences.
If you are looking for a relatively inexpensive way to add larger tires and improve the look of your vehicle, a body lift may be a good option.
However, if you want to improve off-road performance and provide more ground clearance, a suspension lift may be a better choice.
How do I learn more about suspension systems?
If you want to learn more about suspension systems for your vehicle, there are several resources available to you.
One great resource is the Fulcrum Suspension Guide to Suspension Systems. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about suspension systems, including the different types of suspension systems available, how to choose the right suspension system for your vehicle, and how to install and maintain your suspension system. You can access the guide on our website or by contacting our team.
Additionally, our expert team at Fulcrum Suspensions is always available to answer any questions you may have about suspension systems. Whether you are looking to upgrade your current suspension system or just want to learn more about how suspensions work, our team can provide you with the information and guidance you need.
Contact us today to speak with one of our suspension experts and learn more about how we can help you get the most out of your vehicle's suspension system.
