Rookie questions on lifting & steering

[RedBear]

I got a extended cab 1997 xlt 4.0L 5 speed for cheap. I’ve always liked working on cars and ever since I moved to SD in 2000 I’ve wanted to build a dessert truck. So this is my first try at all this so I’m not going to drop big bucks on parts.

My main question is, when I do a lift, am I going to need to purchase new steering components (tie rods, ball joints, pitman arm etc)? Right now I’m considering the autofab econlift as I can pick it up locally and upgrade it to the middle of the road option later if everything is going well.

My other question is, are the rough country & super lifts really that bad? What if I run quality shocks (bilstien etc) instead of the ones in the kit?

Please understand I’ve read lots on the internet but the more info I find the more confused I get. That’s why im starting a new thread. Thanks!

 

[ericbphoto]

Have you read through lift and suspension articles in the how to tech section on this site? This may answer some of your questions. Also check out the articles about steering.

Start here

Suspension and Body Lifts - The Ranger Station

DISCLAIMER: Activities and vehicle modifications appearing or described at The Ranger Station and it’s pages may be potentially dangerous. We do not endorse any such activity for others or recommend it to any particular person – we simply describe … Continued

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How much steering you need to replace depends on the type and amount of lift you do. If you go more than 2 or 3 inches, it will probably be a good idea to get a pitman arm with more drop so that your steering linkage stays in the right geometry. Many times, that's all you need to correct the steering.

 

[bobbywalter]

Use dictates product selection.