Lift options and questions

WacM · 06-23-2009, 11:58 AM

This is the beginning of many hours and days of research before I spend my $$$

I want to lift my 98 2d 4wd auto trans. 16v 1.6l JX but before I do, lots of questions. I'm lifting it for ground clearance more then anything. I want to lift it purely for function. I dont drive crazy or go 4 wheeling for fun. Just getting around easier to hunt.
I hunt an area of west Texas which is hilly and really rocky. There are roads there but they are rough. I dont want to bottom out alot so heres the questions.

Which lift kit(s) should I go with? I'll spend reasonable amounts of money if needed but of coarse not crazy amounts..around a grand tops..if necessary.

I own a set of 31, 10.5, 15 BFG mud terrains that I could put on there but is that to much tire for the small engine/tranny?

So far I'm leaning toward a Calmini 2in suspention lift and a LowRangeoffroad2in body lift.
Any opinions on those?
Will 4inches of lift be enough for 31's?
THANKS!!

vonroretz · 06-23-2009, 12:07 PM

yes 4 inces is good for 31s and if you buy that 2 in kit you could also add another inch useing a 1 inch spring spacer so its a 3 inch suspension, heres where to buy them

Suzuki Sidekick lift kits, Geo Tracker lift kit, Vitara, Grand Vitara, XL7

obradleyo · 06-23-2009, 04:40 PM

don't get the 2 inch lift get the 3 you will be more happy in the long run...

vonroretz · 06-23-2009, 06:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by obradleyo

don't get the 2 inch lift get the 3 you will be more happy in the long run...

yea it is true you would be more happy with the 3 inch

WacM · 06-24-2009, 09:34 PM

More questions.. So I've put in 3 or 4 hours research into the lifts. I noticed a few people not happy with large tires on their kick. Seems 30's would be the limit. Any bigger and you lose your good gas mileage and start having drive train issues. Maybe these are people who trash their kicks in the mud though.

Anyone have some good feedback. I was thinking of putting 31's on thier since I already own a set but if that 1 inch is to much for the little moter and tranny I'll do a 2 or 3inch lift and put 30's on there.

obradleyo I noticed you run 31's what do you have to say?

vonroretz · 06-24-2009, 09:57 PM

I my self run 30s and they have not done anything to the drivetrain or anything along those lines. I did notice a little power was lost but still about the same. 32 is the max for this little 4 banger in my opinion

obradleyo · 06-25-2009, 02:18 PM

I run 31's and did notice a power loss in power,but it drivesaround town and on the freeway fine. The only real prob. is when I climb big hills /mountains going snowboardng. That might be fixed now that i have my new cam though haven't got to test that part yet....

Rhinoman · 06-25-2009, 03:37 PM

The 3" Calmini kit is designed for more hardcore offroad use. You need a winch bumper and offset rims at the very least. The 2" is a much better ride for a more stock vehicle.

vonroretz · 06-25-2009, 04:22 PM

NOOO this is made for HARDCORE off road use

Zuki Nation - Sidekick products, Samurai products, suspension lift kits, plate bumpers, tube bumpers, body armour, custom engine parts.

look at the 4.5 alter ego lift its stupid high