Hi. I've been slowly getting my 82 LB into shape and found that the front axle on the driver's side is about 1-3/4" back of where is should be. Anyway, the springs are wore out and all the bushings are rotted, so I may as well replace the suspension with a 2" lift, repair some steering components and reseal the axles while I'm at it. The plan is to do a 4.3 swap next year, or as time allows. But I'd like to get this part of the project completed in the coming month, so anyone who can suggest good quality kits/packages or shops to contact so I could get this ordered, I'd appreciate it.

 

I'm running 4"-5" ProComp springs in the front and a Trail Gear high-steer crossover kit and have zero complaints. It holds straight as an arrow at 75mph on 35x12.50 tires and I've taken some banked turns at 60-65 and it always feels in control.
If you're just lifting 2" I don't think you'll need to go high-steer but you'll be nearing the edge. Depending on how it handles after the lift you may want to consider it.
Everyone says good things about Old Man Emu lift kits.
Another popular option is to put rear springs up front or RUF.

Looks like you've got a couple Toyota trucks so please show us more of both of them!

 

X2 on the OME kit if you’re willing to wait about eight weeks.

 

Thanks for the reply. My plan with the '82 is to just raise it enough (I understand that 2" suspension plugs 2" body life is recommended, but maybe a 4" suspension is better? Or would that lead to hood clearance issues?) to install a 4.3 Chevy engine and then pop in some lockers and use it as my main weekend Toy. The '83 short box will be done next and I'll likely get more radical with it. They're such simple, yet incredibly well engineered vehicles. I appreciate the knowledge resource of forums like this one.

Anyway, here are the two old beasts as they sit today. Not the best photo, but cropped from my security camera footage.

Cheers!

 

Id do a 2in body lift for more room under the hood. I know you need it to do a 5vz swap, Im assuming the 4.3 has a tall intake as well.

 

I've got one 4.3 from a '98 Safari, so I'm thinking with the carb, intake and air filter it'll definitely be a bit taller than the 22R. 4" of total lift would be getting close to as much lift as I'd want, given my plan is to have the truck function as a good all around vehicle. The short box I'll get to when I want to get a little crazy.

 

if you do lift it, I'll buy your stock steering and traction bar off you! I even have a 3"' lift traction bar and drag link I would trade you.

PM me!