Custom Body Lift and Removal Kits

      XX        New longer bolt
     ----       Factory Washer, either tabbed or round
~===========~   Floor of the cab or bed
    +----+
    |    |      Body Lift Block
    |    |      
    +----+    
   --------     Factory top washer (bonded to body mount bushing, not separate)
   +------+
   |      |     Large factory rubber bushing (Body or cab only)
   +------+ 
  ==========    Bracket off of the frame   
    +----+    
    |    |      Small factory rubber bushing (Body or cab only)
     \--/    
   --------     Small factory washer
      XX        New lock nut

There is a metal bushing that goes inside the poly bushings, it gets sandwiched between the two washers outside the poly bushings and keeps them from getting compressed too much. When you tighten down the bolts, you bottom out this internal bushing. Note that not all vehicles will have all the parts below, for example, washers may or may not be present, bushings may be two-piece (as pictured below) or one-piece. You can think of the body mount bushing like an Oreo-type cookie. The top and bottom washers are like the cookie wafers and the rubber part is like the creme filling. Without the sleeve in between the washers, the filling (i.e. rubber bushing) would squeeze out when you tightened the body mount bolt. Since the body lift blocks are not compressible, they do not need a sleeve or top/bottom washers to work. Rather they just get clamped in between the top washer of the body mount bushing and the floor of the cab/body. The clamping force of the body mount holds the block in place.

The following image is an excellent rendering of a typical body mount, courtesy of John Evaskovich:

One concern with body lift blocks is possible electrolytic corrosion due to dissimilar metals touching. This can be a problem with aluminum blocks and the steel of the body. If you wish, you could apply a heavy paint or spray-on undercoating to the top of the blocks. Anotehr option would be to cut out some plastic washers from an old plastic milk jug and use that to separate the aluminum and steel if desired to prevent possible electrolytic action. The big advantage of the UHMW polyethylene body lift blocks is that they eliminate this possible problem, as polyethylene is inert and self-lubricating, so you won't even have problems with the paint wearing off the steel and causing rust as is common with extruded fiberglass blocks.

Body Lift Kits:

What exactly is in a body lift kit?

• Something to put between the frame and the body (lift blocks)
• Longer-than-stock bolts to hold the body to the frame (mounting hardware)
• Various brackets to relocate items that connect between the frame and body, such as:
  • Bumpers, front and rear
  • Steering Shaft
  • Radiator
  • Shift Linkage

So, which vehicles do these kits fit?

What is listed below is information on all the vehicles we have sufficient information to construct a body lift kit or components for. If what you need is not listed below that means we do not have sufficient information required to design and build that component or vehicle kit. If you would like us to design any not-listed components or kits, see this section of the web page for the required information. Almost every kit listed below has been designed from information supplied by customers just like you.

All our body lift kits are proudly designed and manufactured in the USA

• Toyota:
  • 1979-1995 2WD/4WD Pickup/Hilux/Trekker and T-100 (click here for pricing and options)
  • 1984-current 2WD/4WD 4Runner/Hilux Surf (click here for pricing and options)
  • 1995.5-current 2WD/4WD Tacoma and Tundra (click here for pricing and options)
  • Landcruiser (click here for models, pricing and options):
    • Including: FJ-40, 45, FJ-55, {F,B,H}J-6{0,1,2}, FJ-70, FJ-80 (and Lexus LX-450) and, FJ Cruiser
• Mitsubishi
  • Montero/Pajero, Dodge Raider, MityMax and D50 pickups (Gen-I and Gen-II vehicles, click here for vehicle-specific kit pricing):
• Kia
  • Sportage (1993-2005 1st generation models): and Sorento (2003-2009 models):
• Isuzu:
  • Amigo - Tony Vang has a nice 2" lifted '99 Amigo
    • Uses 8 - 2.5" OD blocks, cost: 1" - $48.00, 2" - $64.00, 3" - $80.00
    • This is a block-only kit at this time, for a more complete lift kit, provide the information requested here...
  • Rodeo - 1/2" and 1" lift kits
    • 2WD uses 10 - 2" OD blocks (cost $50.00)
    • 4WD uses 10 - 2" OD and 2 2.5" OD blocks (cost $62.00)
      • For the 1" / 4WD lift, 4 hardware options:
        • Supply your own
        • 6 longer metric bolts for the rear (cost $25.00)
        • 6 longer metric rear and 6 longer SAE bolts for the front (cost $40.00)
        • 12 longer metric bolts for all body mounts (cost $50.00)
      • 1/2" lift can re-use stock hardware
    • Taller lift blocks (only) (1.5", 2" and 3") are available for special order
      • Add $15.00 per extra inch (or fraction) of height for 2WD kits and $19.00 for 4WD kits
    • Should also fit Honda Passport models
  • Trooper:
    • Uses 4-2.5" and 8-3" dia. lift blocks typically
      • Blocks: up to 1": $92.00, up to 2": $124.00
      • Hardware, mix of 6 metric (M10) and 6 SAE (3/8") bolts $65.00, all 12 bolts in metric (M10) $80.00
  • Note that these are not complete kits, for other hardware/brackets, see this section of the web page.
• Nissan
  • Frontier pickup
    • Uses 4-6 2" OD blocks (bed) and 6-8 2.5" OD blocks (cab) (total of 12-14 typically) and 1-2 pair of bed spacers
      • 2" blocks drilled for 10mm bolt and 2.5" blocks drilled for 12mm bolt
      • 2" OD blocks/ea.: $5.00/1", $6.50/2", $8.00/3"
      • 2.5" OD blocks/ea.: $7.00/1", $9.00/2", $11.00/3"
      • Metric hardware now available, $65.00 for the 8 - 12mm and 4 - 10mm on the double cab models
      • Bed spacers/pr.: $10.00/1", $12.00/2", $14.00/3"
      • For a typical double cab model, typical kit of ultimate blocks (4-2"OD, 8-2.5"OD) + hardware + 2 pr. bed spcrs, cost:
        • 1" - US$161.00 + applicable sales tax and shipping
        • 2" - US$187.00 + applicable sales tax and shipping
        • Note that there is some variation in the bolt lengths for the Nissan Frontier pickup models.
          • So to ensure best hardware kit fit, you may want to send us the measurements of the bolt lengths and diameters for your particular vehicle so we can verify problem bolt lengths for the body lift kit.
          • Typically all cab bolts are 12mm dia. and all the same length, 8 in total
            • If you have 2 or more longer bolts, then add $25.00 to the hardware kit price for those longer bolts.
          • Bed bolts are 10mm in dia. and all the same length, 6 in total.
          • If it's easier, we can send the default hardware and then if needed work with you to exchange needed bolts afterwards.
    • Note that these are not complete kits, for other hardware/brackets, see this section of the web page.
• Note that the applications below are body lift blocks only
  • For other hardware/brackets, see this section of the web page and let us know what you'll be needing...
  • Don't order the lift blocks and then complain that you didn't get bolts or other brackets!
• IH Scout
  • 80 and 800 series, 9 - 2" OD blocks, 7/16" center hole
    • 1" - $45.00, 2" - 58.50, 3" - $72.00
• Other vehicles - Information on custom applications
  • Jeep CJ, TJ, XJ (SWB) use 10 - 2" OD blocks,
    • $50.00 - up to 1", $65.00 - up to 2", $80.00 up to 3"
  • Range Rover uses 10 - 2" OD blocks w/ 10mm holes,
    • $50.00 - up to 1", $65.00 - up to 2", $80.00 up to 3"
  • early Ford Bronco uses 8 - 2.5" OD blocks,
    • $48.00 - up to 1", $64.00 - up to 2", $80.00 - up to 3"
  • Chevy S10 Blazer uses 10 - 2.5" OD blocks w/ 12mm holes:
    • $60.00 - up to 1", $80.00 - up to 2", $100.00 - up to 3"

Below are some examples about what kind of options are available:

Aluminum Lift Blocks	UHMW-PE Lift Blocks
Toyota 4Runner Kit	Toyota Pickup Kit
Toyota {F,B,H}J-6{0,1,2} Landcruiser	Kia Sportage
Pickup/Tacoma Bed Spacers	Steering Shaft Extension

• Body lift blocks
  • 1/2" - 3" lift w/ or w/o hardware:
    • A lathe is used to drill the bolt hole in the center of the block
      • A close fit is an important design feature as it keeps the body from shifting around on the frame, taller lift blocks have slightly larger holes drilled to ease installation of the longer bolts.
      • Cast blocks often have oversized, irregularly shaped holes due to the nature of the mfg. process
      • On UHMW blocks taller than 1", you may notice a slight deviation of the hole from the center of the block due to variations in the block diameter in the extrusion process. Since the blocks are slightly oversized in most applications, the slight offset from center has no affect on the function of the block.
    • The one face of the block is than machined square to the axis of the center hole
    • Then the opposite face is machined square and the edges are slightly chamfered to reduce stress concentrations

    

  • Lift block options:
    • 2" dia. billet Aluminum Blocks
      • Cost is $9.00/ea for the 1" tall blocks; taller blocks not available.
    • UHMW Poly Ethylene blocks
      • Available in 2", 2.5", 3" 3.5" nominal diameter blocks.
      • UHMW is a dense plastic, that will eliminate possible corrosion and squeaking problems that could potentially happen with a metallic block.
      • UHMW blocks are available in two sizes:
        • Standard body lift:
          • All 2" dia. blocks
        • Ultimate body lift:
          • Combination of 2" dia. for front and bed mounts, and 2.5" dia. for remaining cab mounts:
          • The Ultimate blocks are the same diameter as the larger cab/body mounts so offer the ultimate in strength, both in the block itself as well as spreading the load of the body over the sheet metal contact point.
        • Custom height lift blocks are available as well:
          • Any size lift from 1/4" to 3", no-cost consultation on your custom applications
            • Specify center bolt hole size for drilling
            • A 1/2 " body lift is an interesting proposition, as many stock mounting bolts have approx. 1/2" of excess length, so this height lift, while not a lot, can be done without the added expense of replacing the stock bolts. If interested in this option, 4Crawler Offroad can make 1/2" blocks, drilled for the 10mm stock bolts
      • A new product addition is a 1-3/8" body lift block for the Kia Sportage. This block has a number of important features:
        • It is 3.5" in diameter with an integral "cup" to contain the rubber body mount bushing as well as a tapered end that fits into the "cup" on the underside of the body.
        • It has a 19mm center hole to accommodate the factory body mounts bolts and is the tallest lift possible with the existing hardware, a total of 8 are required.
  • Longer bolts and nylon lock nuts:
    • The stock bolts will not work beyond about 1/2" of lift on most vehicles
    • Several hardware options are available:
      • Standard, heavy duty, stainless steel and metric.
      • Standard bolts have approx. the same strength as the factory hardware and will fit the stock body washers without modification
      • Heavy duty bolts are about 25% stronger than stock and will fit into the stock mounting holes and body washers with some slight modifications.
      • Stainless steel hardware is rust resistant.
      • Metric hardware is just that, same diameter and grade as stock, although thread pitch and head size may differ from stock.
      • The pickup bed bolts (or nuts) include tabs (like stock, where applicable) for ease of installation.
    • Hardware is SAE Grade 5 or better, which combines good tensile as well as shear strength.
      • Hardware is either zinc or cadmium plated for corrosion resistance
    • You may also supply your own mounting hardware
      • If you want to use custom size bolts, blocks can be drilled to your specifications or even supplied un-drilled
  • Radiator drop brackets (if needed):
    • The radiator (and fan shroud) are attached to the body, the engine (and fan) to the frame
      • Fits standard 20cm Toyota radiator bolt spacing, drilled for 1" and 2" drop
    • You may be able to simply remove the lower radiator shroud extension
      • With a 1" lift, you will have to modify the radiator flange a bit to install the bracket
        • Please refer to the installation instructions for details
      • An electric radiator fan eliminates this problem as the fan is attached to the radiator and not the engine
      • Tacoma trucks do not require a bracket and it is possible to simply use existing or new mounting holes
  • Stock front bumper drop bracket and hardware (if needed):
    • Will raise stock bumper to original height as bumper will no longer fit with body lift
      • On 4Runners, the rear bumper is attached to the underside of the body
  • Stock rear bumper relocation hardware (Tacoma pickups)
    • Hardware kit allows existing rear bumper brackets to be modified to match body lifts from 1"-3" and re-use the stock bumper bracket bolts.
  • A bracket for raising Toyota A/T transfer case lever for 2" - 3" lifts is now available:
    • Bracket includes mounting hardware.
  • A steering shaft extension for Toyota rack and pinion as well as recirculating ball steering box steering:
    • Extension bolts on to the stock rag joint and extends the shaft 1" or more
  • Bed Spacers
    • For certain vehicles, there are places where the bed or body is supported by contact with the frame. While the body lift blocks and longer bolts will properly support the bed or body, for added load capacity, a separate bed spacer can be bolted or welded to the frame to provide a contact point.
  • If you want to "roll your own", click here for a VRML model of a body lift block
    • A proper body lift block should be uncompressible, there should be minimal play between the bolt and block to prevent it from racking
    • If interested in "rolling your own", I'd be more than happy to supply you with a suitable quantity of material:
      • 2" UHMW rod at $2.00/inch, 2.5" at $3.00/inch and $1.00 per cut on either item

One thing about many of the commercially available body lift kits is that they are an all-in-one package, one size fits all:

• If you want just the blocks, you have to buy the whole kit and throw away the parts you don't need.
• If you want shorter blocks, you cut the taller blocks in two and throw away the parts you don't need.
  • Much of the hardware supplied is specific to the amount of lift in the blocks, so it can't be re-used.
  • Bolts only have thread on the lower inch or so of the bolt, so if its shortened more than this, its no longer a bolt, its just a round rod with a hex head on top.

So, 4Crawler Offroad has chosen to supply a body lift in an "ala carte" form, e.g. you want blocks, you order the blocks; you want bolts, you order the bolts, etc. Here is a list of some common combinations of parts that are typically ordered.

Poly Urethane Body Mount Bushings:

While not required, it is a good idea to check the condition of the stock rubber body mount bushings and if cracked or worn out, change them to polyurethane (PU). PU will withstand the added strain of the taller body lift, and it actually transmits less noise and vibration from the frame to the body than rubber.

If planning to install a body lift kit on your vehicle, it is a good idea to inspect your original body mount bushings to see what condition then are in. Look for any deep cracking or tears in the rubber bushings. And with the one piece bushings, look for separation of the rubber from the surrounding steel bracket or places where the bushings have collapsed and are allowing the body to rest directly on the frame bracket (usually you'll hear squeaking or rattling noises if this happens). If you have any doubt about the condition of the original rubber body mount bushings, there is no better time than when installing a body lift to swap out those bushings, since you can easily swap out the bushings prior to putting in the body lift blocks.

Speaking of squeaking, there's a common misconception that poly urethane body mount bushings are prone to squeaking. While it is true that poly urethane suspension bushings are prone to squeaking, realize the squeaking happens when there's something moving against the poly bushing. Imagine a spring shackle or control arm bushing as the suspension cycles up and down. The bushing will be rotating against whatever is touching it and that's where the squeaking comes from. Common solutions are to apply lubricant to the poly or use a black, graphite loaded urethane material. On the other hand, a poly body mount bushing is a different application. The body sits on the bushing and the bushing captures the body mount bracket and all that is held together with a bolt. For squeaks to happen, something has to move across the poly bushing. If your body is sliding around atop those bushings, something is seriously wrong, i.e. body mount bolts are loose or missing. If that is the case, fix the problem and the squeaks should go away. Long story short, no need for additional lubrication with poly body mount bushigs.

Especially on the newer model full bodied vehicles, the trend is the the mfg. to install taller, softer rubber bushings for a quieter ride on the road. However, in off-road use, those large squishy factory bushings can allow excessive body movement relative to the frame. If you have aftermarket bumpers, rock sliders or other trail protection (like a roll cage) install, the body may move enough to make contact with that trail armor and cause noise. Also, those soft rubber bushings are more prone to tearing when subjected to the extreme stresses of off-road driving. In these cases, the firmer polyurethane bushings are a good upgrade.

What makes the bushing kits offered by 4Crawler Offroad different than those from other companies?

1. We offer kits for many vehicles for which there are no aftermarket kits available.
2. We offer any combination of bushing components, if you need 1 or 2 bushings or need to add or subtract bushings from an existing kit, no problem.
3. We hand inspect and test-assemble each bushing kit in most cases. Amazing as it seems, we find that at least 25% of the boxes of supposedly complete bushing kits we open are missing parts. So we try and make sure each kit is complete and order extra parts from the bushing mfg. to make up any shortages before the bushing kit gets to you.
4. We custom drill all the bushing washers to fit the size hardware you'll be using with the bushings. Most aftermarket bushing kits will not work with stock size hardware, strange as it seems. So let us know what size/diameter hardware you plan to use with the bushings, and we'll do our best to accommodate that. There may be an additional charge to drill out these components, or you are welcome to perform that operation yourself.

Note that PU body mount bushings will likely look different than the OEM rubber bushings. There are several reasons for this, mostly to do with the different materials and molding operations. Rubber tends to be "squishier" than PU. As such, bushings are often designed to compress to a greater degree when made of rubber. So they will appear taller when uncompressed. Also, OEM rubber bushings are often molded with washers, sleeves and other metal parts bonded together inside in complex clamshell molds. This is how rubber has to be molded, it's put in a mold and then put under heat and pressure to allow the vulcanization process to occur. PU, on the other hand, is poured into an open mold as a liquid then heated in an oven to cure the polymer. PU molds have to allow for the cured part to be removed and thus they can't have the intricate ribbing and details like the rubber bushings. Case in point, look at the tire on your truck and compare that to a PU skateboard wheel. Also, with PU, the exact mechanical properties, like durometer, can be easily controlled by the polymer ingredients. With a rubber bushing, you have less control over the material properties and instead rely on the bushing shape to produce the desired bushing properties. That's why the rubber bushings often have complex ribbing and narrower/thicker sections to allow for the desired compression characteristics.

Polyurethane body mount kits are offered in the following configurations (and can be used as-is or with a body lift ):

• Toyota
  • Pickup:
    • ('79-'88) - $90.00 (6 cab mounts, 6 - 2 piece bushings)
      • Available in black bushing material
    • ('89-'95) - $110.00 (6 cab mounts, 2 - 2 piece and 4 - 1 piece bushings)
      • Pickups have no bushings between the bed and the frame.
      • Available in black only.
    • All years
      • 8 poly urethane body isolators to replace the OEM rubber bed isolator pads
      • Helpful if removing a body lift or if you are restoring a stock height vehicle
      • Not needed with out UHMW cab/bed lift blocks as they serve the same purpose
  • 4Runner:
    • ('84-'89) - $120.00 (10 body mounts, all 2 piece bushings)
      • Available in black only
    • ('90-'95) - $180.00 (10 body mounts, 6 - 2 piece and 4 - 1 piece bushings)
      • Available in black only.
    • ('96-only)
      • 9th and 10th body mount brackets+bushings+bolts:
        • Weld-on: $75.00
        • Bolt-on: $95.00
      • 8 bushing kit $180.00
      • Available in black only.
    • ('96-'99) - $190 (10 body mounts, 8 - 2 piece, and 2 - 1 piece bushings)
      • Available in black only.
    • ('00-'02) - $240 (10 body mounts, 6 - 2 piece, and 4 - 1 piece bushings
      • Available in black or red by special order.
    • 2000 models may have bushings like the '96-'99 or like the '01-'02, so order accordingly
  • Landcruiser
    • FJ-40
      • (1/'64 - 12/'78) - $160.00 - (12 - 2"x2" and 1 - 2"x4" body mounts)
      • Available in black only.
    • FJ-45
      • $160.00 - (12 - 2"x2" and 1 - 2"x4" body mount and 2 2.5" dia. mounts)
      • Available in black only.
    • FJ-55
      • (1968 - 7/'80) - $180.00 - (10 - 2-piece bushings, sleeves and washers w/ up to 6 - 1/4" spacers if needed)
      • Available in black only.
    • {F,B,H}J-6{0,1,2} (see notes below)
      • (all years) - $200.00 - (12 body mounts, includes custom mix of sizes to fit the body mount cups, as needed, see #3 below)
      • Available in black only
    • {F,B}J-70 (see notes below)
      • (all years) - $150.00 - (8 body mounts, includes custom mix of sizes to fit the body mount cups, as needed, see #3 below)
      • Available in black only
    • BJ-73 (see notes below)
      • (all years) - $160.00 - (10 body mounts, includes custom mix of sizes to fit the body mount cups, as needed, see #3 below)
      • Available in black only
    • FJ-80: (see notes below)
      • (all years) - $160.00 - 10 body mounts, with 2 - small, 6 - medium and 2 - large diameter typical, see note 3 below.
  • Tacoma:
    • 1995.5 - 2000 (all models) - $110.00 - (6 cab mounts, 2 - 2 piece and 4 - 1 piece bushings)
      • Available in black only.
    • 2001 - 2004 (std. and xtra cab models) - $145.00 - (6 cab mounts, 2 - 2 piece and 4 - 1 piece bushings; 2 tall and 2 short)
      • Available in black only.
    • 2001- 2004 (double cab models) - $180..00 - (6 cab mounts, 2 - 2 piece and 4 tall - 1 piece bushings)
      • Tacoma pickups have no bushings between the bed and the frame
      • Available in black only.
    • 2005-2012 2WD and 4WD models - $200.00 (6 cab mounts, 2 - 2 piece and 4 tall - 1 piece bushings)
      • Tacoma pickups have no bushings between the bed and the frame
      • Available in black only.
    • All years
      • 6 poly urethane body isolators to replace the OEM rubber bed isolator pads
      • Helpful if removing a body lift or if you are restoring a stock height vehicle
      • Not needed with out UHMW cab/bed lift blocks as they serve the same purpose
• Mitsubishi
  • Montero/Pajero/(Dodge Raider):
    • LWB: $185.00 (12 body mounts)
    • SWB: $155.00 (10 body mounts) or $125.00 (8 body mounts)
    • On some Generation 2 Monteros, the front pair of body mounts is a 1 piece unit and can't be replaced.
      • If so, leave these body mounts as-is and replace the remaining ones.
      • You can order a kit with 2 fewer mounts if this applies or return the unused bushings.
    • The bushing kit may not fit the 1994 Pajero Exceed model which has more oval shaped mount mount bushings.
  • D50/MityMax Pickup:
    • Cab-only: ($95.00) (6 cab mounts)

Note: Bushing kit prices typically discounted with body lift kit purchase.

1. Stock rubber vs. Poly Urethane	2. Pickup('79-'88) 4Runner('84-'89) Bushings Current bushing set is available in black only	3. FJ/BJ/HJ-60/61/62 Body Mounts Current bushing set is all black	4. Montero LWB Body Mounts
5. Pickup '89-'95 & Tacoma '95.5-'00 Mounts	6. '90-'95 4Runner Mounts Current bushing set is all black,	7. '96-'99 4Runner Mounts Current bushing set is all black	8. '00-'02 4Runner Mounts
image soon	image soon	.	.
'01-'04 Tacoma Extra cab mounts	'01-'04 Tacoma Double cab mounts	Your body mounts here...	Your body mounts here...

Pictured above:

1. A set of stock rubber body mount bushings (black) and replacement poly urethane bushings, approx. 92A durometer, (red)
   1. Large bushing: 62mm OD x 16mm ID x 21mm H x 24mm frame bracket hole
   2. Small bushing: 45mm OD x 16mm ID x 19mm H x 24mm frame bracket hole
   3. Lower bushing (all the same size): 42mm OD x 16mm ID x 23mm H
   4. Steel sleeve: 16mm OD x 12.5mm ID x 42mm long
   5. Note, the above dimensions are measured un-compressed. In the compressed state, the outer diameters will increase about 10-12% and the height will reduce slightly. For example:
      1. The 62mm OD bushing will increase to 68-70mm, the 45mm OD, etc.
      2. The height will decrease (for example the 21mm height will drop to about 19mm) as the bushings are compressed. The small bushings do not compress much at all as they have less weight on them.
      3. Heights also do not include the separate top washer (factory washers are bonded to the upper bushing half), and that washer is approx. 3mm (1/8") thick and the diameter of the washer matches the diameter of the bushing.
2. A typical polyurethane pickup (1st/2nd gen) / 4Runner (1st gen) cab/body mount kit.
   1. To the left is a 1st/2nd gen. pickup kit, with a total of 6 cab mount bushings
   2. With all 10, you have a 1st gen. 4Runner kit.
      1. Also shown at the top are the new top washers which are drilled to accept either stock or or the larger body lift mounting bolts.
      2. The stock body mounts have the washers bonded to the rubber, so they can't be easily re-used.
3. A typical Landcruiser {F,B,H}J-6{0,1,2} body mount kit has 12 body mount bushings with custom sized bushings as needed as well as FJ-80 models with 10 bushings:
   1. Generally your vehicle may have a mix of bushing sizes (and yes we have tried to find some system to this but just when we think we have it figured out, along will come a vehicle that is different):
      1. 2 - 4 of the small sized bushings
      2. 0 - 6 medium sized (~55mm dia.) bushings
      3. And the remainder of 12 large bushings on your {F,B,H}J-6{0,1,/2} depending on year:
         1. Please advise what you need so that proper size bushings can be supplied.
         2. The main issue is that the large size bushings will typically not fit into the medium sized bushing cups on the frame brackets as they are approx. 62mm in dia. and the cups are 55mm in diameter.
         3. Your vehicle may have bushings with 65mm - 70mm diameters and those will be replaced with the kit's large diameter bushings.
   2. Pictured above (3) you can see a kit with 4 - smaller and 8 larger bushings (total of 12), your mix of sizes will vary to match your vehicle.
      1. Large bushing: 62mm OD x 16mm ID x 21mm H x 24mm frame bracket hole
      2. Medium bushing: 55mm OD x 16mm ID x 21mm H x 24mm frame bracket hole
      3. Small bushing: 45mm OD x 16mm ID x 19mm H x 24mm frame bracket hole
      4. Lower bushing (all the same size): 42mm OD x 16mm ID x 23mm H
      5. Steel sleeve: 16mm OD x 12.5mm ID x 42mm long
   3. Note, the above dimensions are measured un-compressed. In the compressed state, the outer diameters will increase (for example the 62mm OD will increase to 68-70mm) and the height will decrease (for example the 21mm height will drop to about 19mm) as the bushings are compressed.
      1. Heights also do not include the separate top washer (factory washers are bonded to the upper bushing half), and that washer is approx. 3mm (1/8") thick and the diameter of the washer matches the diameter of the bushing.
   4. Note that the medium (55mm) bushings are cut down on a lathe to reduce the diameter to fit the 55mm dia. frame bracket cut. As such, their exterior surface will be a rougher finish than the small and large dia, bushings.
      1. It will not affect their operation or durability, but if you want to have a similar appearance to the non-machined bushings, you could spray the bushing circumference with a black vinyl paint. That will dry to a shiny, smooth black finish and be stretchy enough to accommodate the bushing flexing.
      2. The other option is to remove any 55mm cups on the frame brackets (with a grinder or cut-off saw) and then use large instead of medium sized bushings.
4. A Mitsubishi Montero has has 8 to 12 body mounts
   1. Upper bushing: 60mm OD x 17mm ID x 23mm H x 29mm frame bracket hole
   2. Lower bushing: 51mm OD x 17mm ID x 33mm H
   3. Steel sleeve (not included): 17mm OD x 12.5mm ID (est) x 50mm long (est)
5. '89-'95 Toyota Pickup and '95.5-'00 Toyota Tacoma 1-piece body mount bushings
6. 2nd Gen 4Runner ('90-'95) body mount bushing kit, a hybrid kit of 6 1-piece bushings and 4 2-piece bushings.
   1. Note the arrangement of the bushing parts, shown front-rear (left-right) and the thin (1/4") and thick (1/2") spacers, or with a body lift, the rear most lift blocks will be 1/4" and 1/2" taller than the rest of the blocks, respectively.
   2. Bushings and blocks are labeled front to rear with the capital letters: Front, A-pillar, B-pillar, C-pillar, Rear
   3. With stock hardware, you can re-use the existing bolts, but if purchased with a body lift kit, then the 4 rear most bolts (shown in the photo but not included in the bushing kit), will need to be 1" shorter than with the OEM mounts.
   4. If you want to replace the body mount bolts along with the bushings, you can order our 0" (i.e. stock height) hardware kit, see the 4Runner kit page for details.
7. 3rd Gen 4Runner (1996-1999) body mount bushing kit, 2 1-piece bushings and 8 2-piece bushings (picture shows combined 1" body lift and poly bushing kit)
   1. With no body lift, you'll have an assortment of thin spacers to make up height differences between the stock and replacement bushings and with a body lift, the lift blocks will have differing heights, ranging from 7/16" to 7/8" taller than the ordered kit. Again, this is to make up for the difference in height between the stock body mount bushings and the new poly bushings. When installed, the combination of the shorter poly bushing and the taller block will be the same height as the stock bushing and shorter block.
   2. Bushings and blocks are labeled front to rear with the capital letters: Front, A-pillar, B-pillar, C-pillar, Rear
8. 3rd Gen 4Runner (2000-2002) body mount bushing kit, 4 1-piece bushings and 6 2-piece bushings

Notes:

• If you want to change the color of the bushings, you can paint them after installation.
  • Clean the bushings off with a good solvent, rough up the surface gloss with some sandpaper and then spray with a vinyl spray paint of the desired color once they are installed. Rubberized undercoating spray works as well.
• This can also be done on the bushings that we have to reduce in diameter, such as the 60-series, 70-series and FJ80 bushings. This can help to restore the glossy finish lost when trimming the bushing outer diameter.
  • Alternately, if uniform bushing appearance is a concern, you can always request unmodified bushings and then you can modify them or modify the body mount brackets on the vehicle to fit the unmodified bushings. Same with any bushing hardware that we could otherwise modify. If you are building a show quality vehicle and want every part to look perfect, by all means you can get our unmodifed parts and take all the time you want to modify them in whatever way you wish. We assume customers want parts that fit a range of vehicle and do the job, so that is what we focus on.
  • On some of the Toyota Landcruiser bushing kits, we have two options for the larger diameter bushings.
    • The first option is a one piece top bushing of approx. 62mm OD (uncompressed).
    • The second option is we can supply a small center bushing with an enlarging polyurethane ring around the outside that brings the OD up to about 70mm.
    • Let us know if you have a preference, although we can't guarantee which style parts we;ll have on hand at a given time.
• Don't need a full set of bushings? No problem, individual bushings are available for purchase. Contact 4Crawler Offroad with your requirements...

What if there is no bushing kit available for my vehicle?

If you have a vehicle not listed above, that uses 2-piece rubber body mounts, and would like to see about upgrading to poly urethane, contact 4Crawler Offroad and we'll be happy to work with you to develop a solution if possible. You'll need to supply detailed dimensions of the existing bushings, inner and outer diameters, height of upper and lower halves. Basically we will need the type of information listed in the prior section regarding the bushing dimensions. For mounts that bolt onto frame brackets, we'll need to know how the mounts attach to the frame, how many bolts, what size and spacing, etc. And you can browse the available bushing kits and sizes listed above to see if there is something that is close. We can change diameters and heights of the various bushings listed above to fit other vehicles. But don't despair, almost all the bushing kits listed above were developed by 4Crawler Offroad based upon customer input just like requested.

Body Mount Brackets:

Certain vehicles, namely the 1996 Toyota 4Runner, are missing the B-pillar body mount brackets from the factory. For some reason, the brackets weren't attached to the frame, although the mounting plates and holes are present in the floor of the body. Because of the added stress of a body lift, its important to have all the body mount locations available for the most support. On other vehicles, the origial body mount brackets may be damaged by rust or you may need to install new brackets such as when converting a pickup from one cab style to another, such as a regular to extra cab.

Below is a picture our new universal body mount bracket options. Our new brackets will work with frame - body/cab mount bolt spacing of 2-1/2" up to 3-1/2" (63mm - 88mm) or even wider. This includes Toyota pickup/Hilux cab mount brackets 1979-1995, Toyota 4Runner/Hilux Surf main body mount brackets 1984-2002, Toyota Tacoma cab mount brackets 1995.5-2004 and T100 pickups.

Measure the distance horizontally from the face of the frame to the center of where the body or cab mount bolt for sizing. The brackets feature a long slotted hole to allow the bushing to move in or out to align with the body or cab mount bolt for a perfect fit, eliminating the need for precise measurements. Just get within +/- 1/2" (12.5mm) and that's all you need.

Here's a diagram of a typical body or cab mount bracket and bushing for reference. Brackets witll work with or without a body lift installed.

Brackets are made of laser cut and formed 3/16" steel plate.

Bracket is 3" tall where ist attaches to the frame

Width (front-back) is 3-1/4" overall

Depth (frame - end of bracket) is just unde 4-1/4"

Top slotted hole is 1" diameter and 2" long, sized to fit a bushing with a 1" dia. raised center lip.

For deeper applications, a thicker plate can be welded to the back side of the bracket. For example adding a 1/2" plate to the back side will fit up to a 4" frame - bolt spacing, or you can add a 1/4" fishplate to the frame and 1/4" plate to the bracket for a 1/2" deeper bracket. With any of these size modifications, you won't need any precision cut material, just standard width steel flat bar available at most hardware stores will do. If you can handle this yourself, just order the weld-on bracket, with or without the polyurethane bushing.

Also possible to weld on 1", 1.5" or 2" wide extensions to the back side of the bracket for even wider applications. See the YouTube video below for a Dodge Durango bracket where 2" wide flat bar was added to the back side of the bracket and then a bolt-on plate added onto that to fit a 5" frame - cab mount distance: Likewise, we can also cut off a bit of the back side of the bracket to accomodate narrower frame to body mount bolt spacing.

• YouTube video look at the body mount brackets

Likewise, if you needed a bracket that is 4" or 5" wide to fit a larger diameter bushing, the vertical sides could be cut off and a 1/2" or 1" wide flat bar welded in place on each side to widen the bracket accordingly.

They'll fit body mount bushings that have a 1" dia. raised center lip. They are available in a weld-on (left in image below) and a bolt-on (rght in image below) version. The bolt-on version comes with self-tapping screws for attaching the bracket to the frame. The bolt-on version will require a flat area of frame to mount to, so any old bracket would need to be completely removed. The weld-on bracket would onlys need clean, flat steel around the outside for welding. It can also be welded onto a wider bracket, such as under the A-pillar.

Body Mount Bracket Kit

This kit can be used with or without a body lift. Brackets are available in single units, so order 2 if you want one for each side of the frame. Also available with our round polyurethane bushings. If you are replacing a bracket with bushings that bolt in place, you'll need to order the version with new bushings. We have bushings available in a 45mm, 62mm and 70mm diameter. The bushings come with the top and bottom cushions, a steel sleeve and a steel top washer. Also available is a heavy duty bottom washer (1/8" thick x 2" diameter) if you want to replace the original bottom washer from your old body mount bushing. Bushings can accomodate up to 1/2" diameter bolts. They come set up with 3/8" dia. holes in the washers and you can drill these larger if needed.

Pricing:

• Weld-on:
  • Bare bracket - US$25.00
  • Bracket with poly body mount bushing, sleeve and top washer: US$37.50
  • In stock and can ship with a day or two.
• Bolt-on:
  • Bracket with 2 self-tapping mounting screws - US$35.00
    • Bolt-on plate is typically 3/16" thick steel and can either be welded inside the bracket, preserving the 2.5" - 3.5" spacing or can be welded outside the bracket, pushing it out 3/16" wider. Please let us know if you have a preference.
  • Bracket with poly body mount bushing, sleeve and top washer: US$47.50
  • For added width, we can weld on 1", 1.5" or 2" wide extensions between the bracket and mounting plate for applications with a wider frame-mount bolt spacing.
    • E.g. a 1" extension moves the bracket out to fit 3.5" - 4.5" frame to mount bolt spacing.
    • Add US$32.50/bracket for the added width.
    • We also can add a 1/2" thick bolt-on plate to the back of the bracket, to fit 3" - 4" spacing, for $10.00 additional, per bracket.
  • For narrower width, add $7.50/bracket to have up to 1/2" of the back side cut off to fit narrower body mount applications.
  • Painting:
    • Add $2.50/bracket for a primer coat and $5.00 for primer + black enamel
    • Or you can finish the brackets as you desired.
  • Bolt-on brackets come with 2 - 3/8" self tapping bolts and 3 pre-drilled mounting holes
    • Add $2.50 for an additional self-tapping bolt if you want to use all 3 holes
    • Or add $5.00 for 2 additional bolts and a 4-hole bolt-on plate.
    • You can also use regular 3/8" coarse threaded bolts after tapping holes with the self-tapping bolts.
  • Allow a few weeks fabrication time for the bolt-on brackets.
• New polyurethane bushings.
  • We have 3 sizes of bushing available (uncompressed diameters listed, they'll expand about 1/4" when compressed)
    • Small 1-3/4" / 45mm dia.,
    • Large 2-1/2" / 62mm dia.
    • Extra large 2-3/4" / 70mm dia, add US$5.00 for each extra large bushing
  • All are ~3/4" (19mm) tall (above the bracket), 92A durometer polyurethane with a 1/8" (3mm) thick top washer and a steel sleeve for the center.
• Additional hardware:
  • New body mount bolt/nut, US$6.00 SAE size or $7.50 metric
    • You should be able to re-use your existing body mount bolt as long as it's 1/2" or smaller diameter
    • Can supply new hardware: 3/8", 10mm, 7/16", 12mm or 1/2" bolts up to 6"/150mm long
  • New bottom bushing washer: US$2.00/ea.
• Shipping and ordering options
  • Up to 4 brackets + bushings can ship for the medium flat rate box postage in the US or Internationally.

For bolt-on installation, you'll need to grind the frame flat over about a 3" x 3" square area and have sufficient frame wall thickness (at least 1/8" or 3mm) for the self-tapping bolts. One option with the bolt-on bracket is you can do the grinding and bolting of the bracket to the frame with simple home tools. Then you could drive to a welding shop and have them run a bead around the bracket to permanently attach it to the frame. This would save a lot of the installation cost that a shop would charge for the full install.

The weld-on bracket only requires clearing the frame in the area where you'll be welding the bracket to. It also works well if you find you need to fish plate the frame rail to repair rust-thinned metal there. Do that then weld the bracket in place. The weld-on bracket is also good if you need to customize it by adding additonal material to space it out from the frame.

Contact us for custom applications and shipping details. Please provide the frame to body mount bolt distance if enquiring about a bolt-on bracket: sales@4Crawler.com

Standard vs. Ultimate vs. Mega Lift Blocks:

Most (if not all) commercial body lift kits we've looked at use a "one size fits all" approach. You get one diameter of lift block (usually 2" OD) and that is to be used in all body mount locations. If you are a bit confused about the difference between the Standard and Ultimate body lift blocks, below are various combinations (of lift blocks - white UHMW or aluminum) installed on actual Toyota body mount bushings (the black rubber things) so you can see the differences:

A. 2-piece body mounts	B. Ultimate Lift Blocks
C. Aluminum vs. UHMW	D. Aluminum Lift Blocks

• Photo A is an example of the 2-piece body mounts common in '79-'88 pickups and '84-'89 4Runners (i.e. 1st generation). The smaller mount is found under the radiator support, the larger mount is used for the rest of the cab/body, 4 in a pickup, 8 in a 4Runner.
  • On top, from left to right, are a 2" dia. aluminum block, a 2" UHMW block, and a 2-1/2" UHMW block.
• Photo B, shows how the the Ultimate blocks match the diameter of the stock body mounts.
• Photos C and D show the 2" dia. aluminum blocks compare to the 2" dia. of the UHMW blocks
  • The UHMW material is slightly over nominal size

E. 1-piece body mount '89+ pickup/Tacoma w/ the various lift blocks	F. 2" aluminum block
G. 2" UHMW block	H. 2-1/2" UHMW block

While a few eighths of an inch doesn't sound like a big deal, the difference in area is dramatic, the 2" UHMW block has nearly 27% more surface area than an actual 2" block and the 2-1/2" UHMW block has nearly 80% more surface area. Surface area equates directly to pressure on the floor of the cab/body of the vehicle. Many aftermarket body lift kits only supply 2" dia. blocks which are probably sufficient for on-road and mild off-road use, but for extreme off-road service, you need all the surface area you can get, or something like this can happen (image I below):

I: Problem with too-small lift block	J: Larger Diameter Block

So if larger blocks are better, why stop at 2.5"? A few reasons not to use larger blocks:

• Certain body mount locations are fairly constrained and a larger block simply won't fit
  • In fact in image J above, observe how a larger block would have trouble resting flat against the cab floor due to the curve of the sheet metal
• The body mount bushing and reinforced pad on the body are only so large. Having excess block material hanging over the edge provides no added benefit
• Larger blocks use more material and cost more money, so best to use a block that approximates the size of the body mount

On some vehicles, we do offer a Mega lift block option. The Mega blocks are typically 3" to 3.5" in diameter for those vehicles where the body mount bushings are that large and the owner wants to use a block that more closely matches the diameter of the bushing. Examples of vehicle with the Mega blocks are the later model FJ Cruisers, some 4th generation 4Runners and of course the Kia Sportage where we only offer that size.

Bottom Line: The Ultimate blocks simply are larger in diameter to more closely match size of the existing body mount bushings, the Mega blocks are even larger while the standard blocks are all the same (smaller) diameter.

What color are the body lift blocks?

The UHMW material comes in a natural white color, as shown in the section above. As a material, it is somewhat similar to Teflon in that it is very stain-resistant and most dyes and paints will not stick. 4Crawler Offroad has developed a process by which a colored coating is applied to the visible parts of the block, for those wishing a color other than white. This process is available at an additional cost and is currently available in flat black. Click here to see an image of a colored 1" tall block . This is specified by ordering the CLR kit option. If the block coloring is slightly scratched during shipment or installation, it is easy to touch up with a flat color spray paint. The coloring process also affords UV light protection for blocks that may be exposed to direct sunlight. Generally, however, the body lift blocks are not visible or exposed to direct sunlight. But you can make that decision for yourself, examine your vehicle and look for the body mount brackets and bushings and decide if you'll be able to see the lift block sitting on top of that bushing.

NEW: By popular demand, we now have a limited supply of solid black UHMW material in the 2" and 2.5" diameters. If we have this on-hand, we'll try to use it for your body lift blocks when ordered in the black color (CLR option).

If you want a color other than black or white, the cost is twice the cost of the black color, so add qty. 2 - CLR kit options and specify the color desired in the order. Alternately you can order the CLR option and ask us not to paint the blocks, but the surface prep will be done so you can apply your own paint.

For all pre-painted (CLR) lift blocks, you may notice some minor paint loss during shipping. It is easy enough for the blocks to be touched up before or after installing with some inexpensive spray enamel paint. It is probably best to touch up the blocks after installation as you may scrape and scratch them during installation. You can also apply an undercoating spray to the blocks if you wish as that is the type of coating applied at the factory under most vehicles, so if you are looking to blend the lift blocks in to the rest of the underside of the vehicle, that is another option.

Of course, the 1" tall aluminum blocks are natural aluminum color. You may paint, powder coat or anodize them to your color preference.

Standard vs. Heavy Duty Mounting Hardware:

Mounting hardware is offered in both a standard and over size and also in standard and heavy duty grade (see bottom of this section for more information on the standard size, heavy duty grade hardware).

Standard Grade, Standard Size hardware:

is designed to fit all the stock washers, bushings, etc. as-is, without need for modification. It is also of equal strength to the stock hardware (SAE Grade 5 ~ Metric Grade 8.8). The hardware kit cost varies depending on application. Standard grade hardware is approx. 115,000 - 120,000 psi tensile strength.

Standard Grade, Oversize hardware:

The larger heavy duty hardware, is designed to be the maximum size and strength that can be installed in the vehicle without requiring major modifications. It may require re-drilling holes in some of the stock body mount washers (see installation instructions), but in the case of the pressed on tabbed washers, the oversize bolts have the larger diameter of the factory bolts under the head where they are enlarged for the press fit washer, so the old washers will often press fit back onto the new body mount bolts like stock. This option is only available on the early Toyota pickups and 4Runners and on some Tacoma models. Bottom Line: If you lack the ability and/or tools to drill holes (7/16" or 12mm or 1/2") dia. in steel washers, then go with the standard size hardware, or see below for other hardware options.. With the larger surface area, the oversize hardware is approx. 35% stronger than the standard size hardware (assuming a 7/16" vs. a 10mm dia. bolt with similar metallic strengths). For for vehicles with 10mm stock size h/w, you can request the HD hardware option and advise us that you would like the oversized hardware standard grade in place of the standard size heavy duty grade.

On the 4th generation 4Runner and FJ Cruiser body lift kits, this is the default hardware option, with the stock size hardware being 12mm and the oversize hardware is 12% stronger at 1/2" and the standard size hardware is 7/16".

Heavy Duty Grade Hardware (HD kit option)

Another option for upgraded hardware is using standard size, heavy duty grade (Grade 8) bolts, or in the case of the 4th generation 4Runner and FJ Cruiser kits, you also have the option of both standard size and oversize heavy duty hardware. This option adds approx. $15 to the cost of the hardware kit and includes Grade 8 bolts for all the cab/body mounts. You can specify the type of hardware you desire at the time of ordering. With the standard size Grade 8 hardware, no modification to the stock body mount hardware is required. This option, listed as kit HD, can be specified on almost all the body lift kits. This option is generally recommended on lifts of 2" and higher, This option is available for all applications that list the HD option in the kit. Heavy duty grade hardware is made from an alloy steel that is tempered for approx. 150,000 psi tensile strength and is in the range of 25% - 30% stronger than stock.

We typically supply a heat treated Grade 5 lock nut with the HD bolts. Since body mount bolts are not torqued down to a high pre-load, the hardened Grade 5 nuts offer more than enough clamping strength. The only visible difference will be the color, the nuts will be a silver colored zinc plate finish while the bolts will be a yellow zinc chromate finish.

If you want to have matching colors or must have Grade 8 nuts with the Grade 8 bolts, add the HDnuts kit item to your order, along with the HD (bolts) option. We don't list this in each lift kit pricing table, but the kit option and price should apply to all the lift kits that use bolts and nuts and offer an HD option. Note that with metric hardware, this is not an option. Likewise on pickup kits, the nuts on the bed bolts are not upgradeable and on the Tacoma models, the bed hardware is metric only and the nuts are typically part of the bed or frame and are re-used.

If you don't want to re-use your factory bushing bottom washers or want an upgraded bottom wahser, we offer the HDwash kit item. This adds hardened, oversized wahsers for the bottom of all the body mount bolts. Think of a fender washer (large diameter washer with a smaller hole in the center), but way thicker and made of hardened steel. This option works well if you are installing poly body mount bushings and your original rubber bushings have the bottom washers bonded to the rubber bushing.

Standard Size, Stainless Steel Hardware (SS kit option):

Available for certain applications is a marine grade 316 alloy stainless steel hardware kit (316 alloy is highly resistant to salt corrosion). This option adds approx. $30-40 to the cost of hardware kit Stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance over the zinc plated steel used in the standard and heavy duty hardware options. Stainless steel hardware is available by special order. One draw back of stainless steel is that it is only about 85,000 psi tensile strength. But if rust is a big issue for you, the world's strongest steel will lose strength rapidly as it rusts away, while stainless steel "takes a licking but keeps on ticking" to quote a popular watch commercial. And while there are higher grade stainless steel alloys available, they are very expensive and very hard to find on the extremely long lengths needed for body lift applications. If you opt for the SS hardware upgrade, be sure to use an anti-seize compound on the bolt threads prior to installing the nut. Stainless steel threaded fasteners are prone to galling when tightened and if you ever want to take the nut off the bolt in the future, the anti-seize compound will ensure the nut comes off without trouble.

Pickup and Tacoma lift kits don't list SS hardware options, but we can supply SS hardware for the cab mounting bolts if desired. We are unable to source the long, extra fine threaded stainless hardware required for the bed bolts on these vehicles. Inquire for pricing and availability.

The SS kit option upgrades both the nuts and bolts to stainless steel.

If you also wish to have stainless steel bottom washers, you can add the SSwash kit option for an additional cost of US$20.00/kit to add or upgrade the washers on the bottoms of the body mount bolts to stainless steel. Note that this option is not listed on the regular kit pricing tables, but if a kit offers an SS hardware option, you can add the SSwash kit item to get stainless steel washers along with the stainless steel bolts/nuts. Otherwise, kits will either include zinc plated bottom washers for those kits that require washers, or you will re-use the existing bottom washers on those vehicles that have re-useable washers.

Same size as stock metric hardware (MET kit option):

Certain lift kits offer a metric body mount hardware option This option is for folks who want to retain all metric hardware on their vehicle, Although depending on bolt and nut availability, the thread pitch and head size may vary from stock, as it is very difficult to find some metric thread pitches in the extra long bolts needed for a body lift. And note that long metric bolts are fairly expensive here in the US, thus the added cost of that option. Metric Class 8.8 hardware (which is what is offered in the MET option) typically runs about 116,000 psi tensile strength, so about the same as SAE Grade 5. While there are stronger classes of metric hardware (such as 10.9 and higher), they are very hard to find in the US, and especially in the extremely long lengths needed for body lift applications.

So which hardware option does 4Crawler Offroad recommend?

If low cost is important, get the standard grade hardware, this is the default

If ease of installation is important, specify the standard size hardware with your order

If maximum strength and ruggedness is important, get the heavy duty hardware kit upgrade (HD), if available

If corrosion resistance is important, get the stainless steel hardware kit upgrade (SS), if available

If you prefer to have metric hardware, get the metric hardware kit upgrade (MET), if available

And of course, you can also supply your own hardware, if you want all metric or something even larger or heavy duty stainless steel, it is your choice. Just let us know what diameter bolts you plan on using so the blocks can be pre-drilled to fit.

And finally, why are the above hardware options "mutually exclusive"? That is why can't I order Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Metric hardware? Well, several reasons. If you look at the "universe" of bolts available, you can get most anything as long as you don't care what you are getting. But as you start narrowing down the bolt specifications, you'll find that "universe" rapidly collapses. Body lifts inherently need long bolts. Why? Well vehicle manufactures are using body mount bolts upwards of 6"/150mm long in stock form and by the nature of a body lift, the bolts have to be longer than stock, so up to 8"-9" long in some cases. Length is one factor that limits bolt availability as does size, since body mount bolts tend to be in the 3/8"-1/2" size. Then start tacking on things like Grade 5 or Grade 8 and the selection of bolts falls off, but ask for stainless steel or (at least in the US) metric, and your choices are very limited. And this is just using one choice or grade/size, but start combining them and you can just about write off any chance of finding an off-the-shelf bolt. And in fact you'll find that some some lift kit applications, certain options are only available up to a certain lift height or on certain vehicles. This is typically due to length issues, above a certain bolt length, that combination of bolt specifications is not economically available, so will be marked "n/a" (or Not Available).

Sure, you can get something custom made or from a specialty supplier, but the cost in small quantities is very high. For example, look at an engine head stud kit, they use high strength alloys (190,000 psi is common) but you are looking at $15-$20 per stud and nut for that hardware. Multiply that by 10-14 bolts needed for a body lift and you get the idea.

And while in certain cases, some combination of hardware options might be available, there is the cost of sourcing and stocking that rarely ordered hardware option in all the lengths and diameters needed, not to mention the space used to store that hardware is prohibitive for something that might only be ordered once every year or two. For example, we only ship a few kits a year w/ the stainless steel hardware and even less with metric hardware.

What about manual transmission and transfer case shifters and clutch hoses?

• Shifter Extensions
• Clutch Slave Cylinder Hose Extension

Manual transmissions and transfer cases have shift levers that are attached to the transmission (or transfer case) and extend up into the passenger compartment for access. Since the transmission or transfer case is attached to the frame, when the body is lifted, the shift lever "sinks" into the floor of the vehicle. With a 1" lift, this would probably not even be noticed. On a 2" - 3" lift, it probably is noticeable. The shifter(s) will still work like normal, given you address any clearance issues with the floor penetration/shifter boot(s). Most people have no issue with the lowered shift levers, you usually adjust to the change in a few days of driving. However, some folks find this situation bothersome. They are used to reaching out for the shifter and don't find it where it used to be, or they find they are missing shifts, etc. So, if you fall into the latter group, by all means, extend the shifter(s).

Several options exist to correct this problem.

• One option is to cut the shift lever off near the base and have a section of 1/2" dia. steel rod welded in to lengthen the shifter. This consists of one or more lengths of 1/2" steel rod, available in 2" and 3" lengths. Cost is $3.50/ea. plus shipping. Installation requires cutting the shifter down near the pivot point (where it is ~1/2" in dia.) and welding in the rod to lengthen the shifter. When doing this, you also have the option of angling the shifter in a different direction if that helps with shifter clearance. Click here for a picture of a pair of 2" weld-in extensions.
• Another option is an extension that can be added to the top of the shift lever. As such, the extension will have an internal thread to match the end of the shifter and an external thread to accept the shifter lnob to be re-installed on top. Note that this extension will only work on shifters that have a screwed on shift knob and only on ones without any sort of switch or actuator on the knob. Also note that this extension will typically not help reduce shifter binding at the floor penetration due to a body lift, it will only raise the shifter knob up higher.

When deciding to extend the sifter(s), you can decide if you want to du just the transmission or the transfer case shifter(s) as well. All can typically be extended, but realize you will be using the transmission shifter many, many times each time you drive the truck, so extending this shifter gives the best "bang for the buck". The transfer case shifter(s) are typically not used that much, unless you take your truck off-road every day. And even if you do, how often do you find you are shifting the transfer case gears. So there is much less benefit to extending those shifter(s), but you can if you want to.

So bottom line is if having lowered shifters, due to a body lift, will bother you, by all means extend them. If it does not bother you, by all means leave them as-is. After all, there are no "shifter police" that will be pulling you over on the road to check the height of the shifters :)

We now offer a selection of thread sizes for different vehicles. Toyota mainly uses M12x1.25 (12mm dia. and 1.25mm extra fine thread pitch) up until the 2nd generation Tacoma pickups that seem to use M8x1.25, as does the Kia Sportage. M10x1.25 seemes to be used on the Mitibishi Montero/Pajero vehicles. Many European vehicles use M12x1.50 thread.

• Conversions:
  • 8mm is ~5/16", 10mm is ~3/8" and 12mm is ~1/2"
  • 1.25mm thread pitch is ~20 TPI (threads per inch), 1.50mm is ~16 TPI

Best to check which thread size you need by unscrewing the shifter knob and checking. You can use a bolt or nut of known diameter and thread pitch to check if you're uncomfortable measuring.

3" Extension (top) 2" Extension (bottom)	Shifter Extension Installed

• 1.5" Shifter Extension (ToyMT_SL1.5): US$20.00 + shipping
• 2" Shifter Extension (ToyMT_SL2): US$20.00 + shipping
• 3" Shifter Extension (ToyMT_SL3): US$25.00 + shipping
• US First Class postage: US$4.95
• Internation First Class postage: US$18.95

One extension will be needed for each shift lever that you want to lengthen. The extension length is measured along the smooth section, with an extra inch being threaded to accept the shifter knob. A shipping charge is added automatically with the ordering buttons above for Priority Mail delivery, please be sure to provide a VALID mailing address and international orders, provide a local telephone number for customs paperwork.

One issue that shift levers can cause with body lifts is that as the shifter "sinks" into the floor, the distance from the lever's pivot point to the floor penetration is increased. This means that the shift lever sweeps out a wider arc in the various gear selection positions. Enlarging the hole in the floor is one option or bending the base of the shift lever is another option. A simple extension, while it makes the shift lever longer, will not help alleviate the clearance issues at the shifter boot. A better option to both extend the shifter and to shorten its throw is a short shift kit. Here is a short throw kit that bolts onto the Toyota transfer case shifters.

Clutch Slave Cylinder Hose:

A second issue that may crop up on manual transmission Toyota trucks is the flex hose for the hydraulic clutch where it drops down from the firewall to the clutch slave cylinder. In stock form, on the '84-'95 pickups and 4Runners, the flex hose is usually good for a 2" body lift, but at 3" it may be pulled a little too tight.

1. One option is to relocate the lower end of the hard line closer to the slave cylinder.
2. A second option is to replace that hose with a stock front brake flex line that is typically about 2" longer. This option is good if you have replaced the stock rubber brake hoses with flexible s/s hoses and have your old brake hoses laying around.
3. A third option is to replace the stock rubber clutch hose with a longer braided stainless steel (s/s) line. This option is good if your old hose (clutch or brake) is old and cracked and you do not want to reuse it.

Pictured below (bottom to top) are the stock rubber clutch flex hose (approx. 10.5" long end-end) and a plain s/s flex hose and a s/s flex hose with polyolefin cladding over the s/s braid for added longevity. Both the s/s hoses are approx. 14" long, so 3.5" longer than stock to allow for more lift and flex between the engine/transmission and the body/frame.

Clutch Hose options

Order a replacement s/s clutch hose below:

• Bare s/s hose (ToyBareSSHose): US$40.00 + shipping
• Clad s/s hose (ToyCladSSHose): US$50.00 + shipping
• US Priority Mail Delivery: $8.40
• International shipping: US$18.95

What about automatic transmissions?

Most Toyota 4WD body lift kits would not work on vehicles with automatic transmissions. The A/T shift linkage on most Toyota 4WD pickups and 4Runner (up through 1995) consists of two main parts, the transmission shift lever and the transfer case shift lever. The transmission lever is adjustable and can handle up to a 3" body lift with simple adjustments. There are two types of 4WD, or transfer case, shifters. The most common type is an external linkage, on the other hand will only work up to about a 1" body lift without modifications. Above 1", a bracket is required that lifts the transfer case shift lever up so that body lifts in the 2" to 3" range can now be done on A/T equipped Toyota 4WD vehicles. A less common type of transfer case shifter goes directly into the transfer case, just like a manual transmission setup (see above section) and this bracket setup is not needed. You should examine your transmission/transfer case linkage to verify which type you have before ordering and installing a body lift lit.

The table below lists some typical vehicle applications for which body lift kits are available and whether that application will require brackets for the automatic transmission linkage. Note that "Y" indicates a bracket kit is required to install the body lift and "N" means that one is not needed, although some linkage adjustments will typically be required:

A/T T-case Shift Lever Bracket	Bracket Install Location(s)	A/T Shifter Bracket & Linkage Extension Installed

The bracket is fabricated from heavy gauge steel and includes new mounting bolts to attach the lower bracket to it, the existing hardware is then used to attach the bracket to the stock location (circled in red in the above-right image). The A/T linkage extension is a bolt-on extension for the upper shift linkage (circled in green in the above-right image) to prevent binding in the 2H position. Also available for customers who have another A/T shifter bracket, the A/T linkage extension is available separately (this is the square piece in the A/T bracket kit). The linkage extension is useful in those situations where you "run out" of adjustment in the stock shift linkage. The extension allows you to raise the shift linkage attachment point up to minimize the effect of the body lift. And on the 2WD pickups and 4Runners, this linkage bracket may be the only bracket you need since your truck lacks the transfer case shifter. Again this linkage extension is typically needed at a 3" lift and optional at 2" lift.

We have redesigned the A/T shifter kits so that all parts can be used on 2" and 3" lifts interchangeably. So while most folks typically only need the A/T shift lever bracket at 2", you can install the A/T linkage extension if you wish. Likewise, while most folks typically need both the bracket and linkage extension at 3", some only need the shift lever bracket, so you can now mix and match the parts as you wish. Consult the installation instructions for more details.

The A/T shift lever bracket is priced at $45 (typically for use on 2" lifts) or the full bracket plus linkage extension kit for $55 (typically for use on 3" lifts). If you have another brand body lift that does not include the A/T linkage brackets, this is the kit for you. A 2" or 3" lift is a 2" or 3" lift no matter what brand lift kit is used. Also you can use either the bracket or linkage extension on either a 2" or 3" lift.

A shipping charge is added automatically with the ordering buttons below for Priority Mail delivery, please be sure to provide a VALID mailing address and international orders, provide a local telephone number for customs paperwork.. Before ordering these bracket kits, see the important notes below:

Notes:

• A shipping charge added automatically with the ordering buttons above for Priority Mail (within the US) or Priority Mail International (outside the US), please be sure to provide a VALID mailing address and international orders, provide a local telephone number for customs paperwork.
• You should make sure you have a linkage-style transfer case shifter. Some A/T-equipped trucks have transfer case shifters that go directly into the transfer case, just like a manual transmission truck has. If this is the case, then do not order this adapter/bracket, IT WILL NOT WORK FOR YOU. Other options are to extend the transfer case shift lever, or convert it to a short throw setup.
• For the Tacoma ('95.5 onwards) and 3rd. gen 4Runner ('96-'02) applications, the shift linkage only requires adjustment, no bracket is needed.

What about steering?

A: Steering shaft disassembled	B: Steering shaft extended
C: Recirc.Ball vs. Rack&Pinion	D: 4th Gen 4Runner/Tacoma

Pictured above are a selection of our 1" (25mm) nominal spacers. We have taller versions up to 3" (75mm) nominal and they are the same design, differeing only in height.

Many vehicles use a rubber "rag joint" in the steering shaft to help dampen out road vibrations in the steering wheel. It is used to joint two sections of the steering shaft via a round rubber disc. One section of shaft is attached to the rubber disc via a pair of studs. The other end of the shaft is attached via a pair of bolts or rivets. The attaching flange has two slots that fit around the studs. These slots allow the studs to move around as the rubber twists under load and vibration. Before the rubber can twist too far, the studs make contact with the side of the slots.

Our spacers are designed to fit over the studs with over sized holes allowing the studs freedom of movement. The spacer is bolted to the other side of the steering shaft. This way it extends the function of the slots. Many vehicles use a similar style rag joint, including Toyota, Isuzu, etc. To check if your vehicle has a silimar rag joint, the rubber disc is approx. 3" (75mm) in diameter and the holes are on a 2-1/8" (55mm) diameter bolt circle. Bolt size is 5/16" (8mm) and the slots for the studs are appox. 3/4" (19mm) across. The spacers are machined from billet 6061-T6 aluminum alloy for strength and come with a pair of longer bolts and lock nuts to replace the original bolts.

Toyota vehicles with rack and pinion steering typically use a nearly vertical steering shaft that runs from the steering column penetration of the firewall to the steering rack mounted on the frame. Since the shaft is vertical, it is directly affected by a body lift. There is some amount of adjustment at the lower clamp, sometimes and inch or more of excess shaft is inside the clamp. However, it is difficult to ascertain the amount of spline remaining inside the clamp without removing the steering shaft. At the base of the steering shaft is the "rag joint", that allows for slight misalignment and also helps to absorb jolts from the road. It is possible to slightly extend the length of the shaft with washers on top of the rag joint. Beyond about 1/2" and the stop bolts on the rag joint will slip past the slots on the steering shaft and this would leave the rag joint unsupported and subject to damage. Therefore, an extension of some is required. In the above images, you can see the rag joint disassembled and the extension that slips over the stop bolts and is then bolted in between the rag joint and steering shaft. Due to the angle of the steering shaft, the spacer can be a bit less than the amount of body lift, for example, for a 3" lift, the spacer is 2.5" tall. In our experienhce, it's much easier to pull the male spline out of the upper shaft clamp a little bit, if needed, then it is to push the male spline farther into the clamp. This is becuase the female splines farther up in the pinch clamp are often rusty or dirty and would require dissembline the clamp to clean out the splines. The table below lists some typical vehicle applications for which body lift kits are available and whether that application will require extensions for the steering shaft. Note that "Y" indicates an extension is likely required to install the body lift and "N" means that one is likely not needed, although some adjustment of the steering shaft may be required (click here for details). On certain models, Toyota changed from the recirculating ball steering box to a rack and pinion type steering around 1995-6 time frame. The vehicles listed in Bold/Italic represent the rack and pinion type steering extensions, vs. the other vehicles that use the recirculating ball steering box. Easy to check which type of steering you have. The recirculating ball steering box will be attached to the outside of the frame, up in front of the front axle on the driver's side. The rack and pinion steering is located in the center of the vehicle, down low on the firewall behind the front axle. So be sure and check your vehicle to see which type of steering you have before ordering an extension.

• N* Extension not needed but 1" extension can be installed if desired
• N Means an extension is not needed
• n/a Means a steering extension for that lift height is not available
• Y or Y/x" Means that an extension is needed and if so, what height
• Y* Means that an extension is needed and it needs to be custom extra tall version
  - '96 and later Hilux / Hilux Surf imply non-US models which are closer to the '95 and earlier US models
• Y** For Tundra models:
  • With a bolted steering rag joint can use the same rack and pinion extension as the 1st gen Tacoma picjups use
  • For a riveted steering rag joint, we can make custom steering shaft extensions, inquire for pricing

The 1" lift rack&pinion extension (pictured right in image "C" above) is priced at $30.00 for use with existing body lifts. Extensions for 1.5", 2" and 3" lifts are available for use on existing body lifts as well. On Tacoma 4WD pickups with 4" ProComp lifts, steering extension beyond 5/8" tall may not clear the steering rack drop bracket.

Use the convenient on-line ordering buttons below to order stand-alone steering shaft extensions for use with your existing body lift: (if ordering with a 4Crawler body lift kit, do not order below, contact 4Crawler Offroad for a kit discount). A shipping charge is added automatically with the ordering buttons below for Priority Mail delivery, please be sure to provide a VALID mailing address and international orders, provide a local telephone number for customs paperwork. Order the steering extension designed for the type of steering:

• Recirculating Ball Steering Shaft Extension for Toyota pickups and 4Runner (1984-1995), T-100 pickups, FJ-80 Landcruiser and Lexus LX-450
• Rack and Pinion Steering Shaft Extension for Toyota Tacoma 1095-5-2004 and 4Runner 1996-2002
• Rag Joint Steering Shaft Extension for Toyota 4Runner 2003-2008, FJ Cruiser and Tacoma 2005+

Rack and Pinion Extension for 1995.5-2004 Tacoma, '96-'02 4Runner as well as Tundra pickups with bolted rag joint (SE1):

• 1": US$30.00 - for 1" body lift applications, p/n: TRP_1EX - Out of stock
  • Physical height = 7/8"
• 1.5" US$40.00 - for 1.5" body lift applications, p/n: TRP_1.5EX - In stock
  • Physical height = 1-5/16"
• 2": US$40.00 - for 2" body lift applications, p/n: TRP_2EX - In stock
  • Physical height = 1-3/4"
• 3": US$50.00 - for 3" body lift applications, p/n: TRP_3EX - In stock
  • Physical height = 2-1/2"
• Shipping:
  • US Priority Mail Delivery: US$8.40
  • International Priority Delivery: US$35.95

---

Extensions over ~2.5" tall will not fit un-lifted rack&pinion vehicles due to rag joint / frame interference, but this is tall enough for a 3" body lift, due to the angle of the steering shaft. These extensions can also be combined with upper spline extensions used in other lift kits, such as what PA supplies, or it can be used to replace the problematic and breakage-prone spline extensions. Also note that on Tacoma Pickups with Edelbrock headers, you may be restricted to about a 1" tall spacer, due to header/rag joint clearance issues.

Recirculating Ball Steering Shaft Extension for 1984-1995 Toyota pickup and 4Runner applications, T-100 pickups and FJ-80 Landcruiser/Lexus LX-450:

1" spacer shown, 1.5" and 2" look similar, only taller

For recirculating ball steering (pictured left in image "C" above), generally the steering shaft is extendable (and collapsible for crash safety). But if you can't extend the shaft, a similar bolt-in rag joint spacer is available. Since the steering shaft is at an angle, you usually only need extensions over 2" of lift and then only at 1/2 the amount of lift. For example a 1" spacer (3/4" actual height) should be enough for a 2"-3"lift or when moving the steering box forward, as with a Solid Axle Swap (SAS). Due to the extra machining for this type of rag joint, the 1" spacer runs $40.00 for use on existing body lifts, or $35.00 when purchased as part of a 4Crawler body lift kit. This type of spacer can be used on 2"-3" lifted Toyota 4x4 pickups and 4Runners from 1995 and earlier and T-100 pickups. Note that it is not required as it is usually easy to extend the stock steering shaft. Also, be sure to specify whether you need the rag joint clearance slot/pockets (see picture "C") in line with the large or the small holes. Note that the extension may have either two pockets or one slot machined for clearance, either one will work fine. The large holes fit over the studs in the rag joint, the small holes are for the bolts that hold it together. The slots provide clearance for the tabs the encase the rag joint rubber and allow the spacer to sit flush to the rag joint. The 2" spacer can be used for applications where the stock steering box has been relocated farther forward on the frame or where the existing steering shaft is not long enough with the 1" spacer, an example application shown in this link. Also available a 1.5" spacer for those in-between situations.

• 1": US$40.00 - for 2"-3" body lift applications, p/n: TRB_1EX - Inventory: In-stock
  • Physical height = 7/8"
• 1.5" US$50.00 - For body lift plus steering box moved forward, p/n: TRB_1.5EX Inventory: In-stock
  • Physical height = 1-5/16""
• 2": US$55.00 - For body lift plus steering box moved forward, p/n: TRB_2EX Inventory: In-stock
  • Physical height = 1-3/4"
• Raw spacers in stock as noted, allow a few days for custom machining
• Shipping:
  • US Priority Mail Delivery: US$8.40
  • Canada/Mexico Priority Delivery: US$28.95
  • International Priority Delivery: US$35.95

---

Rag Joint Steering Shaft Extension for Toyota 4Runner 2003-2008. FJ Cruiser, Tacoma 2005+, and Isuzu Rodeo:

A steering shaft extension is also available for the 4th generation Toyota 4Runner, FJ Cruiser and some 2005+ Tacoma models with bolted rag joint steering shafts (and it is such a good design that other lift kit manufacturers. have stolen our design for use in their own kits!). These spacers aslo work on the Isuzu Rodeo and similar vehicles with a ~3" dia. rubber rag joint.

On the later model Tacoma pickups (2005 and later), some steering rag joints are bolts and some are riveted or have pressed in studs. If you have a riveted rag joint, you'll need to be able to remove that steering shaft in order to drill or press out the rivets/studs before you can install the steering shaft spacer and also order a special version of the spacer what is drilled out larger in the center to clear the riveted rag joint - the special version adds $15.00/spacer to the cost of those below. Contact us for details. So be sure you ascertain what setup you have prior to ordering.

Extension bolts on to the rubber rag joint in the driver's side foot well. It features a drilled out center hole (3/4" - 19mm nominal) to fit over the steering shaft and through holes to allow the existing bolts to fit inside.

• Spacers, nominal height:
  • 1": US$45.00 - for 1"-1.5" body lift applications, p/n: T4R4_1EX Inventory: In-stock
    • Physical height = 7/8"
    • If looking to extend your steering spacer to 1-3/4" and you have a 7/8" spacer, order another and let us know you need longer bolts
  • 1.5": US$55.00 - for > 1.5" body lift applications, p/n: T4R4_1.5EX Inventory: In-stock
    • Physical height = 1-5/16"
  • 2": US$65.00 - for > 2" body lift applications, p/n: T4R4_2EX Inventory: In-stock
    • Physical height = 1-3/4"
  • Raw spacers in stock as noted, allow a few days for custom machining
• Shipping:
  • US Priority Mail Delivery: US$8.40
  • International Priority Delivery: US$35.95

-- 1" -- 1.5" -- 2" --

Postage and applicable sales tax is added automatically with the ordering buttons above for Priority Mail delivery, please be sure to provide a VALID mailing address. Both type of extensions come with mounting hardware to install on your steering shaft. T. Contact 4Crawler Offroad if interested in purchasing a separate steering extension for your body lift kit, or order above. See the installation instructions for more information.

[back to the top]

What about bumpers?

Typical Front Bumper Brackets

Body lifts often require bumper brackets to raise the bumpers to match the height that the body was lifted. Pictured above are some typical front bumper bracket kits, showing 3", 2" and 1" brackets for a typical vehicle. These brackets are designed to raise the stock front bumper to match the body lift, since the typical front bumper attaches to both the frame and body. These brackets may also work with aftermarket front bumpers that attach with the stock front bumper mounting holes (typically 2 bolts on each side or in front of the frame - depending on vehicle). The table below lists available front bumper brackets:

If your vehicle is one of the types listed above marked "Yes", then you can order a bumper bracket below. State the year and type of vehicle and the lift height desired in the "Note" field of the order form:

A shipping charge is added automatically with the ordering buttons above for Priority Mail, please be sure to provide a VALID mailing address and international orders, provide a local telephone number for customs paperwork. If you do not see your bumper application listed above, feel free to contact 4Crawler Offroad to see about availability. For a new bracket to be designed, you'll be required to furnish pertinent dimensions of your existing brackets, such as bolt hole size and spacing. And feel free to consult the installation instructions to see how the brackets are installed and also see the section on modifying aftermarket bumper brackets for use with body lifts.

[back to the top]

What about radiators?

The radiator may need to be relocated with a body lift. This is often the case since the radiator mounts to the body and the engine (and cooling fan) are attached to the frame. Lifting the body offsets the two leading to possible fan/shroud interference or reduced cooling efficiency if the fan moves outside the shroud.

There are a few cases where nothing needs to be done with the radiator mounting. One case is where you have an electric fan attached to the radiator itself and as long as that setup is clear to move up with the body, no relocation may be needed. This will also depend on how the radiator hoses can handle the offset. In some cases, you may find at lifts of 2" or higher, the radiator hoses may become kinked and that might restrict coolant flow. So be sure to inspect both the upper and lower radiator hoses to see how they will respond to the offset caused by a body lift. Another case where the radiator may not need to be relocated is where there is "daylight" between the fan and shroud (or where the fan shroud has been removed). In this case, the radiator can be raised without causing interference with the fan, so as long as the hoses are "happy", no relocation is needed. And a variation of this case is where the lower half of the fan shroud is removable (or has been removed), then the fan has clearance below the shroud and the body lift will cause no interference.

That said, there are some advantages to relocating the radiator back in line with the engine mounted fan, assuming that fan has not been replaced with an electric fan. That is that the fan and shroud are an important part of the cooling system, especially when stopped or when driving at slow speeds, like when going off-road. The shroud and fan work together to maximize air flow through the radiator when the fan is the only source of air flow (note that when driving at speeds of 20MPH or more, the natural air flow from the vehicle's motion is usually sufficient to cool the engine). But we have seen some studies some time ago in one of the off-roading magazines where they tested all sorts of radiator/fan/shroud setups for cooling efficiency and the variation was only in the 5% range from no shroud to a properly fitting shroud. But, if you live in a hot climate and tow a boat up into the mountains with the A/C running, you may need every percent of cooling efficiency you can get. While if you live in a cooler climate, it may make no difference. Like we tell folks, there are no "radiator police" out there that will pull you over to measure your radiator height and write you up if it is not perfect.

The drop brackets pictured below may be used on most vehicles that use 4 screws to hold the radiator in place on the front core support. The upper set of brackets feature a 5/16" threaded stud and 3/8" holes spaced at 1" intervals (on the 2" and taller brackets) to allow the radiator to be lowered to match the body lift height. The lower set of brackets are used for certain applications where screws go through the core support into threaded holes in the radiator flange, such as on the Toyota Tacoma and 3rd/4th gen 4Runners. They are identical to the upper brackets, but the kit includes 4 - M8x1.25 allen head screws to use to attach the brackets to the radiator and then the studs on the brackets go through the holes in the core support for mounting.

1" Drop Brackets	2" Drop Brackets	3" Drop Brackets

Standard bracket sets shown above, also availabe are 1.25" and 1.5". The deluxe kits include 4 M8 button head screws for later model Toyota vehicles like the Tacoma pickup, 3rd, 4th and 5th generation 4Runner and FJ Cruiser models. These screws allow the brackets to be mounted to the threaded holes in the radiator flange and then the stud on the bracket can be inserted into the hole in the core support and fastened with the supplied lock nut. Customers have also used these to relocate other brackets and things like wheel well liners, so they're not just for radiators.

• RadDropStd, set of 4 brackets US$20.00 + shipping
• RadDropDlx, set of 4 brackets US$25.00 + shipping

Order below:

A shipping charge is added automatically with the ordering buttons above for Priority Mail (within the US) or Priority Mail International (outside the US), please be sure to provide a VALID mailing address and international orders, provide a local telephone number for customs paperwork.

[back to the top]

Materials:

Most everyone knows about aluminum, but Ultra-High Molecular Weight PolyEthylene (UHMW-PE) may be something unfamiliar. Polyethylene itself may be a familiar material, commonly used in milk jugs and other plastic packaging. This is typically a low molecular weight material. UHMW on the other hand is a polymer material with the toughness of a metal: composed of long polymer chains with a molecular weight of between 3 and 6 million. UHMW-PE combines the traditional abrasion resistance of metal alloys with the impact and corrosion resistance of synthetic materials.

The resistance to abrasion, impact and corrosion of UHMW-PE exceeds that of many conventional structural materials. It has a number of other valuable characteristics in applications requiring superior wear resistance and sound deadening. Its self-lubricating properties eliminate the need for oil and greases, making it suitable for use in the food industry where contamination from lubricants would pose problems. High abrasion resistance makes it ideal for liners, enabling light aluminum trucks and trailers to carry sharp or abrasive loads. In the manufacture of separators for lead-acid batteries, UHMW-PE meets this demanding application due to its excellent corrosion resistance.

UHMW-PE has a melting point around 150°C (300°F), a tensile strength nearly twenty times greater than steel, this stuff is often used in bullet-proof vests and in the new synthetic winch cables. For example, consider the free breaking length (FBL), that is the length of a filament of material that could be suspended before it breaks:

This is tough stuff, drop one of the blocks and you'd swear it was metal. It is a bear to cut, it took 4Crawler Offroad quite a bit of research and development to find a way to cut the bulk rod into useable blocks.

One last factor that makes UHMW-PE an ideal material for body lift blocks is that it is self-lubricating, i.e. it won't SQUEAK. With metal spacers or even the extruded fiberglass-type blocks, the constant rubbing action of the floor of the body and the blocks can lead to squeaking and on the fiberglass blocks, the friction can start to wear away the material. UHMW-PE is commonly used for bearing material in industrial applications. UHMW-PE has a wide temperature range as well, from below -100°F to +180°F and a melting point of over 280°F. Here is a link to more extensive physical properties of this material.

Another possible body lift block material we've been asked about is polyurethane. After all, isn't polyurethane used in body mount bushings, so why not make the body lift blocks out of the same material? Body mount bushings are designed to allow a little flex between the frame and the body. They are generally 1"/25mm or less in height and are designed with a given amount of compliance to perform this function. However, add an inch or two or three of flexible polyurethane on top of those bushings and you'll find the body swaying from side to side as you drive down the road. You'll end up with way too much flex and that can lead to fatigue in the body mount bolts. Also, polyurethane is very hard to machine, that's why it's more commonly molded into a shape. Polyurethane casting molds are very expensive to make and you need specialized equipment to properly pour and cure the material. Unless one is making large quantities of the same part, it's cost prohibitive to make parts this way.

UV exposure:

One minor drawback to UHMW is that if it is left exposed to sunlight it can get some surface crazing due to the UV exposure. This typically takes a few years of exposure to show up and since most body mounts are hidden under the truck, this is normally not an issue (reflected light off the ground is no issue). A simple coat of paint or undercoating spray will block any UV that may hit the block if it is somehow exposed to direct sunlight through a gab in the body or bed. The crazing is only surface deep and will not affect the strength of the block. We have a test block that has been in direct sunlight for almost 10 years now and it has crazing over the surface but only a few 0.01" down, the material is unaffected. The UHMW material is slightly translucent and upon exposure to UV, it turns an opaque white color and that limits the depth of penetration of the UV light to the very surface layer to it will not penetrate to the center of the block under normal conditions. You can also order the blocks pre-colored to avoid this issue as well...

If you would like a sample block, that can be sent to you one to evaluate for $3.00 to cover the cost of postage. Just include your name, address, and vehicle application, and you'll receive a sample by US mail shortly:

Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability:

This kit will function for its intended use, that is it will lift the body of the vehicle off the frame by the specified amount, the bolts will fit in the blocks and the nuts will screw onto the threads of the bolts. Anything beyond that is totally out of our control. You must realize that this will raise your vehicle's center of gravity, making it less stable in turns and in off-camber situations. It can also increase leverage on body mounts, especially in cases of high speed impacts. This is simple physics and geometry.

Although this kit is made from the highest quality materials possible, it is not a substitute for safe and careful driving. In other words; good, safe on-road and off-road common sense. Know the terrain, vehicle and speed limitations, and obstacles that lay ahead. Please remember to preserve our right to enjoy public lands through the proper use of your off-road vehicle, Tread Lightly by all means.

After researching materials, equipment, and fabrication techniques, 4Crawler Offroad was formed to provide these products at a reasonable cost in order to be able to offer this solution to others who lacked the time, equipment, or expertise to do this themselves.

NOTES:

• 4Crawler Offroad does not have the resources to go test fit all the kits on every possible year and model truck. Kits have been installed on representative vehicles and it is felt that they will fit as designed. With variations in specific vehicles, etc. 4Crawler Offroad can't guarantee all the parts will fit perfectly on any given vehicle. We will be more than happy to work with you on resolving fitment issues as they come up. If something looks like it won't fit, please contact us and together we can work on resolving the issue.
• If you want to ensure a trouble-free installation, you are more than welcome to provide a list of stock bolt sizes/lengths and other pertinent information prior to placing your order.

Aesthetics:

Its funny how the subject of a body lift can polarize a discussion into folks who absolutely hate them and folks who like them. I'll admit I've seen some rather bad examples of body lifted trucks as well as bad examples of suspension lifts including blocks, cut and welded steering components, foot long shackles, and other nightmares of questionable engineering. Some vehicle bodies sit very high on the frame (Nissan and Chevy pickups come to mind) others, like Toyota, seem to sit very low on the frame. In fact, at stock height, a 4Runner frame is barely visible under the body:

Stock <<<<<<< >>>>>>> 3" Body Lift

In the above photos, you can see my truck when it sat on the stock body mount bushings and 3 years later with a 3" body lift. I think there was more "stuff" hanging down below the body before than after. FYI: Both shots are taken with the same 33x9.50 tires. I do have nerf bars installed in the after shot that were not there in the before picture. I replaced the stock wheel well liners with Lift Lips designed to cover the gap for a 3" body lift.

With the 3" lift:

• I now have room to fit tall enough shocks so they aren't limiting the suspension travel
• I can run a strong nerf bar straight off the frame
• I can fit a full winch bumper at about the same height as the non-winch bumper I used to run
• I've easily gained a foot of clearance at the back of the vehicle by making a much simpler rear bumper coming straight off the frame

Point is that a body lift can be done in a tasteful manner and can be a starting point for a whole lot of other vehicle improvements. A body lift is not a cure-all, either. But as part of a well integrated system it can be a very useful component. Lest you think the body lift is just for show, when I stuff a 33x15.50 Swamper TSL/SX tire up in those wheel wells, I'm happy for every inch of lift that I have:

Both front and rear tires are capable of getting stuffed several inches into the wheel wells. At one time, I measured only 5" from the front fender to the top of the rim, meaning I had about 4" of tire above the lip of the fender.

Folks will list many reasons why a body lift is a bad idea. Mostly those concerns seem to revolve around poor or incomplete installations.

• So just like the person who puts on larger tires and then complains of a "lack of power" in his truck.
  • Well, this is just an incomplete installation, you really should change the axle gearing to restore the original engine RPM and torque range on the road.
• Or a person who installs a suspension lift then complains about drive shaft vibration or CV joint breakage.
  • Again, this is a case of an incomplete installation. You need to address and correct any drive shaft angle/alignment issues and/or take steps to reduce CV joint operating angles to reasonable levels.

So, if someone complains that a body lift messed up the shifter operation, this is another case of an incomplete installation. There are many solutions available to make shifter operation work as well, if not better than stock; including shifter extensions, short throw shift kits, drive train lifts, etc. Or they complain that there is a gap between the body and bumper. Simple fix is to install relocation brackets or modify the bumper to close the gap. And this has the side effect of increasing approach and/or departure angles on the vehicle, which is another aspect of a body lift many folks overlook when they say a body lift provides no increase in ground clearance. While it is true that the frame is not raised, if your front and/or rear bumpers hang down low, these can limit the size of obstacle you can get up on or off of, so there is more to "ground clearance" than the height of the frame or axle above the ground.

What about wheel well liners or Gap Guards?

Another concern many people have about body lifts is the gap between the body and frame, most visible in the wheel wells. I run a set of Lift Lips on my 4Runner. They replace the stock plastic wheel well liners with a heavy rubber material and cover up to a 3" lift. Here's how I installed them on my truck. Not only do they fill the unattractive gap but they also help keep water and mud out of the engine compartment.

You can also obtain some material from a good hardware store and make your own. Use something like sheet rubber, pond liner, rubber roll roofing, sheet vinyl, etc. Remove the old wheel well liner and use it as a template for cutting the new liners. Draw a parallel line to the top, spaced down an amount equal to your lift. Then line the old liner up with the top of the sheet and trace the upper half. Then slide it down to the line you drew and trace the bottom half. Mark and punch out any mounting holes and you now have a copy of the liner that will cover the gap created by the body lift. Reattach it with the factory hardware. On vehicles where no liners exist from the factory, usually just a simple rectangular strip of material will suffice. Mark and drill some mounting holes and attach the liner to the lower lip of the wheel well.

As an alternative 4Crawler Offroad can supply the wheel well liner raw material. We offer oil resistant neoprene rubber sheets in two thicknesses; both standard 1/16" (1.5mm) thickness and a heavy duty 1/8" (3mm) thickness. Each sheet, typically enough for 1 wheel well, is sized 12" tall x 36" long (305mm x 914mm), cost is $20.00/sheet in 1/16" thickness and a fiber reinforced neoprene rubber sheet that is $30.00/sheet in the 1/16" thickness. That mateial is more resistant to tearing compared to the plain rubber. Separate shipping as noted here. To include with a body lift kit order, contact us for total shipping cost. Depending on the kit ordered and the shipping destination, there may be additional shipping cost involved.

To make a custom fit wheel well liner, remove the existing wheel well liner from the vehicle. Lay the top of the liner flush to the top of the material and trace the upper half. Also, mark all the hole locations for the mounting hardware. Then mark a few places where the bottom of the liner sits and then measure down an amount equal to the height of the body lift, for example 2", from those 2 points. Now slide the original wheel well liner down to those two new marks and trace the bottom half of the existing wheel well liner. Now use a pair of scissors to trim the top and bottom of the material to the lines you traced and punch holes for attaching the liner to the wheel wells. When making cuts, be sure to leave no sharp inside corners. Instead, try to leave about a 1" radius on all the corners to prevent tearing once the material is installed.

Note, on some vehicles, you may be able to cut two liners from one sheet, for example the rear wheel wells on a pickup or 4Runner as those liners are often just a straight piece.

Place an Order:

Since all our body lift kits are custom built to your exact needs, it is hard to make an easy order form. Feel free to contact 4Crawler Offroad with your vehicle specs (make, model, year) and your lift needs (tire size, clearance issues, etc.):

[ E-mail link for additional product information or to place an order ]

1. State, country or zip code needed for shipping/sales tax calculation:
2. Specify the make, model and year, cab style (regular, extra, double cab), 2WD/4WD and cab-only or full bed, various models require slightly different hardware
3. Questions?

Ordering/Payment options:

For the order buttons below, US shipping is added for the 2 left-most buttons, for the far right button, be sure to include shipping in the total Applicable sales tax will automatically be added with these 3 buttons.

We have chosen to make ordering a simple one-click process. Rather than having a shopping cart system where you may need to click on half a dozen "Add To Cart" and "Check Out" buttons to place your order, all you have to do is click on the one "Buy Now" button below and then enter a short description of what you want and how much those parts cost.

1. Add up the cost (in US $) of each item you want included in your body lift kit:
   1. Typical kit contents and totals are listed in the tables above
   2. Add 9.0% sales tax for shipments to a California address:
      1. Automatically added if using the Buy Now buttons below
      2. If you live outside of California, no sales tax applies
   3. For US addresses, $15.00 for uninsured or $18.00 for insured Priority Mail shipping via medium flat rate box:
      1. Or use one of the two "Buy Now" buttons below for pre-computed US shipping
      2. 2-3 day typical Priority Mail delivery time
   4. International shipping options:
      1. US Mail shipping to Canada/Mexico: US$50.95 for all the above kits
      2. US Priority Mail shipping to Europe/Central and South America: US$79.95 for most items
      3. US Priority Mail shipping to Asia/Australia/New Zealand:US$84.95 for most items
      4. For total weight up to 20 pounds
      5. Typical shipping time is 6-10 days
      6. Additional shipping and tracking information
      7. Currency conversion
2. Specify the make/model/year of the vehicle the parts are being ordered for

Purchase w/ uninsured US shipping - Adds US$15.00 shipping automatically	Purchase w/ insured US shipping - Adds US$18.00 shipping automatically	Purchase w/ other shipping option - Add custom shipping cost to order total

• Click here for an order form tutorial
• Via PayPal:
  • https://www.paypal.com/
    • Login, select: Send Money
    • Recipient = sales@4Crawler.com
      • Hint: Cut and paste this into the Recipient field
    • Enter Amount:
      • Be sure to include shipping and applicable sales tax in the total
    • Select Funds Source (e.g. checking account, credit or debit card)
      • Using an e-check results in a 3-4 day delay for the funds to clear Paypal
    • For Transaction Type, select: Goods, Non-Auction
    • Enter Subject/Note describing items desired
      • For example: 2" Body lift for 19xx Toyota 4WD Tacoma
    • In the Note To Seller field, enter any specific options you want in the order
      • For example: Kits: D+FB+SE+BS+RB
    • Check for correct shipping address and hit the "Send" button
      • If in doubt on the address, (or you want to use a different address) please include the address you want to use in the "NOTE TO SELLER" field when given the option above.
      • Double check the shipping address before hitting the "Send" button
    • Notes:
      • Company name will show up as "Visual Diagnostics/4Crawler Offroad"
      • Feel free to e-mail 4Crawler Offroad to let us know you issued the payment, although we automatically get an e-mail notification to this effect.
      • If you prefer, 4Crawler Offroad can issue a PayPal funds request/invoice as well
      • You should receive a confirmation e-mail from Paypal if the transaction was successful.
  • If you don't have a Paypal account, its easy to set one up using the link above, enter your name/address/e-mail and account info.
• Credit Card via fax/mail: FAX:+01.772.264.8458 or +1.408.564.0801
  • Supply the following information:
    • Name
    • Billing/Shipping address
    • Phone # and e-mail address
    • Credit Card number
    • Expiration Date
    • And the 3 or 4 digit security code on the back (or front) side of the card
• Via mail; certified check/money order payable to (US funds):
  • 4Crawler Offroad
  • Attn: Roger Brown
  • PO Box 61092
  • Sunnyvale, CA 94088-1092 USA
• Returns and exchanges
• Cancellation Policy

Visitor # 884580 since 13.AUG.2001

[Last updated: 07.July.2021]