Off-Roading 101: The 4 Essential Tips for a Toyota 4Runner Lift Kit
Have you ever run into a patch of trail that was too gnarly for your rig to handle?
If the answer is yes, then perhaps it's time to consider customizing your vehicle with a 4Runner lift kit. Lift kits are one of the most practical upgrades you can make to your off-road vehicle. They literally elevate your Toyota so that it can tackle any challenges the road throws its way.
Read on to discover all the benefits of Toyota lift kits, including key considerations in finding the one for you.
Benefits of a 4Runner Lift Kit
Along with making your 4Runner look like an off-road warrior, there are several practical benefits to adding a lift kit.
Increased Clearance
4Runner lift kits increase your ground clearance. This allows you to glide over obstacles that once had you shifting into reverse. You also won't have to worry about bottoming out in places where the trail is a bit rutted or washed out.
Visibility and Safety
Adding a lift kit to your 4Runner gives you, as the driver, a better vantage point. This is useful for both busy city traffic as well as spotting potential hazards on the back roads.
Terrain
If you like to explore the great outdoors, a lift kit will expand the horizons of possibility. The terrain you once thought impossible will be easy to navigate. Whether you're planning to ford rivers to climb mountains, your lifted 4Runner will give you the traction and support you need.
Ride
Adding a lift kit gives you the freedom to add larger tires and allows you to balance out your load. Both lead to a more comfortable ride, especially when the going gets tough.
Which Lift Kit Is Right for You
There are four key points to consider when deciding on the perfect lift kit for your 4Runner. These will vary from person to person and depend upon preferences as well as how you intend to use your rig.
1. Budget
Budget is the most important factor to consider when choosing a lift kit for your 4Runner. A simple spacer or body lift kit will probably cost you between $125 to $150. This works just fine if you're motivation is appearance-related vs functionality.
With 4Runner lift kits, the saying "you get what you pay for," holds. If you want to be tackling rugged terrain, dune jumping, and rock crawling, you will have to be willing to spend a bit more. Higher-end lift kits, like the 4Runner OEM Lift Kit , will provide your rig with more versatility and durability.
2. Tire Size
Before you rush out and buy the highest lift kit you can find, you need to take a moment to consider your tire size. The bigger the tires the higher the lift you will need.
4Runners have a bit of flexibility when it comes to selecting tires. However, if you want anything larger than a 33" tire, you might need to do some additional bodywork. Think about whether you are willing to trim your fenders, bumpers, and body mounts and just how much.
3. Driving Style
How you plan to use your 4Runner will dictate which type of lift kit you should buy. Are you planning to stick to paved streets and maintained dirt roads? Or, do you have an epic long-distance overland trip in the works?
Giving your vehicle that extra lift will help you navigate the rugged ruts and road hazards on those advanced trails.
You should also consider if you plan to use your 4Runner for towing or supporting heavy off-roading equipment such as 4Runner roof racks and rooftop tents. In these cases, the lower your center of gravity the better. The weight you add will play into the lift's spring rate; heavier loads require heavier springs.
4. Type of Lift
There are several different types of 4Runner lift kits you can choose from. These include spacers, coilovers, body lifts, drop bracket lifts, upgraded shocks, and more. Before purchase, make sure the lift is compatible with your current suspension system.
Next, consider what you want out of your lifts. As mentioned before, a body lift will make your vehicle visually higher without any of the additional benefits of a lift whereas coilovers allow you to adjust the spring and ride height as needed.
These lift kits allow you the freedom to pick and choose how much lift you want, which gives you adventure-specific customization.
Other Considerations
We have already covered the key considerations when it comes to selecting your perfect 4Runner lift kit. However, there are a couple of additional factors that could impact your decision.
Installation
If you are a DYI kind of person, you should make sure you understand how to install your 4Runner lift kit before ordering. Most kits come ready to install and with easy-to-follow instructions. There are also plenty of video tutorials online.
Those who want the benefit of a lift kit but aren't savvy in vehicle mechanics should factor professional installation costs into their budget.
Garage Space
A lift inevitably adds height to your vehicle, which could make garage clearance a bit of an issue. Before you settle on a lift height, you might want to consider your parking and storage options.
This often isn't a deal-breaker consideration, but it is important to consider. The last thing you want is to be spending thousands of dollars fixing the garage door you knocked down with your lifted 4Runner.
Get You 4Runner Lift Kit
Making upgrades to your off-road vehicle is always a labor of love. You want to make sure that any investment you make enhances your off-road experience. Adding a 4Runner lift kit to your rig will allow you to tackle the road ahead with confidence and ease.
Remember to factor in budget, tire size, driving style, and lift type when making your decision. Then all that's left is to hop in your 4Runner and let the good times roll.
If you still have questions about which lift kit is right for you, we encourage you to contact us.