Hello everyone! I am looking for suggestions on the suspension for my 2003 Ford Ranger XLT FX4 Level II. I was recently told by a mechanic, that I need all new ball joints and control arms. Cost $700.00. I was planning on getting new suspension after I save enough money. I was wondering what suspension I should go with. I would like a 1" lift or so. Not too radical. If not than stock is fine. I would like to go with something a little better than stock suspension. Stock is bilstein. Unknown model of shocks. I figure if i have to replace the ball joints and control arms, I should replace the shocks in front and maybe the torsion bars and the shocks and leaf springs in the rear. Can't afford $thousands$. Any info on what to get and prices would be great. Thanks for your help.

 

There really is no 1" suspension lift. You could get a 4" superlift lift for about $1500 or just replace with stock parts and then crank your torsion bars up to get an inch.

 

For 4x4 the cheapest suspension lifts start at about $1500 and they are made by Superlift. They go up from there depending on the manufacturer.

What most of us do is install a Body Lift. They are 3 inch blocks that raise the body of your truck off the frame. They cost less than $300 and allow you to fit 33 inch tires.

https://www.ranger-forums.com/snapshots-69/pick-your-favorite-128104/

Here is a link with some pictures. Mine is the blue on with 295/75/16 (33 1/2 x 11.5) and my buddies silver truck with 33x12.50 tires. Both have 3 inch body lifts.

 

I was thinking about a body lift and keeping the stock height suspension. I have looked on various suspension companies websites and have not found an entire suspension kit unless I go with a 4" or bigger lift. Is there any manufacturers who make an entire suspension kit (ball joints, control arms, shocks, torsion bars, leafs), like bilstein, rancho, etc.? If not, then what would be my best option(s)? I would like something a little better than the original equipement. Thanks for any advice.