Suspension and Tire overhauling

[Red Rover]

Hi all,

I'm the proud owner of a 2WD 2003 Ford Ranger 3.0L XLT Extended Cab.

I currently have a 3" body lift and 31x10.50R15 AT tires in dire need of replacement. The front springs also appear to be sagging a bit.

I took some measurements of the suspension components to run by you guys. The truck was sitting in the driveway when I took them:

6" between rear axle and suspension stops
1.5" between right lower A-arm and suspension stop (2" stop)
1.25" between left lower A-arm and suspension stop
8.5" clearance right front tire
8" clearance left front tire
2.5" between side of tire and upper A-arm ball joint

Questions:
1. The space between the lower A-arms and the stops seems awfully low. What is normal?
2. Can you tell from these measurements whether I'll be able to fit 33" tires?

 

[rickf92592]

You should also observe clearances on the front as you cycle through the steering range and try to visualize clearance under compression (since its not really practical to remove the spring and cycle the suspension).
This is often where rubbing occurs.

 

[mp3deviant721]

I have a TIB truck and my i-beams aren't very far from the bumpstops either. 33 in tires will probably be pushing it. You might have to do some fender trimming in order to fit 33s. Read this while you are at it: http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/announcement.php?f=48