Questions about lifting a 96 Ranger 4.0

[Florodoltarzan]

Hi all,

I'm new to the forum as well as to working on cars (have worked on boats and bikes previously). In addition I'm Swedish (live in Stockholm) so it's a bit of a challenge to understand all the niche language related to trucks, but I'm sure I'll work it out as we go...

So here's the story: last Saturday I went and got me a 96 Ranger ext. cab 4x4, 4.0, stock suspension and tires. Five mins after I bought it the "check engine" light came on but I'm sure I'll figure that out once I get cracking on it.

Obviously the truck looks like crap with the current setup so I've been researching this and other Ranger forums for inspiration on how to go about lifting it. I have some idiot questions that I haven't managed to find the answers to:

I'm thinking about getting 2" levelling spacers AND a PA 3" body lift kit.

1) Can I combine these two lifts at all?
2) Given that they can be combined, will I have to customize additional parts such as the steering extension included in the PA 3" kit if I go for this combo or will everything work as described in the PA installation instructions?
3) If I only get the 3" body lift kit, does this require a wheel alignment or not? I know that the spacer install requires an alignment but I'm not sure if I need one for the body lift kit...

Also, if anyone knows any member who has a 2nd gen. Ranger with 3" body lift (only) and 32's I'd love to check out some pics as I'm really dubious when it comes choosing between 32's and 33's.

Any input on these question is much appreciated. Thanks for a great forum btw!

Laters,

Henrik

 

[RangerSVT]

You can fit 32s with no lift, 33s no lift and minor rubbing at full lock. 3" body lift does not require an alignment, and no extra parts, but if you have a manual transmission, you will need to get a shifter extension. Both coil spacers and a body lift can be used for combined lift...


SVT

 

[wizkid00104]

Alignment is only needed after a suspension or steering mod. Lift the body will only affect the steering column, not the actual geometry of the steering.

If you are a new owner, it could be a good idea to get it aligned anyway. Your tires won't wear funny and you'll know if your ball joints and tie rod ends are in good shape.

Before you do the body lift, check to see what shape the 6 cab mounts are in. There are two on the panel the radiator mounts too (these are know for rusting really bad), two under your floor pans, and two under the rear of the cab (brackets on these tend to rot). If these look rusty or dry rotted at all, be prepared for a challenging install. Take a look at LMC truck's catalog for the exploded view of the stock body mounts. Ford has two sleeves that go together around the rubber bushing and then the are pressed together making them very difficult to separate.

Take a look through my build thread to seem some of the body mount and undercarriage photos.

Welcome and good luck!