Hi Everyone:

I know that this is probably a topic that has been chewed over and spit out about a zillion times, but I appreciate any help you can offer. I have a recently-acquired 2003 Ford Ranger Edge 3.0L 4x2 Stepside and I would like to ask a question regarding wheels/tires. I'm interested in putting on some better rubber, and I'd like to install 31's or 32's on my truck. I'm wondering...what components do I need (in terms of lift kits, level kits, etc), without breaking the bank. I have always wanted to 'do' up a Ranger, and this is the baby that is going to get the goods. I don't want to make a monster here, I just want to spice her up a bit. I just finished rebuilding a 1973 Dodge Dart and this Ranger is my next fun project.

Thanks in advance for any help you can offer.

Stay safe, Shawn



I can hear her calling....lol.

3.0L, 4x2 with overdrive

 

Because you have an Edge package with torsion bars, your truck has a higher stance than a Ranger with coil springs, so 31's should clear with no lift. 32's may require a small lift to prevent rubbing, but your only good options are a body lift, and a spindle lift.

 

Hi - thanks for the response. So, I'd be looking at both a body and spindle lift? What, exactly, is a spindle lift? Thanks, Shawn

 

No, it's either/or. Your choice. Spindle lift is in the link below. It brings the part that the wheels bearings ride on down further on the new steering knuckle, and that's what creates the lift. There's a difference between ones for coil spring trucks and torsion bar trucks, so make sure you buy the right ones if you choose to go that route.

Lift Spindles Ford Ranger Edge Sport 2wd 4" Front Suspension Kit Fits 2001-2010 | eBay

 

You could also possibly do both and run 35s.

 

If I remember correctly, the FX4 Level II package came with 31" tall tires from the factory. So you should have no problem with 31's.

 

Thanks for all that info. I'm guessing that with a 3" lift kit, I could actually go larger on my tires...

Shawn

 

With a 3" lift on an edge, 33s are easy and 35s can even be fit if your offset is correct and then just minor trimming to the lower valance.