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Email: Info@Trailtec4x4.com
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Phone: 804-318-5001
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much lift do I need to clear 35's? 37's?
Like most questions the answer totally depends on the vehicle, how you'll use it and how much cutting or modifying you are OK with.
For example as a general guide a Jeep Wrangler JK 2.5" lift is rated for 33"-35" while 3.5" is rated at 35" and 4.5" is rated for 37". These can all change depending on your use, the fender style and how much weight you plan to carry.
For most full bodied trucks and SUVS like the Tacoma or 4Runner even getting a 33" tire in without rubbing is a struggle at times. We have our recommendations for what lift and tire sizes will work together and how much trimming may be required. In some cases our experience allows us to suggest simply stepping back to a narrower or slightly shorter tire to avoid major trimming.
Also wheel offset and tire style can play a major roll in whether your tires fit or rub the fenders and even frame components. Setting the tire away from the frame helps with frame clearance but may end up causing fender contact.
For example as a general guide a Jeep Wrangler JK 2.5" lift is rated for 33"-35" while 3.5" is rated at 35" and 4.5" is rated for 37". These can all change depending on your use, the fender style and how much weight you plan to carry.
For most full bodied trucks and SUVS like the Tacoma or 4Runner even getting a 33" tire in without rubbing is a struggle at times. We have our recommendations for what lift and tire sizes will work together and how much trimming may be required. In some cases our experience allows us to suggest simply stepping back to a narrower or slightly shorter tire to avoid major trimming.
Also wheel offset and tire style can play a major roll in whether your tires fit or rub the fenders and even frame components. Setting the tire away from the frame helps with frame clearance but may end up causing fender contact.
Do I need to change my gears if I install larger tires?
Not always. For small upgrades like going up to 32"-33" tires from a 30"-31" stock tire you may not notice too much of an issue. If you jump to 35" or larger you'll start to notice a big difference in power and driveability on and off road. At this point a gear change is definitely recommended.
Factory gear ratios play a big role in determining whether or not you'll need to swap gears. Highway mileage oriented gears like 3.21 will almost always need to be replaced with the addition of bigger tires.
Factory gear ratios play a big role in determining whether or not you'll need to swap gears. Highway mileage oriented gears like 3.21 will almost always need to be replaced with the addition of bigger tires.
Can I upgrade this lift kit later?
Depending on the lift kit style there are usually options that can be added later. It is usually much cheaper to buy the complete kit and only pay the labor one time to install it all but we know that's not always an option.
A good example would be a standard coil lift kit for a Jeep. These kits usually have the same springs and shocks as the complete lift kit but without the adjustable control arms & extended brake lines. These parts can easily be added down the road once your credit card has had time to cool off.
A good example would be a standard coil lift kit for a Jeep. These kits usually have the same springs and shocks as the complete lift kit but without the adjustable control arms & extended brake lines. These parts can easily be added down the road once your credit card has had time to cool off.
Do I need to correct my speedometer after changing tires or gears and how is this done?
Yes. For older style Jeeps it's as simple as changing to appropriate speedometer drive gear in the transfer case. For newer electronically controlled 4x4's you'll need a computer scanner/tuner to make the changes. Some vehicles may even require a trip back to the dealership to be adjusted. Without correction on an electronically controlled vehicle there can be issues with shifting, stability control and other functions due to incorrect speed readings. Some are completely undrivable until corrected. We offer several brands of tuners to correct most newer vehicle tire size, gear ratio and more and will gladly install these for you.
How long will my Truck be in the shop?
We do our best to schedule the your vehicle to be in the shop for the least amount of time possible. For most standard jobs like installing lift kits or lockers and gears the work can be completed in one to three days depending on the workflow of the shop and barring any unforeseen issues.
If your project is a larger scale custom job it could be weeks or even months to get completed.
We are a small shop and there are sometimes unforeseen delays from one vehicle to the next that may delay the completion of your vehicle but we will keep you informed of any delays along the way.
If your project is a larger scale custom job it could be weeks or even months to get completed.
We are a small shop and there are sometimes unforeseen delays from one vehicle to the next that may delay the completion of your vehicle but we will keep you informed of any delays along the way.
How often should I torque or tighten the lug nuts?
Anytime the wheels are removed or new ones are installed it's a good idea to check the torque after the first 50 miles. Lugs need to settle into their sockets and sometimes they can loosen up after the initial installation. When in doubt check the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual.
Should I check the bolts on my lift kit after installation?
It is recommended that you go over the bolts on your lift kit after the first 50-100 miles to make sure everything is tight. After that it is a good idea to check them over at least every year. More often if used for offroad use as things do tend to get damaged more easily. We include the first 50 mile check for free with all lift kit installations.
How do I get an estimate for my project?
Give us a call or email us to discuss your project. It's best to set up an appointment to bring your 4x4 by the shop. We are a small shop so by setting an appointment we'll be prepared to meet with you and have time dedicated to you and your project. This will also ensure that we have the best chance of catching any issues that are visible or modifications that need to be worked around before we quote a price or order parts.
Surprises do happen and estimates do need adjusted sometimes for unforeseen conditions but we try to catch as much as possible up front.
Surprises do happen and estimates do need adjusted sometimes for unforeseen conditions but we try to catch as much as possible up front.
