Lift kit Question

[20050626|2|003738|000000|68.158.211.165]

I am thinking of putting a 3" lift kit on my '83 K-5 Blazer, I need the xtra height for pulling a 28 ft. SeaRay , is this a very difficult job? and any suggestions about doing this would be helpful. Also , would just adding airshocks do the job. Thanks

[NH2112]

A solid axle, leaf-sprung truck is the easiest thing in the world to lift. It all boils down to simply supporting the truck by the frame, unbolting the axles from the springs, and unbolting the springs from the hangers or shackles. I've done it in a barracks parking lot with hand tools in about 12 hours, and this was on a truck that had spent 15 years or so in Maine. If you have access to air tools it will really be simple. Just soak everything down with penetrating oil for a few days before starting, and it wouldn't hurt to replace all the mounting hardware (especially the U-bolts.) You might want to replace the hanger and frame bushings with polyurethane for a tighter feel and better handling. Make sure to jack the truck high enough to allow for the lift when you put the wheels & tires back on.

[Dieselboy]

It can be one of the easiest mods you ever do. Most inexpensive kits consist of new front leaves and rear lift blocks, but it's worth the extra money to purchase full springs for the rear as well as the ride is much better and has less vibration. Nearly all kits include U-bolts and hardware, but not much else.

Things that you will need other than springs, blocks, u-bolts, and hardware:
extended brake lines - braided stainless steel is nice
steering correction - steering arm, draglink, or pitman arm
new driveshafts - typically not a problem for anything 3" and under
numerically higher gears - only if you're changing tire size
swaybar correction - not a must, but it sure does make the ride better

Tuff Country, BDS, and Skyjacker make nice springs; I would stay away from Superlift and Procomp. Off-Road Design (http://www.offroaddesign.com) is a good outfit, and they can help you sort out a good system. Ask for Stephen.

PS: Take a look at my website. There's an article about my rear springs install. It's more about a conversion to longer leaves, but your process will be the same minus all tha bracket work that I did.

my rear springs (http://www.oliverdiesel.com/products/tuffcountry.htm)

[cschneider]

I have not seen a 3" kit myself but even if I had I would still recommend a 2 1/2" kit. You will not have to worry about steering, brake lines, driveshafts etc with that small a lift. This will also enable you to run 33" tires or 35s with fender cut outs.

[20050626|2|003738|000000|68.158.211.165]

Thanks to all for their info. Capt. Bob

[n0n0_1963]

Capt. Bob if you install a lift kit and your truck is old don't be cheap . I strongly suggest to change the FOUR leaf spring, do not use block in the back.
I try to save some money and end up by having to buy the rear one, too much bump steer and I almost kill myself.
I install a Rough Country, it came complete with good instruction and it's a bolt on kit, ride smooth , I recommand it.

[20050626|2|003738|000000|68.158.211.165]

Sounds like good advice to me, Thanks

[Low_Bridge]

Howdy Neighbor-
I've Used Tampa Spring over the years for different stuff & they've always done me right.