4" lift Experiences

I am considering a 4" Hellcreek suspension lift for my 71 Jeepster. I have a question for all of you that have used these or any other 4" lift springs. What issues have you encountered as far as driveshaft problems, front caster issues, steering problems, etc? I am planning to run 31-10.50 tires on 15x8 rims.

 

I am running the Hellcreek 4" kit with 31's(meaure at touch over 32")on 15x10's. I am not 100% sure if you can run the stock 2-piece driveshaft. I fabricated my own 1-piece shaft and extended the length, the rear shaft is stock and is plenty long. I have saginaw steering and there are no issues, I can't imagine the Ross would be any different. The springs are quite stiff until broken in and flexed alot, now with some miles on mine on and off road the front flexes really good, and the rears are so-so, but I have an earlier kit where my springs are a tad too short I know HC has corrected this problem.

 

Shockingly they are Dunlop Radial Mud Rovers...I was quite shocked myself...typically on a 10" rim they would be smaller.

 

I'm going to check my tape...I have been around and owned enough tires to know they typically are shorter...funny thing is my 33x12.5 Boggers measure smaller than these...I have a feeling that they were mis-marked...if that can even happen with tires.

Anyways back on topic...I would look into Alcan and Deaver for custom made spring packs..they may be a little more, but could be worth it in the long run..AFAIK Hellcreek is kinda new to the Commando crowd so their track record has yet to be proven.

 

I have a 69 with the 4 inch kit from HC, I have a set of 34 TSL under mine. I love the look of it, however the only issue I have had is the front shaft so I have a nice tall 2 wheel drive jeep until I can correct the issue. I have the orginal Ross stering also set up on mine I did not have to change anything when I did this. I guess the best comparison I can say about the ride of it is imagine riding on center blocks so i guess you can tell my springs have not been broken in yet.

I have some picture of the jeep on here already it is a half cab maroon with a black top if you would like to see them let me know and I will try to post them again for you.

 

So If I get a 4" kit from HC will I need to replace the driveshaft? Will anything else need ot be replaced? Any other suggetstions on other mods that might need to be done to correct any steering, balance, etc. issues associated with the 4" kit?

 

This might spark some debate but you may want to look into a spring over option. It depends on your use though. SOA will give you the best flex but it take more money and work to get it to ride well on the road as far as handling goes. 4" SUA is pretty much maxed out. I would definitely look into look into some shims to correct the axle angle. Its not critical but youll have better handling. Also I would look into a drop pitman arm too if the angle is too bad. Im not sure what type of steering your using. Also your going to need some longer shocks. I would recommend Rancho 9000s all the way around as they are adjustable and will need to be turned all the way down for a decent ride. Dont do 5000 as they are way too stiff. You can get away with 5000s in the rear if on a budget since the springs are so long, but never in the front. I would also look into getting some bigger tires. Some tire manufactures are making a 33x10.50x15 which might work better depending on your application. I personally like 32.11.50x15 but it requires the right offset rim and some trimming in the rear but the stance is a good look. Also I would make sure the springs are the later wide springs as opposed to the narrow earlier springs.