Newbie alert... got some questions!

Hi people

New to the Jimny world, pick up my 2012 SZ3 next week to muck about in during winter while the m3 sits in the garage...

Im not to technically minded when it comes to cars and modifications, so please bare with me when i ask these questions, sorry if some across as dumb!

Ok, so i want to modify the Jimmy, want it fort general green laning and some other hill climbing that can be done in the area. Want to go down the big tyre route with a lift, but i want something that is great off-road but don't want to start hacking bumpers apart etc.

My questions are;

1) Is a 2" pro comp lift kit sufficient enough with a 235/75 tyres for not rubbing etc...

2) why do people get "body lifts"? what is the difference between say a 2" sping lift WITH a 2" body lift, and a jimmy with just a 4" spring lift? i see a few variations with what people do and i would just like to know if there is any particular reason?

I do realise when lifting up above 2" there is certain mods that need done to other parts so i am bearing that in mind if i do go for a bigger lift if needed.

I appreciate all help, i had more questions but i literally have went brain dead so i will post them all later!

Thanks

Hi mate,

Welcome along, from one m3 and Jimny owner to another . I too am new around here, but will have a crack at answering your questions. Someone will correct me if I'm wrong.

1. You might need a bigger lift or perhaps some arch cutting for those size wheels but not sure, it might depend on the tyre choice and wheel offset etc. This link is a good source www.bigjimny.com/index.php/forum?view=topic&catid=7&id=51978

2. Body lifts put space between the chassis and body so that you can fit larger tyres. This is where I get a bit confused because I'm not sure what the distinction is with a lift kit with shocks and springs. Pretty sure that neither will raise the axles though, only bigger wheels can do that.

From what I gather a 2" lift kit is likely to require you to get caster corrected radius arms fitted - I think this is to ensure the steering corrects itself.

HTH

Mark

You need a 3" lift for 235/75/15's but you will also need a Rocklobster transfer box or your gearing with be too high.

A body lift helps to create room for bigger tyres but does not give you any greater axle articulation.

Kirkynut

A lift on the suspension (shocks + springs) gives you:
- room for bigger tyres
- more clearance (between the axles)
- better approach and departure angles
- better flex

A body lift gives you:
- more space for the tyres
- better appr/dep. angles provided that you move the bumpers' mounting points accordingly

Thanks for your help people.

Still unsure of what to go for. Think maybes a 3" pro comp spring lift with a 2" body lift, and obviously all the parts that need replaced with the lift?

Also wheel spacers, am I right in thinking if I get some new wheels with a 30 offset, are they effectively just 30mm wheel space equivalent? Would they be recommended to give them jimny a slightly wider footprint fr better off road abilities?

I've seen some Jimnys with the tyres sticking out there arches, I don't want that as the Police around my way would be hot on stuff like that as I'm sure it's illegal so don't want to attract the wrong attention?

The lift will alter centre of gravity, so spacers/offset will help with that. You can get flexible arch extensions if needed.

I think I'm right in saying you'll need to uprate your CVs with your tyre choice too.