5 keys to lift your SUV

Forklifts offer great style and performance benefits. Lifting your truck or SUV adds a rugged appearance that is sure to catch the eye of other drivers. The correct lift kit also gives you the ability to travel off-road.

There are positives that a lift can offer to your vehicle, however there are at least as many negatives to consider before purchasing.

The first and foremost thing is safety; Lift kits raise your truck’s center of gravity, making it more prone to rollovers. The lifts also raise the height of the bumper (and any reinforcing material behind the bumper) which could cause serious injury in a crash. The bumpers were made to collide with other bumpers, not other passengers. Plus, sitting up high can improve visibility for a driver looking straight ahead, but what about those pesky cars traveling in your blind spot? Now all of these negatives are not reasons not to put a boost in your SUV, just items to consider before you buy, ensuring you do quality work that will last the life of your car.

Have you considered what your original wheels will look like on your new and improved “monster” truck? Many truck owners also purchase new tires and tires to match the look of their elevated truck. This is a great idea and continues to contribute to the individuality of your vehicle. However, don’t forget that this will likely add more expenses to your project. Another downside is that when your wheel size changes significantly, your speedometer needs to be recalibrated. The mechanic who assembles your lift system can easily take care of this.

Another thing to consider is the ride quality. Will my new elevator alter the feel of my car? Will driving on the highway become less smooth? What about fuel economy? While lift kits undoubtedly make an off-road ride much more enjoyable and smooth, the case may not be the same on the road. Request a test drive of an elevated vehicle from your local dealer to understand the feeling of sitting higher than usual.

Once you’ve tackled the issues related to lifting your truck or SUV, it’s time to decide what type of lift you need. There are two different options: a body lift or a suspension lift. A suspension lift kit raises the entire frame, engine and power train, using springs, to the desired height. This option is ideal for true off-road enthusiasts. It’s a bit more expensive than the other option, but it gives you the best headroom for off-road capabilities. A body lift is just that, lifting the body. It does not lift the frame. This method is usually much cheaper and looks great, but it doesn’t give your truck more headroom when off-road. If you want your truck to look unique and stylish, and you only need to drive on established roads, a body lift is probably your best option.

The next step in your search for truck lift equipment is to make the purchase. The most important thing is to look for the best deals and quality equipment. Get quotes from your local auto body shop. Ask them what kits they would recommend and how much each type of kit will cost to install. Don’t forget to get a timeline of how long the project will take. The internet is also a great source. Look for different lifts online and compare the prices with your body shop. A great way to save money is to purchase the kit of your choice online and then take it to your local mechanic to have it installed for you. Another good place to look is truck magazines. Not only do they have great ads selling the latest and greatest lift kits, but the magazine could also provide information on which companies have good warranties and which kits have stood the test of time and durability.

Before you jump on the lift kit wagon, don’t forget your vehicle-related issues and a lift kit. By researching and finding the best lift kit for your truck, you’ll be ensuring thousands of miles of off-road bliss ahead!