Difference between Leveling kit and lift kit??

[Gbpackrs15 [OP]]

I was looking at lift kits when I saw some links for some leveling kits. I know that leveling kits raise the front a few inches and the back a little less so that they match in height, but why is it so much cheaper compared to a lift kit...Isnt it basically the same thing. I saw a few leveling kits ranging from 100-300 bucks and I saw some lift kits for like 800 bucks...Can someone help me out?

[ajstoy]

most leveling kits only raise the front, by 1-1/2----2 1/2"..nothing to do with the rear. since the front sits lower, the leveling kit only brings it up, so the front and rear are the same heigth...you will see price variations due to manufacturers............a lift kit typically LIFTS not only the front, but the rear as well..those kits can include more parts, such as springs and shocks...

[Gbpackrs15 [OP]]

ajstoy previously said:

most leveling kits only raise the front, by 1-1/2----2 1/2"..nothing to do with the rear. since the front sits lower, the leveling kit only brings it up, so the front and rear are the same heigth...you will see price variations due to manufacturers............a lift kit typically LIFTS not only the front, but the rear as well..those kits can include more parts, such as springs and shocks...

I see, but there is a leveling kit on fjcruiseraccessory.com that raises the front 2.5inches and the back 1.5 inches to level it out but arent u getting the same thing as a reg lift kit for a cheaper price? Like there is Rough country 3inch lift for $329, when that leveling kit is like $175...here is the link
FJ Cruiser Suspension

[ironmind]

you're paying for performance, articulation and parts. Most "leveling kits" utilize your factory shocks and alot of them still use your factory springs and just add spacers. It'll give you ride height and wheel clearance, but not much in the way of performance or suspension/articulation upgrade. "lift kits" cover the full spectrum, but for the purpose of this explanation, the difference is you add higher end suspension, coil;overs or adjustable coilovers, longer shocks that won't bottom out and break, options to carry more weightm like winches or heavy bumpers......Hope this helps.

[AA2D]

A leveling kit is typically just spacers that are installed above the stock coilovers in the front. As AJstoy has said they just lift the front a little bit to level it with the back. They do nothing to change stock ride quality or offroad performance other than adding a little lift. Spacers are nothing more than plastic or aluminum cylinders that are made to fit. Not real complicated, not real expensive. I think you'll find plenty of guys that like them, use them, and are completely happy with them.
A more expensive lift will include new shocks and springs on all 4 corners. The springs and shocks are longer than stock, typically offer better spring loading rates and better dampening rates on the shocks than stock. They usually ride a bit stiffer than stock too. In my opinion, most offer great increases in performance both on and off road. By the way, you can spend a lot more than $800 on some of the lifts out there.
There are also hybrid kits that offer a combination of both spacers in the front and springs and shocks in the rear. There is a ton of information here on the forum. Keep reading and welcome to the forum.

[Gbpackrs15 [OP]]

THanks for the help guys. I think I am leaning towards the leveling kit because it is economically the better choice for me. If I were to buy a lift kit I would probably be wasting money but with the leveling kit, I would get exactly what I want..a more aggressive look, more clearance and a little better performance offroad- I only offroad lightly nothing too serious though...all for a cheaper price.

[AA2D]

Check out Toytec they can help you with whatever questions you may have and can point you to whatever lift you desire. Home - Toytec Lifts: Toyota Lift Kits: FJ Cruiser Lift Kits, Tacoma Lift Kits, Tundra Lift Kits, 4 Runner Lift Kits, Sequoia Lift Kits, Toyota Truck Lift Kits

Good luck, whatever you choose, you'll love it!

[ironmind]

I loved my toytec spacers. I only swapped them out because when I crunched the plastic bumper I upgraded to a heavy steel/winch combo and needed better suspension.

[Gbpackrs15 [OP]]

AA2D previously said:

Check out Toytec they can help you with whatever questions you may have and can point you to whatever lift you desire. Home - Toytec Lifts: Toyota Lift Kits: FJ Cruiser Lift Kits, Tacoma Lift Kits, Tundra Lift Kits, 4 Runner Lift Kits, Sequoia Lift Kits, Toyota Truck Lift Kits

Good luck, whatever you choose, you'll love it!

Thanks for the help. I think when I am ready to buy one I will give Toytec a call, they seem to have some nice products for a reasonable price. Thanks again

ironmind previously said:

I loved my toytec spacers. I only swapped them out because when I crunched the plastic bumper I upgraded to a heavy steel/winch combo and needed better suspension.

Thats good, I think I will get a leveling kit when I have the money. I would like to keep the factory ride. How do you like your gobi ladder?

[lgrt]

here is a short write-up on the lifts to help you out.
FJ Cruiser Lift Kit Primer