💬 Lift Kits, Suspension & Off-Road FAQ

Got questions about lifting your truck or upgrading your suspension? Here are answers to the most common questions we get at Underdog Motorsports in Mesa, Arizona.

We work on a wide range of vehicles including Tacoma, 4Runner, Tundra, F-150, Silverado, Sierra, RAM, Bronco, Jeep, and more.

🔧 Lift Kits & Suspension

Do I need UCAs with a 3-inch lift?

Yes, in most cases we recommend aftermarket upper control arms (UCAs) for lifts around 3 inches. They help maintain proper alignment and suspension geometry across many platforms including Tacoma, 4Runner, and other IFS vehicles.

What’s the best lift kit for my truck?

It depends on your vehicle and how you use it.

• Daily drivers: Bilstein 5100s or Eibach

• Balanced performance: Bilstein 6112, FOX 2.0

• High performance/off-road: FOX 2.5, KING, ICON, ADS

We’ll help you choose the right setup based on your goals.

How much does it cost to lift a truck or SUV?

Costs vary depending on the vehicle and suspension system. Entry-level setups are more budget-friendly, while high-performance systems like FOX, KING, or ADS are a larger investment.

How long does a lift install take?

Most lift kit installations take 4–8 hours, depending on the vehicle and complexity of the setup.

Will a lift kit affect ride quality?

Yes—but in a good way if done right. Many upgraded suspension systems actually ride better than stock, especially on rough roads and off-road terrain.

🚙 Wheels, Tires & Fitment

What size tires can I run with a lift?

This depends on the vehicle and lift height:

• Many trucks can fit 33” tires with a 2–3” lift

• Some platforms can fit 35s with proper setup and trimming

We can help dial in the right fitment.

Do I need new wheels with a lift?

Not always, but wheel offset plays a big role in stance and clearance.

What offset gives a flush look?

Most setups use offsets between 0 and -12 for a more aggressive, flush stance depending on the vehicle.

🔊 Common Issues (Multiple Platforms)

What is the Tacoma needle bearing issue?

A common Tacoma problem where the front differential needle bearing wears out and causes vibration or humming. We fix this with an ECGS bushing.

Do lifted trucks wear parts faster?

They can if not set up properly. That’s why proper parts selection and installation matter.

Will lifting my truck affect MPG?

Yes, larger tires and added weight can reduce fuel economy slightly.

⚙️ Installation & Service

Do I need an alignment after a lift?

Yes—an alignment is required after any suspension modification.

Can I bring my own parts for install?

Yes, we can install customer-supplied parts. We’ll just want to review them first.

Do you offer full builds or just installs?

We do both—from simple installs to full suspension and off-road builds.

📍 Serving Mesa, AZ & Surrounding Areas

Underdog Motorsports proudly serves:
Mesa, Phoenix, Gilbert, Chandler, Scottsdale, and the greater Arizona off-road community.

📞 Still Have Questions?

Every vehicle and build is different. If you’re not sure what setup is right for you, we’re here to help.

👉 Contact Underdog Motorsports for a quote or stop by the shop in Mesa, AZ