The Allure and Advantages of Lifting Your Classic F150
The desire to lift a truck stems from a blend of aesthetic appreciation and a desire for improved functionality. Lifting a 1999 Ford F150 2WD instantly transforms its visual profile. The increased ride height provides a more commanding presence on the road, creating a bold and customized look that sets your truck apart from the crowd. For many owners, this is a primary motivator.
Beyond the striking aesthetics, lifting provides tangible advantages. One crucial benefit is enhanced ground clearance. Increasing the distance between the undercarriage of your F150 and the terrain below is beneficial. This allows you to navigate uneven surfaces, such as gravel roads, with greater confidence, minimizing the risk of damage to vital components like the exhaust system, oil pan, and transmission. While this truck isn’t designed for hardcore off-roading, this added clearance is helpful in many scenarios.
Another significant advantage is the ability to fit larger tires. A lift kit creates the necessary space within the wheel wells to accommodate tires with a greater diameter. This not only improves the truck’s overall appearance, but also enhances its off-road capability by providing increased traction and grip. Larger tires can also improve ride comfort by providing more cushioning over bumps and imperfections in the road. Choosing the right tire size is essential to maximize the benefits of your lift, we will discuss this later in the article.
The potential for improved ride quality is also present, though it is contingent on the type of lift kit and the quality of the components. Certain lift kits, especially those incorporating upgraded shocks and springs, can result in a smoother and more controlled ride. The improvement in ride quality adds to the overall enjoyment of driving your lifted F150.
Let’s also acknowledge that the 1999 Ford F150 2WD is not primarily designed for extreme off-roading. Its two-wheel drive configuration inherently limits its ability to tackle challenging terrain. However, even with 2WD, a lift kit can provide added capability. It allows for improved ground clearance and the use of larger tires, which can significantly increase your ability to handle unpaved roads, trails, and other less demanding off-road scenarios.
Exploring the Options: Understanding Different Lift Kit Types
The market offers various lift kits for the 1999 Ford F150 2WD, each with its unique design and characteristics. Understanding these options is crucial to making an informed decision that suits your needs and budget.
Leveling Kits
Leveling kits represent a popular and cost-effective solution. These kits primarily aim to level the front of the truck with the rear. Often, the front end sits slightly lower than the rear from the factory. A leveling kit will typically raise the front end by an inch or two, creating a more balanced stance. They are usually comprised of strut spacers or coil spring spacers and are relatively simple to install. The main benefits are affordability and straightforward installation, making it a good option for beginners. A leveling kit provides only a modest increase in ground clearance. While they can often accommodate slightly larger tires, the size increase is limited, and you need to check for wheel well clearance.
Suspension Lift Kits
Suspension lift kits represent a more comprehensive and robust approach. These kits involve replacing some or all of the factory suspension components, including the springs, shocks, control arms, and sometimes the steering knuckles. This comprehensive overhaul results in a substantial lift, significantly increasing ground clearance. Suspension lifts allow for the installation of much larger tires, transforming the look and capability of your F150. Because these kits replace factory components, the ride quality can be substantially improved. The primary downside is that they are more complex to install and usually command a higher price.
Body Lift Kits
Body lift kits offer another path to raising your truck. These kits lift the body of the truck away from the frame. Body lifts achieve this through spacers installed between the body and the frame. Body lift kits are typically more budget-friendly compared to suspension lifts. The installation process, in general, is also easier than that of a suspension lift. The core benefit is the cost-effectiveness of adding lift. Unlike a suspension lift, a body lift does not increase ground clearance under the axles. Ground clearance will only improve under the body. Another aspect to consider is the potential for a gap to appear between the body and the frame, which can impact aesthetics, and some body lift kits do require other minor modifications to things like steering.
Making the Right Choice: Critical Considerations for Your Lift
Selecting the appropriate lift kit demands a careful evaluation of several critical factors to guarantee satisfaction and the long-term performance of your lifted 1999 Ford F150 2WD.
Your budget will obviously be a major consideration. Lift kits range in price from a couple hundred dollars for a simple leveling kit to over a thousand dollars or more for a comprehensive suspension lift. Moreover, remember to factor in installation costs if you’re not planning to perform the work yourself. Professional installation can significantly add to the overall expense. Take a look at your budget and make a plan!
Your intended use of the truck should dictate the kit you purchase. Consider how you plan to use your F150. Will it primarily be used for street driving, occasional off-road adventures, or a mix of both? If your off-roading needs are modest, a leveling kit or a body lift might suffice. For more serious off-roading or for wanting to run much larger tires, a suspension lift is the appropriate choice. Also consider the size of the tires you’d ultimately like to run.
The installation process is an essential element in your decision. Carefully assess your mechanical aptitude and the tools available to you. Leveling and body lift kits are generally considered to be simpler to install, making them suitable for DIY projects. Suspension lifts, with their more extensive component replacement, are generally more challenging and may require professional expertise. Factor in the time commitment for the installation as well. A larger, more comprehensive lift can take a whole weekend or longer.
Brand reputation and product reviews should influence your final choice. Take the time to research and assess the track record of lift kit manufacturers. Look for reputable brands known for producing high-quality, reliable, and well-engineered products. Read reviews from other 1999 Ford F150 owners who have used specific lift kits. These reviews can provide invaluable insights into the product’s performance, ease of installation, and overall satisfaction levels.
Compatibility is another crucial point. Ensure that any lift kit you select is specifically designed for a 1999 Ford F150 2WD. Check the kit’s compatibility information to ensure it will work with your specific truck model and trim level. Also, read the kit’s instructions carefully to identify any modifications or additional components required for installation.
A General Overview: A Glimpse into the Installation Process
*Important Note: The following provides a general overview. *Always* follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions included with your chosen lift kit.*
Before beginning any installation, always prioritize safety. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and hands. Secure your truck on jack stands to ensure its stability. The ground must be level.
With the truck safely secured, you can begin the installation. First, lift the truck, remove the wheels, and support the frame with jack stands. Then, remove the existing suspension components according to the lift kit’s instructions. This may involve removing the shocks, springs, and control arms. Install the new lift kit components, carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually involves replacing the existing components with the new ones, using the provided hardware. Reinstall the wheels and lower the truck. Torque all bolts to the specifications provided in the kit’s instructions.
Beyond the Lift: Post-Installation Essentials
After completing the installation of your lift kit, several post-installation steps are critical to ensure your truck’s safety and performance.
An alignment is absolutely necessary after any lift kit installation. Lifting changes the suspension geometry, which can affect the truck’s handling, tire wear, and overall performance. A professional alignment is crucial to ensure your truck drives straight and handles properly.
Choosing the right tire size for your lifted 1999 Ford F150 is essential for optimal performance and aesthetics. The lift kit’s specifications and the size of your wheel wells will determine the maximum tire size you can accommodate. Before purchasing tires, check for potential tire rubbing. Make sure that your tires do not rub the wheel wells during normal driving conditions.
Regular inspection and maintenance are necessary to keep your lifted F150 in top shape. Regularly inspect the suspension components for any signs of wear, damage, or loose bolts. Periodically check the torque of all bolts, especially those related to the suspension.
Conclusion: Embarking on Your Truck’s Transformation
Lifting your 1999 Ford F150 2WD is a significant step in customizing your truck, and enhancing its capabilities. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and mechanical skill level, you can choose the right lift kit to achieve your desired results. The increased ground clearance, the potential for fitting larger tires, and the enhanced aesthetics will provide many years of enjoyment. Before beginning, research your options, and choose the right kit for your goals. Take pride in your Ford F150!
Resources
For further information, here are some links to resources for your 1999 Ford F150. Please remember to always check compatibility and verify information.
*(Add links to reputable lift kit manufacturers and retailers here. Examples include Rough Country, Pro Comp, BDS, Amazon, and 4WheelParts)*
*(Add links to popular Ford F150 forums and online communities)*
