Off Roading Hi-lift sizing

[Clinton]

What size Hi-lift are you folks using? I have a DOR ft. bumper, D25 coils, and 255/85 tires. My rear bumper plans are in the works, but the bottom edge of anything I buy / fabricate won't be unusually high. I may go with 315/75 tires one day, but kind of doubt it. I can't really see needing that 60" rascal, so I thought I'd ask. I'm guessing they make the 60" unit for mostly industrial / farm use or big-time lifts on rigs with big-time wheel travel.



Let me know... Thanks

 

[jrobinson2]

I've run my 4' hi lift off the top changing a rear tire on my 76 1/2 ton, no lift, 235 75 15 tires. I doubt I could get a rear tire off the ground on my Cummins. The wheel droop on these trucks is usually substantial.

Jared

 

[mschoenheider]

Get the 60". Even if you don't need the height for changing tires, the extra length will com in handy if you use it for a winch.

 

[TXCTD]

Go with the 60". I had a 48" in my Jeep and borrowed a guys 60" and never wanted to give it back. Now I carry a 60" in my truck and wouldn't have it any other way. Sometimes bigger is better.

 

[DSteele]

I use a 60 inch hi-lift in my jeep and 3500 4X4. One other thing to carry is a length of chain, with it you can tie the springs to the frame so that wheel droop is not a factor.

 

[Oil Ape]

If you want to try something scarry not to mention dangerous, jack your hi-lift as high as it is mechanically able with a few thousand pounds balancing on the top. These jacks are not designed to be used at the upper end. As such, they are only considered to be safe at lifting just over half of their actual length. The additional bar length above the climbing unit is to give you a little extra leverage and stability. Now, yes, most of us that have used them have pushed the envelope a little, but be careful.



The 60" gives you a little more control and a few inches more "safe"(relatively speaking) travel. Do yourself a favorl, buy the tall one and if you really don't like it, cut it down or trade it with someone that wants it.

 

[rdrose]

try using a chain or stap to hold the diff off the ground as you jack the truck. then you won't have to jack the truck so high.