ifs

[bcsteel]

I was wondering if you guys could provide some insight into a few options i've been kicking around. I have a 89 extra cab that is stock with pizza cutter tires which i want to keep. my front end is in need of attention, ie ball joints, cv, idler arm etc...I would also like to add a small lift, around 2.5 inches or so. maybe a locker as well. i was wondering if it more worthwhile to just swap the ifs for a solid axel and be done with it. could you guys provide some insight into lift kits, lockers and solid axel swaps. i might add this truck will not really be used for rock crawling but some fairly intense wheeling though. I live in the north (terrace, bc) and would like a reliable setup as it is also a daily driver. thanks

Matt

 

[4rnr]

I see some serious searching in your future

If you dont find the info here check Yotatech. They have a a forum for SAS's.

 

[bcsteel]

i know searching just became my new best friend

 

[WristPin]

its about time some asked this.

your the first one, so honestly i dont even know what to do. i'd just keep driving my jeep. whats TEQ stand for?

 

[bcsteel]

thanks

 

[Hilux]

Without a doubt, SAS is the best. However, IMO "lower to lift" drop bracket lifts are without a doubt the worst.

You have (and don't know it) one of the best, if not the best IFS suspensions known to the auto industry. It is awesome like it is, or with moderate amounts of lift. And since it's a Toyota, there is a lot of aftermarket to support it.


Are you SURE you need a lift? How do you know it won't do just fine with the addition of traction?

Personally, I would start with adding a traction diff. That will save you from the spiral of lift > tire > re-gear and the might as well of > traction diffs.....which = $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

at least until you know the direction you want to go with building your truck.

Welcome bcsteel, < official newb welcome

 

[KLF]

You have (and don't know it) one of the best, if not the best IFS suspensions known to the auto industry. It is awesome like it is, or with moderate amounts of lift. And since it's a Toyota, there is a lot of aftermarket to support it.

It is so awesome in fact, that the rest of us don't even know it!

Personally, I would start with adding a traction diff. That will save you from the spiral of lift > tire > re-gear and the might as well of > traction diffs.....which = $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

Ya, good plan. Buy and install a locker in that 7.5" IFS front diff. Then torch it all off and throw it away when you figure out that you shoulda just done a SAS in the first place.

 

[bcsteel]

As I get more info on the matter I'm realizing that a small lift is really all i may need like 2 inches maybe even 1.5 just a little more clearance. The SAS system appeals more to me due to the fact that i'm consantly in the middle of nowhere mostly alone except with dog, no cell service for hundreds of miles and durability prevails in my mind. traction yes, that is a good idea!!!

 

[DanS HJ-45]

As I get more info on the matter I'm realizing that a small lift is really all i may need like 2 inches maybe even 1.5 just a little more clearance. The SAS system appeals more to me due to the fact that i'm consantly in the middle of nowhere mostly alone except with dog, no cell service for hundreds of miles and durability prevails in my mind. traction yes, that is a good idea!!!

You're going to be VERY hard pressed to come up with a SAS swap that keeps the lift down that much. I'm after the exact same thing, and so far the best I see is Downey's 3" kit. I'm 99% sure it's the one I'll be going with, for exactly that reason. The frame on the IFS trucks is not clearanced above the axle like the solid axle trucks is, which is why you need more lift just to get everything to fit. That or cut/box/reinforce your frame to make some room for the axle to move up in it.

Dan

 

[KLF]

Ya, I think about 3-4" of lift is about minimum for a SAS. It's the cross-over steering that gets in the way, especially the draglink. I have about 3" of lift, and I had to limit the uptravel on the pass. side to keep the draglink from hitting the framerail.