So, after endless reading and much consideration, I finally settled on a choice for my tire/suspension combo. Since I was up-sizing my tires, I knew that I was going to need to do the lift along with it to prevent any terrible rubbing.
UPDATE: Although I have always bought my tires from Discount Tire Direct, I have recently been informed that they have made me an affiliate for their brand. I still continue to buy my tires from them (they are not free for me), however, if you like my website and you choose to purchase through one of my links, I could potentially receive nominal compensation.
The Setup:
Tires: Falken A/T3W 275/65/18 (32 inch) – Load Rating E
Wheels: Factory 18 inch wheels with 1.25 inch spacers.
Front Suspension:
Rear Suspension:
- ICON VS 2.0 (0-3″ of lift)
- Toytec Superflex Coils (2″ of lift)
The Install:
Since my truck came with the cross linked suspension, XREAS, I needed to first remove that. I was able to disconnect all of the lines at the check points without leaking fluid at all. I wasn’t trying to save the system, just didn’t want to make a mess. After removing the lines, it was time to get down to business.
As so many projects I’ve done on cars, it never ends up being as simple as it should. I had originally intended to do the non spring compressor method of my install, but after wasting about an hour and a half of my time trying to outsmart my suspension components, I gave up and went to Advance Auto and rented a compressor. The springs were just too long for me to fit into the tower and move it into the bottom mount too. Regardless, after I got the compressor the fronts were a breeze! I will say, I was a bit worried I’d have too much lift based on the suspension at full droop. I am about 1mm off the UCA…Fortunately, it all worked out and looks great.
The rears, as per usual, ended up being a PITA as well. Didn’t take too long, but man were those top mount nuts seized! On the passenger side I loosened it a quarter turn at a time after heating it with a torch. The driver side snapped off on my first crank after heating it. It didn’t matter though, they were going in the trash anyway. Because the springs were longer, I really had to flex the axle to place them, but it was pretty easy.
After the install, I added in my spacers and got the tires mounted. I was rubbing pretty good on the front fender liner so I took five minutes to push them forward. Now, after my alignment, I rub on the mud flap — probably because I’m on stock UCAs and am below spec on caster. It’s really not too bad though.
All in all, I got about a 3/2 lift with this setup. I still have a little rake, but I think the stance is perfect right now.
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