Lessons Learned After Lifting the Bronco 2" (What Works & Doesn't)

B MIller

Here's what I learned after the process of lifting the Bronco about 2". My original goal was to lift the bronco 3" with the ability to adjust the level and run HD springs. Reason for the lift is to not collect so much debris under the bronco in the desert. (fire prevention) Hopefully this will help some folks out.

What does not work:

• Bilstein 6100 shocks combine with Old Man Emu springs. The springs do not work with the Bronco top hats
• Bilstein 6100 shocks combine with Eibach Pro Truck HD springs. Same issue as above

What did work:

• The pre-built Eibach Pro Truck set up with HD springs. They bolt right on
• Here's the package link
• Zone UCA
• Dobinson's front diff drop
• Rough Country adjustable rear track bar
• Rough Country beefed up front tie rods
• Headlight Adjustment

In the end I didn't get the height I was looking for, but I did gain the ability to adjust height and level at home with a simple floor jack and provided wrench. The Bronco rides and drives leaps and bounds better than factory. I was worried the HD springs would make the ride too stiff, but ended up great for my set up. I'd say don't be afraid of the HD springs, they are wonderful.

Here's what I learned after lifting / leveling:

• This can take all day, allow plenty of time
• After each adjustment, drive around the block to let it settle. Otherwise you will be getting a false measurement. Changes about 1/4" after driving, then make your next adjustment
• Front's settle about 1/4" & rears settle very little
• Use lube on the adjustable shock threads
• Once dialed in, make very small adjustments (an adjustment on one side will throw off the other side)
• One full turn of adjustment is approx. 1/8"
• Don't just max them out, it make's the ride stiff (meet in the middle between height and ride)
• Write down which way to turn the collar to bring the height up or down on all 4 corners. This can get tricky and hard to remember

Final Settings & Measurements:

• Front ground to fender flare 40.5"
• Rear ground to fender flare 40.75" (allow some rake for occasional extra weight)
• Front adjustable thread measurement (from bottom) 1.2"
• Rear adjustable thread measurement (from bottom) .5"
• Don't use factory alignment settings (ChatGBT for improved set up)

In conclusion, I didn't get the full lift I was hoping for. But I'm very happy with the set up and the ability to make height adjustments at home. The HD springs were a good choice as they are not too stiff. The cost is pretty darn decent. The bronco rides and drives much better than factory. Hopefully this will help someone out in the future!

Deano Bronc

Thanks for the tips. I'm in the process of putting on the Eibachs with the Zone UCAs also. Rears are done and finishing up the fronts on Saturday. I didn't go with the HD springs since I'm pretty much stock as far as add-ons. I can see how you would need them.

Are you going to stay with the 35's or are you still looking to upgrade to 37s? At this point, I plan on staying on 35s.

Laura

Really helpful, thanks for sharing what worked and that the ride is great!