Lift = Suspension Travel

[swiperfoxx]

That is what is am thinking. So is this true? I would like a lift, Lets say 4inch Lift by Skyjacker will it be able to flex better than a 6inch Lift from SJ? Or does the lift just lets you add bigger tires? I am lost when it comes to narrowing down my search for the perfect Lift for my truck. Well I guess it depends on the amount of offroading i would be doing.

Suspension Lift = More wheel travel(better flexing)
OR
Suspension Lift = Bigger tires(which creates more clearance for the axle)

Correct me! I'm Lost!
I need some guidance.

 

[4x4junkie]

Height of lift does not necessarily correlate with flex, although it can to some extent affect total available wheel travel under dynamic conditions (vs. just sitting still while flexed).

Flex is to a degree a function of spring rate. In the case of the Skyjacker kits, the 6" coils are slightly softer than the 4s, so flex may be somewhat better with the 6. Other kits with stiffer coils (I.E. Superlift) will flex less.

Total wheel travel comes mostly from the available amount of shock travel. The taller the lift, the longer the shocks, and therefore the more available travel. Of course there is a practical limit to lift height which if exceeded, will result in dealing with steering nightmares and poor handling, not to mention the higher center of gravity will make the truck less stable as well.
On TTB suspensions 6" is the upper practical limit.

On my BII, I have just 3" lift on the suspension, but more flex (and travel) than any 4-6" kit would have out of the box. This comes from fine-tuning of the coil spring ratings and running extended-length shocks on modified mounts.

 

[metalmacguyver]

Another factor that affects how well a truck flexes is the radius arms. You can have soft coils that should allow you to flex great but not be able to take full advantage of it because you dont have extended radius arms.

 

[mjonesjr]

Another factor that affects how well a truck flexes is the radius arms. You can have soft coils that should allow you to flex great but not be able to take full advantage of it because you dont have extended radius arms.

Exactly. I can tell a huge difference in my BII with extended radius arms and my old '97 Ranger without.

 

[Will]

More on the radius arms is being discussed here. as it's a little more than just having extended arms.

Edit: Thanks mjones, fixed.

 

[swiperfoxx]

Great information guys. That is why I love TRS.