What is a 4wd body lift?
A 4wd body lift is a modification that raises the body of a vehicle higher off the chassis without altering the suspension. Body lift kits are commonly fitted to 4WDs, utes, and other ladder chassis vehicles to provide additional clearance for larger tyres, improve approach angles, and create extra space under the guards.
Unlike a suspension lift, a body lift does not raise the axles or differential heights. Instead, it increases the distance between the vehicle's body and chassis by installing specially engineered lift blocks between the factory body mounts.
How Does a Body Lift Work?
A body lift kit is installed between the vehicle's body and the original rubber body mounts. The factory rubber mounts remain in place and continue to absorb vibration and movement, while the lift blocks provide the additional height.
A quality body lift kit will typically include:
- CNC machined solid lift blocks
- High-tensile replacement bolts
- Steering shaft extension (where required)
- Radiator drop brackets or relocation components (vehicle dependent)
- Gear lever extensions or shifter modifications (where required)
- Other vehicle-specific hardware and fittings
The exact components vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
What Are the Benefits of a Body Lift?
A body lift is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve the capability of a 4WD.
Some of the main benefits include:
- Minimal effect on steering and suspension geometry
- Retain drive line / CV angles (Important for Independent front suspension vehicles)
- Improved approach and departure angles
- Lifting the lightest part of the vehicle, so keeps center of gravity low.
- Maintains factory suspension ride quality
- Less expensive than many suspension lift options
- Increased clearance for larger tyres
For many vehicles, especially those with independent front suspension (IFS), a body lift is often a better solution than excessive suspension lift. Large suspension lifts can increase CV joint angles, accelerate wear, and place additional stress on driveline components. A body lift avoids these issues while still creating room for larger tyres.
Is a Body Lift Better Than a Suspension Lift?
Body lifts and suspension lifts serve different purposes.
A body lift creates space for larger tyres and improves body clearance without changing suspension geometry or having great effect on the center of gravity.
A suspension lift increases the height of the chassis, axles, and differential clearance while improving wheel travel. However, suspension lifts are generally more expensive and can require additional modifications.
Many serious off-road vehicles use a combination of both to achieve the best balance of ground clearance, tyre clearance, and suspension performance.
Are Body Lifts Safe?
When installed correctly using a quality kit designed specifically for your vehicle, a body lift is a safe and proven modification that has been used by 4WD owners for decades.
At Flatout Offroad, our body lift kits are designed and manufactured in New Zealand using quality materials and are engineered to meet LVV certification requirements where applicable. This helps ensure your vehicle can be certified for legal road use in New Zealand.
Looking for a Body Lift Kit?
Flatout Offroad manufactures and supplies high-quality body lift kits for a wide range of Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, Suzuki, Ford, Mazda, Holden, Daihatsu and other popular 4WD vehicles.
If you're unsure which kit you need or have any questions about body lifts, get in touch. Our team is happy to help you choose the right solution for your vehicle.