[LUV24BY]

I am in the process of searching the "net" for the best Fab-Tech Performance 5.5 Lift. I have a 1997 Ram 1500 CC SB 4x4 "Sport." It's all stock now, but I am looking for the 5.5 "System" and not the "kit." The average price I have found is about $1300 - $1400. I don't have enough to get the dual shock set-up. I was wondering who (through y'all) is running a Fab-Tech 5.5 lift and where did you get it? How much? I only have enough to do the lift, tires and possibly a stereo. Any susgestions and help would be benificial. Also, I am planning on putting in the lift myself - have any of you done your own Fab-Tech install? What problems if any did you have?
Thanks so much for your time!
LUV24BY
(John)

P.S - I will post before and after pictures on this god-send of a web-site!

 

[LUV24BY]

You know, if your checking this Forum out - I am not just looking for price suggestions - any information on the Fab-Tech lift itself would be appreciated too. I kinda went back and looked at my original posting and noticed I seemed a bit "shallow," being mostly concerned about the price and all - I didn't realize it. I was hoping just for feedback about the product itself. <IMG SRC="/board/images/smilies/icon_eek.gif">)

LUV24BY
(John)

 

[LUV24BY]

Welp, I appreciate all the views, however I have decided to go with a FabTech 5.5 and found a good price on it. I hope to get some pictures done while we're doing the install, and if Jason will allow - I will post as much as possible on any issues I had. Wish me luck! I figured I have the money avaliable so I would prefer to put it into a well reputationed company!
Thanks!
LUV24BY

 

[Bill_L]

Have you looked at the info on their web site? I think that you have to do some welding so it isnt just a bolt on kit. I think I also saw something about modifications to the front drive shaft.

I am not saying that there is anything wrong with this kit. I have looked at them and they look good but with issues like that I decided to stay away.

 

[LUV24BY]

Bill,
Actually I was planning on having the FRT & Rear driveshafts checked locally by a company called "Dick's Driveshaft." I want to make sure I am not over extending when articulating. I know of 2 major things that need to be done: 1. The bottom Link arm is actually attached to the transfer case & Transmission crossmember. If you look at the picture on the fabtech website (link - http://www.fabtechmotorsports.com/dodge/ram_4wd/ram_4wd.html ), the piece between the coil and longer link arm is what attaches the said link arm to the crossmember & frame. It requires 6 holes be drilled and then there are 2 plates provided in the kit that need to cover the factory lower link arm mount, they must be welded. I have spoken to someone who said it's fairly easy to install with some mechanical understanding. I have the availbility of air tools and a buddy who welds for a living. HE's helping with the welding and I am doing the wrenching....I will let y'all know if I am forgetting anything. I hope others might learn from my mistakes (and I will be the first to admit if I took on something way too tough!!!)

LUV24BY
(Keeping his fingers crossed!!) <IMG SRC="/board/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif">

 

[JasonB]

LUV24BY -

Instead of posting everything here, you can provide me with your writeup and some digital images and Ican add the write up to my Truck Tech section (much faster loading than the board anyway). I will give you full credit, just like I did for Troy on his Jacobs install.

 

[LUV24BY]

Jason,
Yes, when it came down to it I was considering asking for the approriate area to post the install. I am interested in the install you did on your Dodge and the write up that followed. I was just looking into the in's & out's of the upcoming install. I thought I could get as much info through the forums as possible before I began! As you can see I am a fairly active poster and enjoy the discussions at hand, I hope to absorb alot and offer just as much!
I thank you for the opportunity to be part of the Tech Section and don't necessarily have to be noticed as the sole creditable source, just a guy who put a lift on his truck!!
Thanks!
LUV24BY

_________________
My Project:
1997 Dodge Ram 1500 CC SB 4x4 "Sport"
360ci V-8, Auto, 3.55 Limited Slip
5.5" Fab-Tech Performance Lift w/ 4.5" rear leaf springs & Dual Shocks up front
35x12.50x15 Goodyear MT/R's on Centerline 15x10's