Lift time! (1 Viewer)

[1911]

Does anyone know if the Icon stage 2 lift is something that can be done DIY with basic tools? I've done suspension installs before but only on solid axels.

Yes, but there are a few tools and tricks to make it way easier. A 14mm ratcheting box-end wrench for the top nuts on the front coilovers. Disconnect the lower knuckle to get the coilovers in, or alternately use a big pry bar to lever the lower A-arm. But disconnecting the lower knuckle is way easier IMO. Use Loctite and a torque wrench when you re-attach it. A strap wrench makes it way easier to get the rear shocks off, then jack-up each end of the rear axle by itself to drop and install the opposite-side coil spring. There are some good write-ups on the whole procedure in the blue forum.

 

[BMThiker]

315/75/16 BFG KM2 tires with Icon stage 1 lift here. I'm still running OME medium springs on the rear as of now, but have the newer Icon Overland 3" lift springs on their way. I did the body mt chop and hammered the pinch weld in the front wheel wells flat. It rubs at full lock and under compression, but it's not debilitating. I wheel pretty hard on rocks (crawl until I need to bump it) but I'm not running the Baja or catching major air.

It's all doable on your own, but if you know anyone that's done a lift before and can get their assistance, it will go much easier.

 

[Smaddox]

It's the upper control arms that I'm not looking forward too. Never done anything with them before and they look to be a pain in the ass.

 

[BMThiker]

Getting the long hinge bolt out is the only tricky part. You will have to remove the battery on the DS, but the PS is open enough to pull it. If you still have the flimsy mud guards directly on either side of the shock tower in place, it helps to remove those black clips and temporarily remove the black plastic flaps.

 

[BMThiker]

Found these instructions from Total Chaos on installing UCA's

 

[1911]

Getting the long hinge bolt out is the only tricky part. You will have to remove the battery on the DS, but the PS is open enough to pull it. If you still have the flimsy mud guards directly on either side of the shock tower in place, it helps to remove those black clips and temporarily remove the black plastic flaps.

Rick nailed it. Not that hard; even easier with a helper.

 

[Smaddox]

That's awesome guys thanks a ton!

 

[Mtbcoach]

Chiming in late, but...you've beenn given sage advise. No need for a 6" FJC lift, 35's are doable with some planning and I also highly advise to budget a re-gear if you plan on going over 33's.

Do it right, do it once, save money in the long run and run ICON's, you won't be disappointed...

 

[Smaddox]

Well I decided to go with the toytec boss suspension. No UCA and I know it's not ICON. But I've heard it's still good. Also put on some 285/70/17 duratracs. Little rubbing since the toytec isn't on yet. Hopefully have pics of it all soon

 

[Smaddox]

Here it is with just the tires.

 

[Smaddox]

Lift all finished and install was relatively smooth. Went with the ToyTec Boss suspension. Seems great so far. On short drive back felt a little soft, but it was unloaded. Front coils felt excellent! Will be taking it off-road this weekend.

 

[Smaddox]

Question for y'all. Running 33s with the Toytech un-modified (2.5 up front) I rub just slightly, but only in reverse when turning. If I adjust the coils up to 3 inches will it resolve the issue? Or do I need to look at wheel spacers or coil spacers?

 

[BMThiker]

Has more to do with the width of the tire than your lift. I have no experience with wheel spacers. Mine rubs in similar conditions and I just deal with it. It doesn't rub enough to hurt anything at the speeds I'm typically that far compressed and turned.

 

[SammyT96LX450]

See If you can have the shop move your caster slightly. That should fix the rub...if you have after market ucas you can go pretty high.

 

[winnie]

I agree, a good alignment tech may be able to deal with the rub issue via caster adjustment ...

 

[Smaddox]

Thanks all. I will try to raise the toytec coilovers to 3 inches and adjust the alignment. We'll see if that corrects it. I'll let y'all know.

 

[LockedCollector]

Hey Smaddox,

Nice thread. I have a '11 Quicksand and also wanting to lift. Do you have more pics?

 

[Smaddox]

Only thing new since the prior pix is the sliders. Next I plan on a new front an rear bumper. Rear bumper on the FJ hangs way to low. If you do much off road you're going to hit it.

 

[Smaddox]

Anyone know a good way to relocate the washer fluid reservoir? Really don't want to pay $300 for a relocation kit.

 

[SammyT96LX450]

179 from exp1
http://www.expeditiononestore.com/FJC-Washer-Fluid-Kit-2-gallon-Plastic-FJC-WFK-PL.htm
Do it your self option.
http://www.fjcruiserforums.com/foru...-5.html#/forumsite/20496/topics/162019?page=5