1997 - 2003 F-150

minor lift and upper control arms

Old Feb 23, 2012 | 04:54 PM
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wilderthing's Avatar
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minor lift and upper control arms

I have a 98 f150 2wd that I want to lift about 2"- purely for function, not show, and not to be a trail rig.

I'm lifting the rear with blocks for towing and better shocks, and want to keep the factory rake. the rear will prob have factory 4x4 blocks- heard they bolt right up

I either want to use coil spacers or lift coils since I can't seem to find a 2" spindle. I am still undecided.

I know coils and coil spacers can add stress to the ball joints, so I was wondering if 4x4 upper control arms are any longer then the 2wd version.

If they are longer and I lift it it would give me a factory ride correct? And not wear out the ball joints prematurely?

Thanks in advance
 
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Old Feb 23, 2012 | 06:05 PM
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you wont need them with a coil spacer, up to a 2". Lift Spindles for 2wds are 3.5" Tall,

and i think the 4x4 upper control arm is a different shape, **I THINK**

for simplicity the coil spacer is your best bet.
 
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Old Feb 23, 2012 | 09:21 PM
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Keep the stock arms, 4x4 ones are no different, not sure why they would be. Just don't go over 2" and you'll be fine.
 
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Old Feb 23, 2012 | 11:39 PM
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Originally Posted by pizzaman711
Keep the stock arms, 4x4 ones are no different, not sure why they would be. Just don't go over 2" and you'll be fine.
i thought they had a different shape, hmm must be thinking of a different aftermarket set, my bad. :o
 
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Old Feb 24, 2012 | 11:10 AM
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Oh, I meant no different as in they won't allow you to adjust out any farther than stock 4x2 ones will. Same length, not sure about shape haha.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2012 | 05:02 PM
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Thanks for all the help guys.

So it looks like I should go with a coil spacer. are they as safe as with out them? How would the ride be with them? I assume not as good? Also metal or poly material for them?

I want to keep my factory tires so I think 3.5" spindles would be to much lift. Basically want a stock 4x4 stance. Are the spindles weaker then factory?

Sorry for all the questions but I really appreciate all your input.

EDIT: Also, Pizzaman711, you're suspension do's and don'ts thread has really helped me. I just couldn't find what people thought of ride quality for the set up I'm looking for, unless I overlooked it, sorry.
 

Last edited by wilderthing; Feb 24, 2012 at 05:19 PM. Reason: Thanking Pizzaman
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