DIY KZTE Shackles and Spacers

[morganharris]

Hey guys

I just bought and installed Spacers and Shackles from 4x4direct and installed on my KZTE. My Father In Law says he can make the same kind of parts, just bigger for more lift. The ones i have are about 25mm lift and he says he can custom make new ones that will give me from 50mm to 75mm lift.

I know nothing about these kind of things, do you think we should give it a try?

[Boland4x4]

If you go with any more lift you will need a diff drop kit to avoid CV's binding, longer shocks because of the potentially bigger wheel travel and quick-disconnects for your sway bar, since it will be limiting your longer wheel travel. If your only purpose is for the bakkie to sit higher, rather opt for a body lift.

[LouisZ]

Remember, the ratio will be if you for example want 30mm lift the shackle must be made 60mm longer. Check prop and sideshaft angles, usually a 50-60mm lift is still within spec.

[morganharris]

Boland4x4, you mention a "Body Lift", what is this exactly? Can I look at it online somewhere? Price?

Sorry for all the questions, I dont know much about these things

[Thabogrobler]

One day I'm going to make a reality series called: "DIY gone wrong!"

Hopefully your DIY schackles won't feature!

[Mud Dog]

Morgan, forgive me for saying this, but it sounds as if you are still relatively inexperienced IRO the off-road scene. I would suggest that you don't do anything more to your vehicle at this point, but get more active with your local forum / club members and join them on excursions. First get to know your vehicle better and improve on your off-road driving skills .... (we all had to start somewhere). Then assess what it is that you want from your vehicle before you do mods that are not in line with your requirements. In the meantime do a search on "extended shackles" / "body lift" and "spacers" .... read up on the info in those topics .... it will give you a pretty good idea what each is about.

At least then you will be in a position to make a more informed decision.

Good luck and happy off-roading!

[Donkey]

I tend to agree with oom Andy, he's not oom for nothing , I did my first trial with a stock standard truck, fitted with racing slicks, not only learnt a lot about the truck and its limits but also mine. The mods I did/do is what I need in terms of my requirements. I want a truck that'll go overlanding comfortably and still manage to play.

[ROBERT]

I agree with Tumelo, I had my truck for a full year, and drove quite a few trails before I started modifying.
Rather invest in good quality shocks IE old man emu or EFS and good leaves, I have mikem leaves in the back with longer shackes giving a 30mm lift, and you would not believe the fdifference in wheel travel between the standard leaves and mikem leaves. the old man emu shocks also make a big difference