2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission All skyjacker 4.5" lift owners

[jqsyndo]

Hi, I recently installed a skyjacker 4. 5" lift on mine 2002 3500, but noticed that the front tires are wearing on the outer edges. As I looked toward the front of my truck, I noticed that the the camber are indeed positive. What do some TDR members with skyjacker 4. 5"or similiar lift do to correct this problem? I know that it is required to take it to an alignment shop but I remembered reading that the ball joint cannot be adjusted, but need to get an adjustable ball joint. Is this necessary? or An alignment shop can correct the problem without the need for the adjustable ball joint. Thanks.

 

[TomGolden]

Well, I have a 2 1/2" Skyjacker full lift kit, took my truck into a local alignment shop right after installing the lift to make sure everything was aligned properly. I also had a DT track bar installed along with the Skyjacker lift.



Anyway, the alignment tech did mention that the outer tread edge wearing is a normal function of any vehicle that has a solid front axle, as which ever alignment "spec" that accounts for that specific wear trend can't be adjusted on a solid front axle vehicle.



This shop also does big rig alignments, and was recommended by a fellow local TDR member. I don't know if this guy is correct or not, as I know absolutely nothing about alignment technology or terminology.



I had about 35K miles on the OEM Michelin M/S tires when I had the lift installed and the alignment done, that was 11 months and about 25K miles ago, and all tires are wearing very evenly. I rotate my tires at every oil and/or filter change - every 5K miles.



Tom

 

[RO'neal]

The lift shouldn't make any difference at all with the alignment on a straight axle because there are no adjustments to be made as stated above. I bolted mine on and didn't have to do anything to it as far as alignment and my tires are wearing perfect. I just keep them rotated and keep an eye on the air pressure.



You can buy adjustable ball joints but if you're having a problem with alignment I don't see how it has anything to do with the lift.



Ryan

 

[dlange]

I to have had no problems with the lift. Other than the steering But that is a whole nother subject.

 

[jqsyndo]

Thanks to all that reply,

 

[John L]

I have over 50K miles with my 4-1/2" lift and haven't noticed any abnormal tire wear. Only problem I've had with the lift was the trackbar drop bracket becoming loose.



John

 

[BigBadDodge]

No problems here either, only what John L said Skyjacker drop bracket was coming lose no mater what I did, so I scraped that POS and installed the DT bar and haven't had to touch the lift or the track bar for the past three years.



BBD