Need Help lifting 88 4runner
Danimal420
07-19-2004, 09:09 PM
I want to put larger tires on my 88 runner. I would like to run 33's. My main concerns are that my IFS is strong enough to handle larger tires, and that the lift is as small as possible to minimize changes in my driveshaft angle. Can anyone make some suggestions on the type of lift and the minimum height I need to run 33 inch tires on this truck. Are there things I can do to beef up my IFS?
Another related question involves changing my gear ratio to compensate for the larger tires. My gear ratio is stock. I am a begginer mechanic and have minimal tools, can I change the gears myself or should I have the shop handle it? What gear ratio should I try to get for the front and rear. My mechanic tells me that I need a new rear diff and I was going to have him put a positrac into it. Should I have him change the ratio then, to save me money, or can I change the ratio later?
Finally, I was wondering when you have an IFS and you put bigger tires on it does it increase your clearance? I have heard that IFS limits your clearance, is it true? THANKS FOR YOUR HELP :)
Another related question involves changing my gear ratio to compensate for the larger tires. My gear ratio is stock. I am a begginer mechanic and have minimal tools, can I change the gears myself or should I have the shop handle it? What gear ratio should I try to get for the front and rear. My mechanic tells me that I need a new rear diff and I was going to have him put a positrac into it. Should I have him change the ratio then, to save me money, or can I change the ratio later?
Finally, I was wondering when you have an IFS and you put bigger tires on it does it increase your clearance? I have heard that IFS limits your clearance, is it true? THANKS FOR YOUR HELP :)
Brian R.
07-19-2004, 11:44 PM
Danimal420
07-20-2004, 05:55 PM
Chech this site out for general information:
http://www.off-road.com/toyota/tech/other/4_axles.html
Thanks that is a great web site for info. :smile:
Do you know of any other good sites for me. I am an information junkie.
http://www.off-road.com/toyota/tech/other/4_axles.html
Thanks that is a great web site for info. :smile:
Do you know of any other good sites for me. I am an information junkie.
Brian R.
07-20-2004, 07:55 PM
VTISC007
07-25-2004, 11:48 AM
If you were to put an actual lift kit on it, this is what you have to choose from, a 4 inch lift and a 4 inch lift, take your pick. My guess is you'll probably go for the 4 inch lift.
Do your research, there are good ones and there are bad one. I used "Skyjacker", no complaints. The biggest difference is if the brackets that are used to reposition the lower control arms are "one piece" or "three piece". The "one piece" are the best for strength, the "three piece" should be welded together after installation to avoid alignment problems.
Another option is to use some good aftermarket torsion bars from Downey or, I think, TRD for the front. For the rear, you could use an ADD-A-LEAF. If you go with this option, you should only go up to 32 inch tires.
The best gear ratio for 33's is 4.88.
4.56 is recommended for 31's.
For 32's I'd still go with 4.88
If you need a new rear end, you will save money if you have what ever it needs done at the same time as opposed to having to go back in and make some changes; and also, you need to have the front and rear differentials done at the same time, that's if you plan on using four wheel drive.
note-If you don't know what you're doing don't mess with the diff's, it will cost more money later when you start breaking stuff. I took mine to my 4X4 mechanic. I trust him because he works on differentials for Drag Race cars and Exteme 4Wheel drive rigs. Mine was done 4 years ago, no problems, knock on wood. 1988 4Runner V6, 5 speed, SR5, Skyjacker Suspension, Downey Torsion Bars, 15X10 Alcoa Challengers, 33X12.50R15 Goodyear MT/R's, K&N filter charger kit, Borla Exhuast, 4.88's with a Detroit Locker in the rear, Kaymar rear bumper with rear tire carrier (33X9.50R15 BFG A/T), front bumper from All-Pro Off Road rock crawler specialists. I have some other things lined up, but I'm running out of things to do. And if you have to ask, her name is Sabrina.
Do your research, there are good ones and there are bad one. I used "Skyjacker", no complaints. The biggest difference is if the brackets that are used to reposition the lower control arms are "one piece" or "three piece". The "one piece" are the best for strength, the "three piece" should be welded together after installation to avoid alignment problems.
Another option is to use some good aftermarket torsion bars from Downey or, I think, TRD for the front. For the rear, you could use an ADD-A-LEAF. If you go with this option, you should only go up to 32 inch tires.
The best gear ratio for 33's is 4.88.
4.56 is recommended for 31's.
For 32's I'd still go with 4.88
If you need a new rear end, you will save money if you have what ever it needs done at the same time as opposed to having to go back in and make some changes; and also, you need to have the front and rear differentials done at the same time, that's if you plan on using four wheel drive.
note-If you don't know what you're doing don't mess with the diff's, it will cost more money later when you start breaking stuff. I took mine to my 4X4 mechanic. I trust him because he works on differentials for Drag Race cars and Exteme 4Wheel drive rigs. Mine was done 4 years ago, no problems, knock on wood. 1988 4Runner V6, 5 speed, SR5, Skyjacker Suspension, Downey Torsion Bars, 15X10 Alcoa Challengers, 33X12.50R15 Goodyear MT/R's, K&N filter charger kit, Borla Exhuast, 4.88's with a Detroit Locker in the rear, Kaymar rear bumper with rear tire carrier (33X9.50R15 BFG A/T), front bumper from All-Pro Off Road rock crawler specialists. I have some other things lined up, but I'm running out of things to do. And if you have to ask, her name is Sabrina.
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