Lowered 4x4

[Franklin Jones]

Hey all!

Thought I’d share a project I just wrapped up.
Back in April i ordered a 3” lowering kit from X2 industries. Before you all hate on me, I’m on the wrong side of 40, my wife has chronic back problems, my kids are nearly grown, and I wanted something easier to get in and out of but the expy’s paid for.

Anyway, here’s the before shots:




And now the afters.



It doesn’t look that different, but it feels so much better getting in and out.

 

[BigOleFordFan]

Looks fine to me, refreshing to see someone go the opposite way from most others, but just be wary of hitting any significant bumps/potholes/speedjacks, or transporting anything weighing more than 100LBS or so

 

[gergnamenorg]

thanks for posting, looking to lower mine. have you had any tire rubbing? did you get struts with lower spring mounts? did you do install, how long? please share more... very interested in how it all works for you.

 

[Franklin Jones]

thanks for posting, looking to lower mine. have you had any tire rubbing? did you get struts with lower spring mounts? did you do install, how long? please share more... very interested in how it all works for you.

I went with the 3 inch complete kit from X2 Industries, which (I think) is just lower spring mounts, but don’t quote me on that.

Besides lengths to lower it 1, 2, or 3 inches, they also have versions either with or without springs. I didn’t feel like messing with spring compressors, so I got the kit with the springs.

Installation was pretty straightforward, lots of videos out there on replacing front and rear struts. Get everything out of the way, pop the ball joints and tie rod ends loose with a BFH, and unbolt the old. I too the effort to sand the rust and spray some quick Rustoleum on anything that was rusted, and also replaced my leaking front axle seals. I’d say depending on your speed and comfort level, doing this in the driveway on jacks would be 4-6 hours total for all four corners.

No tire rubbing, but damn if I don’t feel every. single. bump. and. pebble on the street. It’s worse in the back, not nearly as noticeable in the front.

I do need to take it in now for an alignment, but wanted to let it sit and settle for a week or two first.

Also, quick plug for X2- their customer service was great, even if we had a few miscommunications along the way. Very responsive, very knowledgeable. Shoot them and email and ask questions.

 

[Samuel Jewell]

Looks good! Nothing wrong with making it what you want, that's the whole purpose of vehicle mods!

 

[Drae]

Looks great! As soon as I move from flooding ass Houston to North of Dallas TX I'll lower my Gen 3. Here's my lowered 03 4x4. I kept the 2010 at stock height to make sure we had a vehicle that wouldn't have problems getting through water but surprisingly the 03 did well through high water. Just keep moving lol! I'm also 40+ and feels good getting in and out of the vehicle without needing the running boards.