Pros and Cons of Installing a 2 Inch Lift on Your 79 Series

For owners of the 79 Series, installing a lift kit can be an appealing way to enhance performance, tackle tougher terrains, and get a bit of extra clearance. A 79 Series 2 Inch Lift is a popular choice, balancing performance gains with reasonable modifications. Here, we’ll delve into the advantages and disadvantages of a 2-inch lift to help you make the best decision for your 4WD adventures.

Pros of Installing a 79 Series 2 Inch Lift

1. Improved Ground Clearance
   One of the most immediate benefits of a 79 Series 2 Inch Lift is increased ground clearance. This extra height can be invaluable when navigating over rough terrains like rocky paths, mud tracks, or sand dunes. A higher clearance minimizes the chance of scraping the undercarriage, protecting your vehicle and giving you confidence in more challenging environments.
2. Better Approach and Departure Angles
   A 2-inch lift helps improve your vehicle’s approach, break-over, and departure angles. These angles are critical for avoiding obstacles and can make a substantial difference in performance when dealing with steep inclines or declines. With a 79 Series 2 Inch Lift, you’ll experience reduced risk of bumper or chassis damage, allowing you to tackle off-road obstacles with more ease and precision.
3. Enhanced Towing Capacity
   With the right suspension components, lifting your 79 Series by 2 inches can improve towing capabilities. It helps accommodate larger, more durable tires and enhances the suspension’s robustness, providing greater stability when towing heavy loads. For those who use their 79 Series for work or weekend adventures that involve trailers or caravans, this is a major advantage.
4. Increased Tire Options
   With a 79 Series 2 Inch Lift, you have the option to fit larger tires, which can add further traction and control on rugged surfaces. Bigger tires combined with the lift can give the vehicle a more aggressive look and provide additional grip for off-road adventures, letting you maximize the potential of your 4WD.
5. Improved Off-Road Comfort
   Lifting your suspension can improve the comfort of your 79 Series when traveling over uneven surfaces. With a well-chosen 2-inch lift kit, the suspension can absorb bumps and shocks better than a factory setup, reducing the harshness of off-road driving and making the experience smoother for both driver and passengers.

Cons of Installing a 79 Series 2 Inch Lift

1. Higher Center of Gravity
   A downside of installing a 79 Series 2 Inch Lift is that it raises the vehicle’s center of gravity, which can impact stability. On sharp turns or steep hills, the vehicle might feel less stable, especially if not handled correctly. While the lift enhances off-road performance, it may require adjustments in driving style to avoid rollovers or control issues.
2. Increased Wear on Suspension and Drivetrain
   Adding a lift places extra stress on various parts of your 79 Series, including suspension components, axles, and driveshafts. The altered angles mean that components work harder than they would on a stock setup, which could potentially lead to increased wear and shorter lifespan of these parts if not properly maintained.
3. Potential Impact on Fuel Economy
   When you lift your 79 Series and install larger tires, it can negatively impact fuel economy. The increased weight and altered aerodynamics can reduce efficiency, especially on highways. While the difference may not be substantial, it’s worth considering if your 79 Series is also a daily driver, as fuel costs may increase over time.
4. Legal and Insurance Considerations
   Modifying your 79 Series with a 2-inch lift may require notifying your insurer and adhering to local regulations. In some regions, lifts of any kind might be restricted or subject to specific guidelines. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in fines or insurance issues if an accident occurs, so it’s essential to check local laws and insurance policies before committing to the lift.
5. Increased Maintenance Costs
   With a 79 Series 2 Inch Lift, you may experience an increase in maintenance requirements. The added height and strain on suspension components may lead to more frequent alignments and checks. Additionally, larger tires can accelerate wear on the brakes, requiring more upkeep to keep the vehicle running optimally.

Choosing the Right 2 Inch Lift Kit for Your 79 Series

If you’ve weighed the pros and cons and are ready to proceed with a 79 Series 2 Inch Lift, selecting the right lift kit is crucial. Look for kits designed specifically for the 79 Series, as they’ll be tailored to the vehicle’s specifications, helping you maintain handling and safety. Leading brands offer kits with components that are tested for durability, and investing in a reputable lift kit can make a big difference in both performance and longevity.

Conclusion
A 79 Series 2 Inch Lift is an excellent way to enhance your 4WD’s capabilities, making it more adept at handling tough terrain, offering improved clearance, and giving you more freedom in tire selection. However, as with any modification, it comes with trade-offs, including potential stability issues, increased wear on components, and added maintenance costs. By understanding these pros and cons, you can decide if a 2-inch lift is the right choice to meet your adventure and daily driving needs.