2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Rancho 2" Lift & Link Upgrade successful !

[DBazley]

Just a quick note to mention how satisfied I am with the Rancho 2" lift on my 97 4wd 2500. It includes 4 new upper & lower trailing link arms with urethane bushings and spring spacers.



The problem was with 150 k on the rig, the stock trailing link arm bushings were almost shot. An estimate of replacing them was very expensive, like $ 500 labor to remove & rebush the stock arms.



I reasoned that for approximately the same bucks, why not just get the Rancho lift kit with the link arms and pay no more for the upgrade.



Bingo !! Steering and handling response is much improved, vastly better than before. Truck is totally confident in the corners, without that "rubber noodle" front end wiggle I had become accustomed to. I think it's due to a combination benefit of the stronger boxed arm assembly & the less flex in the urethane bushings at the frame & axle mount areas.



Driving in the mountains has been hard on the stock bushings, and this should make it much safer for those challenging roads.



I can't wait to tow the heavy TT soon, it should offer a whole new level of confidence!



Also, had to get longer shocks so I ugraded from the Rancho 9000 to the 9000x, which is now 9 way adjustable. Nice upgrade, also. [I was already very satisfied with the earlier units]



I must admit, the extra 2" [I think it's a bit more than that, actually] of height is a nice thing, too. Better road visibility, and more reason to think it's actually a Pocket Peterbilt Oo.



One more thing: there's an Energy suspension sway bar bushing kit on the way, and then there's "Darin's Super Steeering Bracket" that ought to finish out the whole deal... ... ... .



Hope this helps someone... ... ... .



David

 

[homeka45]

Sounds nice. Get the truck a little higher but still maintain it's utility.

 

[CumminsPower98]

DBazley, did the urethane bushings make for a harsher ride? I have 2" spacers, which I really like but I need the longer control arms still to get my tires away from the fenders. I wonder if I can get the arms alone.



Mark

 

[CSloat]

I've been researching the same thing. I have a 97 4x4 extended cab longbed and would like to lift the front end a little. (by the way how do I list my truck info in the signature?)



The guy at DT products told me that the Rancho links are the same length as stock. He says that Rancho provides the new links for brand recognition and possibly a little more strength. DT sells some bars that are 1/2 longer than stock, but he says they won't work with the aluminum diff cover. (not an issue for me because I've seen what happens when an aluminum cover hits a rock..... steel for me!)



I understand that the 4" lifts from all of the manufacturers do use longer than stock links.

 

[DBazley]

Rancho Lift thoughts.....

Mark,



The urethane, to my surprise, has made the ride firmer, but not harsher.



I wasn't sure what to expect. The arms are 3/8 " longer, but many times more stiff, as they're a boxed aluminum design. That combined with the stiffer bushings has made the front end feel more solid, and much more precise than before. The "cummins" heavy front end used to feel kinda wobbly in the corners, now that's gone... ...



I live in the mountains of Southern California and drive demanding roads, so I can tell you this will be not only a performance preference, but a real safety increase.



I think you can get the links alone, cause when ORW in El Cajon, CA ordered it, he referred to "adding the link kit" or somesuch. I'm sure Rancho can inform you at www.gorancho.com, or one of their dealers.



I am still waiting for the urethane sway bar bushings & Darin's steering box bracket to finish up... ... they go on together so I'll report back on it here.



Meantime, keep the shiny side up and we'll chat with you later.....



David B.

 

[CumminsPower98]

Thanks, I will check into this when I have some extra money.