Choices for lift after some rubbing

[shanester]

I'm running BFG KO'2's 275/70/18's and after I installed my bora 1.25" spacers, I'm getting some rubbing in the front (no rub in the rears I don't think) which hasn't bothered me much.

Today I noticed they're hitting the top of fenders too after hitting a big pot hole. Luckily there was no damage done. This can't be good for the truck so I'm using it as an excuse to finally get a lift and with Black Friday deals still going on - it seems like a good time.

I have a few questions:

1. Will a 2.5" lift solve the fender rub?
2. I don't want to do a full on suspension overhaul since this is the family car. I will most likely be sticking to OEM shocks for the next couple of years until I can get my wife a van and take my baby back (the 100, not one of our children). So if I'm not upgrading the shocks, what are my options for lifting the truck? I'm not sure exactly what I need.
3. If you know of any websites with black friday deals still going on, please pass the info along.

 

[Hayes]

1. No. A suspension lift does not change the arc or range of motion for the wheels, but it could reduce the frequency of the rubbing on small bumps and potholes by increasing the static clearance.

2. No shocks required for a lift. All you need to do to lift the front is adjust the front torsion bars. Search the forum for how-to. The rear could be lifted for cheap using spacers, but new coils are the better way.

 

[shanester]

Thanks Hayes!

What exactly do I need to do a proper lift on the rear like you mentioned? If I were to use the OME 2860 Rear Coil Springs, would that be all that I need to get the 2.5" lift?

 

[JayM]

I run a similar offset and same tire as you and have the same issue. It does contact the the top of the fender right on the retainer. A lift will keep it from rubbing on the typical daily driving stuff but, you will still hit the same place under full compression. The contact happens about .5 inches from the lower control arm hitting the bump stops.

Two solutions would be a lift with a taller bump stop. Staying stock height you can remove the fender liner retainer on top, bend the metal fender tab up and use a heat gun to reshape the fender liner giving you the clearance you need. You could always add the lift and clearance the fender liner too. With the stock rake on the cruiser you could also crank on the stock front torsion bars and give your self some lift it really depends on your goals.

 

[JayM]

Just a quick update on solving the rub with no real modification. You can locate the retainer button at the 12 o'clock position on the outer edge of your front wheel well. You can use your fingers to flatten the fender tab it is connected to. Push it as flat as you can against the inner fender leaving everything attached. This should give you the clearance you need. I did this while out for groceries and tried it on the super speed bumps on full soft suspension and did not hear the rub I normally would. Let me know if this makes sense. I could upload some pictures if my explanation is off.