Los Gatos?

Is there any way to lift a 2wd 4" ??? An '85 to be exact...if it matters. I know sas is better but is there any big lift for 2wd, or can you use the same as 4wd??

Todd E

Well, yes and no.
There are a couple companies that make suspension lifts for the front in a 3" variety:
Fabtech and Downey I know for sure, possibly Total Chaos as well.
As for the rear, you can use 4" lift springs for a 4wd, but you have to reverse the alignment pin in the springs (not hard) and mount them under your axle (they'll bolt up).
The 4wd and 2wd spring dimentions are basically identical, the 4wd has an extra spring in the pack and it's mounted over the axle (that's where the difference in height comes from).
The front is totally different than a 4wd IFS (from what I understand, although I don't know for sure).
I'd like to get ahold of a IFS lift kit and see if anything would bolt up.
You'd have to re-use the spindles that came with your truck. I know those are different.
Hope this helps
Todd

Todd E

Forgot to add,
All three of those companies make a 6" lift (runs about $1500 to $2000) and basically replaces your whole front end suspension components. Makes your truck into a pre-runner.
I think Fabtech classifies it as an off-road only mod, but I'm not totally sure.
For that kind of $$$ though, I'd probably but an older 4x4, or SAS the 2wd
Todd

Los Gatos?

But to upgrade to 4wd I'd need rear axle, the whole sas, trans, xcase, etc. I don't think I really need 4wd if I get a locker, in fact I'm pretty sure I'd rather stick with 2wd. I will look into the 4" lift kits, just the lift can't be more exspensive than the whole 4wd treatment. I don't want to sell the truck, due to the condition (very good except for bed rust which is easily fixed) and the fact that I put a TON of time into the stereo, not ready to let go yet. I do have a good offer on the truck, but it's my baby, and it hurts when the sub hits.

Todd E

I COMPLETELY understand!
That's why I'm also modding my '86 2wd
I'm torn between going the full-blown prerunner and the SAS myself.
One thing I might do is get a 4wd transmission (with transfer case) so I can use a 4wd driveshaft (also so I can get a 1 piece driveshaft). With my truck being so long, I'm running into problems with driveline angles between the carrier bearing and rear axle. Still working on that.
Also, with a 4wd tranny/t-case I'd get a low range
should help in preventing me from getting stuck
Of course, the full-blown setup won't happen for a while. Gotta get my wife a car before that.
Todd

Los Gatos?

I'd consider a 4wd trans and case, that would make sense. I am due for a new clutch eventually, and probably a trans rebuild as well (eventually), so maybe instead of rebuilding I will just swap in a 4wd w/ case. A low range and a locker and even just a little lift would be enough to get me where I want to be.

Todd E

Man I'm blind or something
I just noticed your signature line - 85 longbed extracab
Basically the same as mine, but I have an 86!
I'll get some pictures of my truck with the lift (and my summer tires) next week and post them for you.
That way you can see the height of the Fabtech lift and taller springs with 27" tall tires.
Have fun with the mods
Todd

Los Gatos?

How would the Fabtech 3.5" compare to a 4x4 truck? Around that same size as a non-lifted rig??

Todd E

It gets close.
I sit about the same height as a stock Jeep GC with my winter tires (about 26" tall)
I don't think I'd have any problems fitting 28" or 29" tires under it (besides gearing)
Assuming it stops raining, I'll be switching back to my summer tires today. Then I can get a somewhat decent photo for you.
Todd