Lift Kit Pre-install

[the hammer]

My truck has 70K on it. So, if I am gonna put a lift kit on it, such as the 4" Rancho. what should i replace to ensure no problems from the git-go?

 

Tie rod ends?

 

Ball Joints?

 

Front Hubs?

 

Steering Gear?

 

Blinker Fluid?

 

I want to know any and every thing you guys know of as problem areas so that I know to check/replace them while I have it all disassembled during the lift install.

[ruggedlife]

whenever i pull a truck in that im about to put a lift kit on i check all control arm bushings, sway bar link bushings (assuming it doesnt come with new ones) pitman arm play, idler arm play, the TRE's inner and outer (essentially check all steering) after that i check wheel hubs followed by ball joints. poke around for anythin that looks bent cracked or just all in general wrong, and it never hurts to have a second pair of eyes. check rotors and pads. ujoints. all in all go over everything that way you know before hand what needs to be fixed. and if you havnt changed your blinker fluid and muffler bearings you shouldnt even have a license...

[lbkthree]

Personally I would check the hubs but those should be fine for another 50K or so. I would definatly change the ball joints and tie rod ends because that job is a bit more of an undertaking if you have to go back and do it. Also you are going to have to get an alignment anyways so might as well do it all at one time.

 

I would also start shooting all of the hardware with break-away or liquid wrench a few weeks before if you have the time. Don't forget to stock the cooler and take plenty of before, during, and after photos.