Key Takeaways:
- Two Lifts, Two Different Benefits: Suspension lifts enhance clearance, articulation, and trail comfort, while body lifts provide a straightforward height gain without altering the factory suspension geometry.
- Fitment and Stance Depend on Lift Choice: Your preferred tire size, ride height, and overall stance will influence whether a suspension lift or body lift creates the look and performance you want.
- Bronco Goals Shape the Best Option: Adventure builds often favor suspension lifts, while restoration and mild-use Broncos benefit from body lifts that preserve original handling and feel.
Some enthusiasts want more ground clearance and smoother trail performance. Others wish to have room for slightly larger tires without altering the Bronco’s classic road feel. Understanding how each lift works, its impact on drivability, and which benefits matter most makes it easier to choose a lift that matches your build’s purpose.
At TOMS OFFROAD, we know how much the right lift can transform an Early Bronco. Since 1976, we have helped enthusiasts build, restore, and upgrade their Classic Broncos with parts that fit correctly and withstand real-world use. When it comes to lifting a Bronco, the two most common choices are a suspension lift and a body lift. Both raise the vehicle, but each one changes the Bronco in different ways.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between suspension lifts and body lifts, explain how each lift affects stance and fitment, and outline how to pick the lift that supports the way you use your Early Bronco.
Understanding The Difference Between Suspension Lifts And Body Lifts
Before choosing a lift for your Early Bronco, it helps to understand body lift vs suspension lift differences. Each one raises the vehicle differently, and understanding these details will guide you toward the setup that supports your driving style and restoration goals. For owners planning a smoother on-road feel after lifting, our guide on everything you need to know about upgrading your 1966-1977 Ford Bronco for a smoother ride is a critical resource.
How A Suspension Lift Raises The Entire Bronco
A suspension lift increases height by extending the distance between the frame and the axles. This is achieved by replacing or upgrading parts such as springs, shocks, and supporting components. Because the frame sits higher, the Bronco gains additional ground clearance and more room for suspension travel. These changes help the Bronco move over uneven terrain with greater control.
How A Body Lift Raises Only The Body
A body lift increases height by adding spacers between the body and the frame. This keeps the suspension and axles in their factory positions, while providing extra space above the tires. A body lift is a straightforward way to achieve moderate elevation without altering the suspension's behaviour. Many enthusiasts choose this option for mild builds or budget-friendly upgrades.
Mechanical Changes That Affect Drivability
Suspension lifts change the angles of steering, track bar alignment, and driveline connections. These changes can enhance off-road capability but may necessitate adjustments or upgraded components. Body lifts do not alter suspension angles, but they can affect shifter positions, body mounts, and the alignment of the body with the frame. Understanding these differences helps you plan for the proper modifications.
Impact On Ride Quality And Handling
A suspension lift can enhance comfort and control on rough trails, thanks to increased travel and improved damping. A body lift maintains the ride's close-to-factory feel, as the suspension remains unchanged. How your Bronco handles bumps, curves, and uneven terrain depends on which method you choose and what type of driving you prefer.
When Enthusiasts Choose One Lift Over The Other
Suspension lifts are popular for adventure builds that need more clearance and articulation. Body lifts appeal to restoration-minded owners who want extra tire room without changing the Bronco’s stock suspension geometry. Knowing your priorities helps you choose the lift that matches your vision for your Classic Bronco. As you plan your build, browsing trusted Ford Bronco aftermarket parts can help you effectively coordinate supporting components.
Benefits Of Suspension Lifts And Body Lifts For An Early Bronco
Both suspension lifts and body lifts offer unique advantages depending on how you use your Early Bronco. Understanding what each option provides will help you decide which lift supports your driving style and long-term build plan.
Benefits Of A Suspension Lift For Trail Performance
A suspension lift increases the distance between the frame and the axles, giving your Bronco more room to navigate rough terrain. The added travel allows the suspension to move freely over rocks, ruts, and uneven ground. This improved articulation makes trail riding feel more controlled and adds confidence when approaching sharper obstacles or challenging routes.
How Suspension Lifts Improve Ground Clearance
Raising the suspension increases the space beneath the Bronco, which helps avoid contact with rocks, stumps, and trail debris. More clearance also improves approach, breakover, and departure angles. This helps keep the undercarriage protected and reduces the risk of damaging critical components during off-road adventures.
Why Body Lifts Are A Cost-Effective Height Option
Body lifts raise the body without changing the suspension geometry, making them a more straightforward and more budget-friendly way to add height. They provide enough room for slightly larger tires and maintain the Bronco’s original ride feel. For enthusiasts who appreciate the classic handling characteristics, a body lift provides height without requiring significant mechanical modifications.
Body Lifts Preserve Factory Suspension Feel
Since a body lift does not alter springs, shocks, or steering angles, the Bronco retains its factory comfort and road manners. This makes body lifts appealing for restoration builds or weekend use, where preserving the original feel of the Classic Bronco is a priority. It is also an excellent choice for owners who prefer predictable handling. For more inspiration, our must-have upgrades for classic Broncos guide highlights complementary improvements that pair well with either lift type.
Which Lift Matches Your Driving Style
Suspension lifts suit enthusiasts who spend more time exploring trails or want a more capable off-road setup. Body lifts are well-suited for those who wish to enhance their stance and gain extra tire clearance without altering the Bronco’s original characteristics. Choosing between the two comes down to how you use your Bronco and the type of driving experience you prefer.
How Each Lift Affects Tire Size, Stance, And Fitment
Choosing between a suspension lift and a body lift becomes easier once you understand how each option affects tire clearance, stance, and overall fitment on an Early Bronco. These differences shape the final look and performance of your build.
Tire Clearance Changes With Suspension Lifts
Suspension lifts create extra space between the frame and the ground, allowing for larger tires to be fitted without rubbing. This added clearance enables the tires to move through full suspension travel, especially on uneven terrain. With more space at the wheel wells, a suspension lift supports aggressive tire sizes that match adventure-focused builds.
How Body Lifts Create Room Above The Tires
Body lifts raise the body off the frame, adding space between the wheel wells and the tires. This increase is beneficial for moderate tire upgrades without requiring changes to the suspension. While body lifts do not increase under-axle clearance, they provide enough room for slightly larger tires on a Classic Bronco that still runs mostly stock geometry.
How Lift Height Affects Stance And Bronco Profile
Suspension lifts give the Bronco a taller, more commanding stance that reflects an off-road-ready look. This height alters the visual profile, making the Bronco appear more capable on more challenging terrain. Body lifts offer a more subtle height change, helping the Bronco retain its classic proportions while gaining just enough space for improved fitment.
Turn Radius And Rubbing Concerns
Larger tires can rub on inner fenders or suspension components if the lift height is not matched correctly. Suspension lifts reduce this risk by raising the entire vehicle, while body lifts only add space above the tires. Understanding how your chosen lift affects steering angles helps you pick a tire size that turns freely without contact.
Matching Lift Choice To Wheel And Tire Upgrades
If your build includes wider wheels or tires with deeper tread patterns, a suspension lift often provides the clearance needed for proper fitment. For mild tire upgrades, a body lift may be enough to create clean spacing. Matching the lift type to your wheel and tire plans ensures the Bronco sits correctly and performs as expected.
Toms Offroad Lift Options For Early Broncos
We offer lift options specifically designed for the 1966-1977 Ford Bronco. Each kit is built to match factory fitment while supporting the way enthusiasts drive, restore, and enjoy their Classic Broncos.
Suspension Lift Kits For Trail And Adventure Builds
Our suspension lift kits raise the frame and increase travel, making them ideal for Broncos that see regular trail use. These kits include upgraded coils, leaf springs, and shocks designed to enhance comfort and control on uneven terrain. A suspension lift supports larger tires, creating the added clearance needed for off-road adventures.
Body Lift Kits Built For Factory-Style Alignment
A body lift increases height by spacing the body away from the frame. Our body lift kits utilize strong body mount bushings and high-quality hardware to ensure the body remains properly aligned. This option allows you to fit slightly larger tires without altering the Bronco’s factory suspension geometry. It is a reliable and straightforward way to gain extra room while preserving the original ride feel.
Supporting Components That Improve Lift Performance
Any lift benefits from stronger supporting parts. Items like track bars, upgraded bushings, and heavy-duty hardware help keep your lifted Bronco aligned and responsive. These parts maintain proper steering angles and contribute to smooth handling after installing either type of lift.
Shocks And Springs Designed For Classic Broncos
Shocks and springs determine how your Bronco reacts to bumps, corners, and uneven trails. We offer shocks specifically tuned for Classic Bronco weight and springs, providing consistent height and control. Pairing the right springs and shocks with your lift choice improves both comfort and stability on the road or trail.
Lift Kits That Maintain The Bronco’s Heritage Look
Many enthusiasts want improved capability without losing the classic Bronco stance. Our lift kits are designed to raise the vehicle smoothly while maintaining the original proportions. Whether you choose a mild body lift or a more capable suspension lift, each option blends performance with the heritage look Early Bronco owners value.
Choosing The Right Lift For Your Early Bronco Build
Selecting the right lift depends on how you use your Early Bronco and the stance, comfort, and capability you want from your build.
- Define Your Build Purpose: Determine whether your Bronco will be used for restoration, off-roading, daily driving, or weekend adventures. Your primary goal guides the lift choice.
- Consider Ride Comfort And Handling: Suspension lifts enhance articulation and off-road ride quality, while body lifts preserve the factory geometry and maintain the Bronco’s original road feel.
- Review Your Tire Size Plans: Bigger tires typically pair better with suspension lifts, while moderate tire upgrades complement body lifts, providing clean spacing without major changes.
- Evaluate Budget And Installation Effort: Body lifts are simpler and more affordable. Suspension lifts require more components and setup, so understanding your budget helps refine your choice.
- Combine Both Lifts When It Makes Sense: A small suspension lift paired with a mild body lift creates balanced clearance and stance for builds that need a bit more height without going extreme.
Choosing the right lift is all about aligning your Bronco’s purpose with the lift style that complements it. When your lift matches your goals, the Bronco performs better and retains its classic character.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a suspension lift and a body lift comes down to how you plan to enjoy your Early Bronco. A suspension lift provides higher clearance, improved articulation, and enhanced off-road comfort, making it ideal for adventure-focused builds. A body lift keeps the Bronco’s original suspension geometry while giving you the tire room and stance changes you need for restoration or mild weekend use.
At TOMS OFFROAD, we have seen both lift types play an essential role in Classic Bronco builds. When your lift choice aligns with your goals, the Bronco performs better, looks cleaner, and stays true to the spirit of the original design. No matter which route you take, a well-planned lift brings out the best in your Bronco and keeps it ready for every mile ahead.
Read Also:
- Bronco Wheels
- How Much Can A Ford Bronco Tow? Complete Towing Guide By Year
- Bronco Restoration 101: Everything You Need To Bring Your Classic Back To Life
Frequently Asked Questions About Suspension Lift Vs Body Lift
What is the main difference between a suspension lift and a body lift?
A suspension lift raises the frame and increases travel, whereas a body lift raises only the body, leaving the suspension geometry unchanged.
Which lift is better for off-road use?
Suspension lifts are a better choice for trail driving because they improve ground clearance, articulation, and ride quality on rough terrain.
Is a body lift easier to install on an Early Bronco?
Yes. Body lifts involve fewer components and are generally simpler, making them a good option for budget-friendly or DIY upgrades.
Will a suspension lift allow for larger tires?
Yes. A suspension lift creates more clearance for larger tire sizes and supports more aggressive off-road setups.
Does a body lift affect ride quality?
No. A body lift keeps the suspension unchanged, so the Bronco retains its original ride feel and handling characteristics.
Can I combine a body lift with a suspension lift?
Yes. Many enthusiasts opt for a small body lift combined with a mild suspension lift to achieve a balanced clearance and stance without compromising too much height.
