Table of Contents
Installing a long travel suspension system can greatly enhance your vehicle’s off-road capabilities. This guide will provide a step-by-step process to help you successfully install a long travel suspension system.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Long travel suspension kit
- Jack and jack stands
- Wrench set
- Screwdriver set
- Torque wrench
- Impact gun (optional)
- Grease
- Safety glasses
- Work gloves
Preparation Steps
Before starting the installation, it’s essential to prepare your workspace and gather all necessary tools and materials. Follow these preparation steps:
- Park your vehicle on a flat, stable surface.
- Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
- Wear safety glasses and gloves for protection.
Step 1: Remove the Existing Suspension
To install the long travel suspension, you must first remove the existing suspension components. Follow these steps:
- Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the front wheels using a wrench.
- Disconnect the sway bar links and shock absorbers from the lower control arms.
- Remove the lower control arms by unbolting them from the frame.
- Disconnect the upper control arms and remove them as well.
Step 2: Install the Long Travel Suspension Components
Now that the old suspension is removed, you can install the new long travel suspension components. Follow these steps:
- Begin with the upper control arms. Align them with the mounting points on the frame and secure them with bolts.
- Next, install the lower control arms. Ensure they are properly aligned and bolt them to the frame.
- Attach the shock absorbers to the upper and lower control arms.
- Connect the sway bar links to the lower control arms.
Step 3: Adjust the Suspension Settings
After the installation of the components, it’s time to adjust the suspension settings for optimal performance:
- Check the ride height and adjust if necessary by modifying the shock settings.
- Ensure that all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Inspect the suspension for any clearance issues.
Step 4: Reinstall the Wheels
Once the suspension components are installed and adjusted, you can reinstall the wheels:
- Place the wheels back onto the hubs and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack.
- Once on the ground, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the proper specifications.
Step 5: Test Drive and Final Inspection
After completing the installation, it’s crucial to test drive the vehicle to ensure everything is functioning correctly:
- Take the vehicle for a short test drive, preferably on a bumpy road.
- Listen for any unusual noises and check for vibrations.
- After the test drive, perform a final inspection of the suspension components and wheel alignment.
Conclusion
Installing a long travel suspension system can significantly improve your vehicle’s off-road performance. By following this step-by-step guide, you can complete the installation safely and effectively. Always remember to consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions and safety information.