Hi...

I have a 99 F150 4X4 Sport and recently installed a set of 295/45 18 (Lightning) wheels and tires. I really love the looks of my truck except I think I will need to lower the truck to get the desired handling performance that I want. Only if Ford would offer a Lightning with Extended Cab, I wouldn't have to worry about this!!!

Anyway, here is my dillema... Like I said, I have a 4X4 with extra ground clearance from the factory that I like when going off road... but I would also like to get better on road handling from those new performance tires that I just installed.

Is there a way to have an adjustable suspension setup? I would like be able to lower my truck 4-5" for summer/performance driving, yet be able to lift my truck back to the current 4X4 ride height for off road usage and winter driving (with stock set of tires),as well... Is there a way to achieve this without going to the whole expense and complexity of "Hydraulic" suspension setup? I really don't care for all the intricate height changes that this type of system offers... I only need two settings... 1) up (4X4 - Offroad) and 2) down for normal city driving...

Anyone? Your ideas/experiences would be greatly appreciated.

I included a photo... It definitely needs to be lowered... HELP!!!

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<img src="https://www.f150online.com/galleries/images/223-236-1504.jpg" border="0" alt=""> <br />
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Well,
I have seen some air suspension systems that are adjustable from slightly lowered to higher than stock. I think AIM industries makes an air kit for 4x4's. A simple airbag kit on the rear can keep it rasied at full inflation and lower it with less air pressure. The torsion bar front suspension is out of my understanding, though. Hope I helped a little

 

I am open for any suggestions... That's great, streetcrusier, thanks a bunch...

I am in my research mode... Trying to find out as much as possible about this subject...

Hmm... Any idea how much an air suspension system goes for?

Thanks.

Street cruiser,

I noticed that you have your truck lowered with Eibachs... What did that cost you and where did you get them installed? Is there a way I can get some part numbers from you?

 

Well,
I have no clue what the part numbers on the Eibach stuff I have is but, the springs were 159 and shackles and hangers were about 250. I had them installed for about 400 I think. I had this work done over three years ago now.
Anyway, an air suspension kit can run anywhere from 1500 to 2500 dollars. Air suspension is not all that great IMHO because a busted airline equals broken truck. It's up to you but I will never use air suspension. Steel suspension is the best. You sould just look for a mild 2-4 drop and some bigger tires foir those 18's. that would look killer. Anyway, good luck on your truck.

 

An air system, depending on what you want to do, will probabley be around 2000 dollars. My suggestion is buy a copy of Truckin' and just research. There are lots of companys that do it, you just have to go through the hulking beast.

 

That's a great idea!!! I haven't gotten one of those magazines for a while... Thanks...