By James J. Weber
photographer: James J. Weber, Courtesy of the Manufacturers
As new vehicles roll out for the '07-'08 model year, new suspension systems will follow - especially if they are for some of the newer production vehicles like Ford's Super Duty series, Toyota's FJ Cruiser, and the new Jeep JK Wrangler. If you're driving a late-model truck or SUV, you're in luck. The aftermarket has stepped up with a host of suspension systems to upgrade the latest OEM offerings. Enjoy!
Superlift '07 Chevrolet Silverado 6-Inch Suspension System
Superlift's newest suspension kit elevates the '07 Chevrolet Silverado 6 inches while managing to keep the factory upper control arms in their OE location; the factory coil springs install onto new Superlift coilover shock bodies.
Heavy-duty crossmembers and brackets made from 1/4-inch-thick plate steel relocate the lower control arms downward 5 inches to help maintain the truck's factory geometry. New cast-ductile-iron knuckles span the increased vertical distance between the upper and lower arms.
On 4WD versions, the front differential is lowered to reduce the CV axle angle and premature axle-component wear. Additionally, the front differential's structural integrity is not compromised since no cutting is required to install the kit. The factory front driveshaft is retained.
A new differential skidplate connects and strengthens the front/rear crossmembers while protecting the 4WD front axle's centersection. Kicker braces with urethane-bushed eyes span from the rear crossmember back to the frame to increase rigidity. Available options for raising the rear of the truck consist of 5-inch lifting blocks or Superide replacement springs.
For more information, contact: Superlift Suspension Systems, (888) 299-4692, www.superlift.com.
Skyjacker '08 Ford Super Duty 4- and 6-Inch Suspension Systems
Skyjacker's 4- and 6-inch performance lift systems for the all-new '08 Ford Super Duty enhance the off-road capabilities of the rig while maintaining exceptional ride quality and highway stability. Both 4- and 6-inch kits have been developed from the same basic bracketry.
Each system includes front Softride coils that deliver a smooth ride with excellent off-road durability. Specifically designed for ease of installation, the rear radius-arm drop bracket lowers the radius arm to correct the caster angle for proper front-end alignment. A heavy-duty track-bar relocation bracket captures the front crossmember on both sides in this high-stress area. The front bumpstops are relocated via drop brackets. Front brake lines are replaced with DOT-certified, extended-length, braided stainless steel brake lines.
Replacement sway-bar end links reposition the sway bar to maintain OE characteristics. A heavy-duty relocation bracket and replacement steering stabilizer are included. Each system includes rear lift blocks for an OE-like ride. Customers can choose Skyjacker's Hydro H7000, Nitro N8000, or Big Gas M9000 shocks. Each system is fully upgradeable to an optional front four-link conversion that replaces the radius arm with adjustable control arms for increased performance.
For more information, contact: Skyjacker Suspensions, (318) 388-0816, www.skyjacker.com.
Fabtech '08
F-250/350 Super Duty 6-, 8-, and 10-inch Radius-Arm Suspension SystemsFabtech's '08 Ford F-250/350 6-, 8-, and 10-inch radius-arm suspension systems feature fully tubular replacement radius arms with adjustable alignment cams for OEM alignment settings. Front spring lift options include your choice of either replacement coil springs or the new Dirt Logic 4.0 coilover-shock conversion kit.Completing the system is a track-bar relocation bracket, a pitman arm, sway-bar drops, and durable hardware. Rear lift options include a block and U-bolt kit, full replacement leaf springs, or a complete long-travel system.
For more information, contact: Fabtech Performance Suspensions, (877) 432-2832, www.fabtechmotorsports.com.
King 2.5 and 2.0 Bumpstops
King's 2.0- and 2.5-inch-diameter bumpstops give precise control during hard hits and big landings. Available in either a standard 4-inch-stroke model or a 2-inch-stroke version, each bumpstop is fabricated from seamless steel tubing and 6061-T6 billet aluminum machined to perfection.
Each bumpstop is completely rebuildable and revalvable for whatever type of terrain you drive through. Available options for the units are custom mounting sleeves, anodizing, and custom-tailored stroke lengths.
For more information, contact: King Shock Technology, (714) 530-8701, www.kingshocks.com.