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Fumbling through the pros and cons of 2 or 4 inch lift? any advice?

Erik's K5

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Im looking to put a suspension lift on my blazer but im not positive as to the size. Im new to offroading so im not someone who is going to be on the trail every weekend and im trying to decide what size will best suit my needs? i was looking into a four with 35's but im not sure about driveline issues and also the gearing. whereas with a two with 33's i may not come across as many issues? any advice?
 
I'd run a 4" lift regardless of your tire size! You'll probably regret going with only a 2" lift sooner than later if you wind up enjoying the sport! You shouldn't have to worry any about your driveline with only 4" of lift, gearing is helpful, but far from essential. I used to run a truck with 35x10.5" boggers and 2.73 gears, it was slow, but did the job!
 
x2. a 4 inch lift doesnt look bad with 33s and when you decide to go for bigger tires you will already have the extra clearance.

for tires I think 33s are a good size to start out with. you will eventually want bigger tires and then even bigger tires. If you start out small your truck will last a lot longer before its hacked up and tubed out :D.
 
I honestly don't think a 4" looks bad on 265/75r16's either(about a 31) :D

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I was gonna do a 2".. went 4" and do not regret it all.
 
I like to use as little spring lift as possible. I gain clearance by cutting fenders and 1" body lift (if needed), going to a flat skid plate also really helps. I say 2" springs and 33s would be a good start. If you need more lift there are ways to put a little more lift without springs. I have found that springs with less arch flex better and ride better as well.
 
everyone has different wants and needs of course. I have found my stock suspension and 33in Goodyear MTR's are excellent offroad for trail use and some mud, but bigger rocks are not an option. In all honesty, the only reason im even looking to mod my suspension and drivetrain is because i WANT to, not because i NEED to. well..... actually my front springs are completely shot, so im using that as an excuse to do my 4in lift. From what ive read on here and other places, 4in is as big a lift as you can go without needing to modify anything else, aka driveshafts, brake lines, steering arms, etc. etc.
 
You need a steering arm and brake lines for a 4" lift, but those aren't a big deal.

I also would avoid lift kit shocks. F350 rear shocks work good and have much more travel and are cheaper.
 
Mine has a 4" lift with 33's, spring in the front and blocks in the back. Rancho shocks and it rides stiff as hell. I want to do a shackle flip and change the shocks. here is a pick.

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I have a k10 with a 2.5 and a K30 with 4". Depends what you are doing with it. If you are working or will be getting in and out all the time the 2.5 is great. The k30 is great for rock clearance. The 10 has 33"s and the 30 37". I would lift it 2 and cut if I went 35s. The other thing is I have broke the crap outta 1/2 ton stuff with 33s I wouldn't want 35s.
 
well thanks for all the advice guys! im still pondering but looking forward to the outcome! i hoping also to upgrade later to a 14 bolt rear but ill cross that road when i get there!
 
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14 bolt's........ plural?..... youre doing a 14 bolt front axle???? perchance you meant 1 ton axles? D60 front 14 bolt rear?

by the by, noticed you spell your name the right way, bravo :D

K5dreamer = Erik
 
yeah sorry about that! meant 14 bolt! and im actually hoping to find one out a 3/4 ton 6 lug i read an article in petersons 4 wheel drive and off road that says its supposed to be direct bolt in which would be nice! but Yes im proud to say i spell my name the right way hahahaha!
 
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