Hey guys I'm new to the forum and seeking advice about lift kits and tires on my 1998 1500 4x4 5.9. I recently bought my truck at a really good price and still have some wiggle room in my budget, so I want to lift it. What's the biggest size of a tire will fit in on my truck with a 5'' lift while still having good suspension travel? Or what size a lift and tire do y'all recommend? Lastly, what engine mods do you guys recommend?

Thanks, Grayson.

 

Welcome and congratulations!

How many miles on everything should really tell you where to spend money, but there are general items known for these trucks.

Take some time and read around this forum for ideas. There's a lot of knowledge here over twenty plus years. Basic issues: proper tune up, plenum gasket, dash, steering, auto trans.

As for lift: 3" with 33s, 5" with 35s, 7" 37s. Anything over 285s you'll really need gears which are more than the truck cost probably. Anything over 35s the axles should be upgraded or get a 2500.

 

As mentioned do some research on the common problem areas before doing any mods. Depending on where you are rusting out of the brake lines in the rear is a major one. I have two second gens and both had this issue. Use the "search this forum" at the top.

 

 

My truck has a skid plate under the transfer case. Does that mean It has the off road package? If so does that mean it has the 4.10 gears? If I get a 5'' lift would I have to change any steering components or the drive shaft length?

 

No, but it means you have the tow package at least. Offroads are easy to identify: tailgate badging, red shocks, 2" lift and gusseted front diff. Look up some pics and you'll figure it out.

 

Off road package wasn't available until 2000, or 01.

 

Doh, forgot he had a 98. Yes, 2000-01 only.