New OR-Fab Full-Width Bumpers Offer A Sleek Style With Optimum Protection

OR-Fab’s new full-width front bumper for 2007-present model Jeep JK Wranglers combines a sleek appearance with optimum trail protection. Manufactured in the U.S.A, from 3/16-inch steel plate, the bumper features two heavy-duty D-ring mounts, and integrated pockets for the OEM driving lights. This high-quality, hand-welded bumper is precision laser cut and CNC press brake formed to create a strong, tapered-angle design that easily slides off rocks and ledges. It also clears larger diameter tires, up to 37-inches, and allows for greater approach angles.

The new OR-Fab bumper easily installs into the vehicle’s factory bumper mounts without any cutting or drilling, and is available for a variety of winch applications. OR-Fab PN 83238 fits integrated center-mount winches, and PN 83237 fits off-set PowerPlant winches. The bumper is also available for top-mount winches, PN 83236 that includes a fairlead. It’s also available without a fairlead, PN 83235, but an OR-Fab fairlead PN 87050 can be added without any drilling. All of the bumpers feature a heavy-duty, wrinkle black powder coat finish and come with installation hardware and two D-rings. For more information, contact OR-Fab P.O. Box 3450, Chino Valley, AZ 86323. Visit them online at www.ORFab.com.

Premium Lift System Available For '09 thru 2013 Ford F-150 Pickups

Performance Accessories' Premium Lift System for the Ford F-150, fits '09 thru 2013 model, 2WD and 4WD trucks; equipped with 5.0L, 5.4L and 6.2L V-8 engines. The system (PN PLS709) is one of the company's most popular, as it allows the vehicle to run up to 35-inch diameter tires without affecting the factory ride, traction controls, or warranty. At a retail price less than $850, the Performance Accessory Premium Lift System combines a leveling kit and body-lift to add up to five-inches of lift.

Ford F-150 Leveling
The leveling portion of the system uses aluminum upper coil spring spacers and polyurethane intermediate spacers in the front strut assembly. Using two spacers instead of one, prevents excessive suspension wear by allowing the factory components like ball-joints and CV shafts to operate within the operating range of motion they were designed for. In addition, the spacers prevent over-lengthening the strut assembly so that there is no contact with upper A-arms at full suspension droop, and to eliminate excessive spring pre-load which leads to a harsher ride.

Ford F-150 Body-Lift
The body-lift portion of the Premium Lift System uses Performance Accessories' nylon-reinforced body blocks, precision laser cut and CNC press-brake bent steel bumper brackets, high-grade hardware, and a CNC machined steering extension. Body-lifts may seem old fashioned, but when you consider that there's no need to disassemble the factory suspension, or make modifications to drop the suspension and/or transfer case, the body-lift method changes less on the vehicle. Since there are no alterations to the vehicle's suspension, electronic stability controls, traction controls and the factory warranty, are not affected.

The one complaint on body-lifts is the gap between the body and frame that's visible within the vehicle's wheel wells. So Performance Accessories includes their urethane wheel well Gap Guards, that conceal the space, and provides additional protection against water, mud and debris from getting into the engine compartment.

The F-150 Premium Lift System is made in the U.S.A, and takes about 6-8 hours to install. For more information, contact Performance Accessories, P.O. Box 3450. Chino Valley, AZ 86323, (928) 636-7080. Or visit them on the web at www.performanceaccessories.com.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Complete Installation Instructions

YouTube Video

Performance Accessories Premium Lift System For 2013 GM 1500 Series Pickups

2013 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup truck owners can inexpensively lift their vehicles with Performance Accessories Premium Lift Kit. This unique system raises the vehicle up to five inches, to accommodate up to a 35-inch diameter tire, but without affecting the factory suspension or electronic stability control functions.

Not everyone wants to completely alter their vehicle with an aftermarket full-suspension lift kit. So manufacturers like Performance Accessories developed a unique system that combines a leveling kit with a body-lift that is reliable, and is a fraction of the cost of purchasing and installing a full suspension lift kit.

At a retail price less than $715, the Premium Lift System, (PN-PLS109), fits 2007-2013,1500 series, 2wd and 4wd models. This unique combination provides exceptional reliability, no warranty issues, higher ground clearance, and improved off-road performance with larger diameter tires.

The Premium Lift System comes with reinforced nylon body blocks, high-grade hardware, billet front spring spacers and a CNC machined steering extension. It also includes black powder coated mounting hardware, and a set of urethane Gap Guards to conceal the space between the frame and body.

"Body lifts lend themselves very well to late-model pickup trucks," says Chris Faustmann, R&D manager for Performance Accessories. "With a body-lift, there's no need to relocate the differential, add new springs, shocks, and control arms like you do with a full suspension lift. When combined with our unique dual spacer, coil-spring leveling kit, we are able to keep the vehicle's suspension components like ball-joints, within their proper range of operation. Our system also prevents excessive spring pre-load and maintains the smooth factory ride truck owners have become accustomed to."

For more information on this lift system or any of Performance Accessories products that are all made in the U.S.A, contact, Performance Accessories, P.O. Box 3450, Chino Valley, Arizona 86323. Or visit them on the web at www.performanceaccessories.com. 
By, DS Media Relations


Additional Resources:

OR-Fab Rock Doors Available For 2012 Jeep JK Wrangler And Wrangler Unlimited

OR-Fab rock doors for the 2007 to 2012 Jeep JK Wrangler provide a safe and reliable way to enjoy your trail ride. Manufactured in the U.S., the doors are made from 1-1/4 inch, .095 thick steel tubing with full-loop construction for superior strength. The doors, (front PN-88002, rear PN-88003), come with OR FAB’s exclusive “Geko” Nylon safety pad that includes a zippered carrying pouch. Available in either gloss or wrinkled black powder coat, they feature adjustable hinges and latches for a perfect fit.

You can also attach your Jeep’s factory mirrors to OR-Fab Rock Doors with OR-Fab’s Mirror Mounts, (PN-87025), to increase your safety and visibility when you head from the trail, back onto the street. For more information, contact OR-Fab,  P.O. Box 3450, Chino Valley, AZ 86323, (928) 636-7080. Or visit them on the web at www.orfab.com,

How to install an OR-Fab Jeep XJ Rear Tube Bumper

Jeep XJ Cherokees have been a popular vehicle for both outdoor enthusiasts, as well as hard-core rock crawlers. For those serious about taking their XJ’s on the trail it’s common to replace the XJ’s front bumper with one that can withstand a few impacts, as well as carry a heavy-duty winch.   But the rear factory bumper is also a component that can see severe trail damage when coming off a ledge or large rock. Steep departure angles can not only mangle the XJ’s rear bumper, but also cause serious damage to the tailgate and rear quarters.

Because many XJ owners have wanted a strong, yet light weight rear bumper, manufacturers like OR-Fab have come up with a tubular-style bumper that provides the added trail protection XJ owners want, but without adding lots of weight or bulk. OR-Fab’s XJ rear tube bumper, PN-83209, is made from two-inch, .120-wall steel tubing that is strong enough to protect the bottom of the rear rocker panel and tailgate. But because it is also a wrap-around design, it also protects the lower quarters and offers a sturdy platform for recovery and placement for a Hi-Lift Jack.

The bumper installs in the factory location, using the original bumper holes and new heavy-duty bumper brackets. On some XJs that don’t use the same bumper mount brackets as earlier models, you’ll need to drill 1/2-inch holes to attach the OR-Fab brackets. These models typically have bottom bolts and top bolts that secure the bumper to the uni-frame. To give additional support to the OR-Fab bumper, the kit comes with 1/4-inch straps that anchor it to the hitch mount. This ensures a solid connection that won’t vibrate or distort under load.

Once installed, you can see that the OR-Fab bumper tucks in close to the XJ’s body and protects the bottom rear quarters. The bumper was originally designed to be used with a factory hitch but it can be used with aftermarket hitches with some minor modifications. For more information, visit www.orfab.com.
Text and photos by DS Media Relations.

Installation Photos

On 1984-2001 models  reach behind the bumper and remove the eight bolts, four on each side, of the center section bumper brackets. The bumper can then be lifted away.

On 97-and some later models,  there are side brackets that must be removed. Start by unbolting the bottom  corner bolts, then lift up the corners to remove them. This will give you access to drill out the bracket rivets with a 1/4 inch drill bit.

Here’s what the rear of the bumper looks like after it’s removed.

The bumper kit comes with new bumper brackets and the hardware provided. These include bolts, nut inserts and anchor straps. On some models you may have to drill 1/2-inch holes to bolt the brackets into the frame.

The anchor straps connect the brackets to the underside of the frame.

The OR-Fab XJ rear tube bumper comes in three sections. These must be bolted together using the hardware in the kit.

The bumper is light enough for you to lift and place it into position onto the new OR-Fab brackets.

Using the new hardware provided in the kit, the bumper is bolted to the brackets.

The finishing touch is to attach the D-rings that are also provided in the kit.

Truck Owners Wanting Larger Tires Continues To Increase Aftermarket Sales

According to the latest research from the Specialty Equipment Market Association, wheels, tires and suspensions are the second largest segment of aftermarket retail sales behind accessory and appearance products. Totaling more than 10.33-billion in annual retail sales (2011), this segment continues to grow and is sparked by the continued increase in light-duty pickup truck sales, according to the latest Ward reports.

Premium Lift Systems include a body-lift, leveling kit and urethane Gap Guards.

While the trend is a good sign, off-road and truck accessory retailers also see the growing number of truck owners who want to add larger wheels and tires to their vehicles, but don't have the budget for a full-suspension system. This is one of the reasons why the popularity of Performance Accessories Premium Lift Systems has increased in recent years.

For the truck owner, the Premium Lift System allows their vehicle to run 33-35 inch diameter tires, and obtain the appearance they want within a budget they can afford. Because the Premium Lift System consists of a body-lift and leveling kit, there are no major suspension modifications that can cause warranty issues when the vehicle is taken to the dealer for service. In addition, truck owners can enjoy greater ground clearance and increased off-road capabilities, without sacrificing the smooth factory ride.

For truck accessory retailers and 4x4 shops, Premium Lift Systems fill the gap for a customer who wants more than two-inch leveling kit, but can't afford a full suspension system. Because Premium Lift Systems start around $220 and up, it also allows retailers the opportunity to outfit their customers with a lift, wheels, and tires, to give them a complete package in one visit. 

Thanks to the way late-model vehicle are assembled at the factory, it's much easier to install a body-lift onto a late-model than it was in the past.

While installation of a Premium Lift System can take 8-10 hours, it doesn't require any special tools.The vehicle simply needs to be lifted and supported with jack-stands. The body-lift portion of the kit is much easier to install on late-model trucks and sport utility vehicles, due to the method they are assembled at the factory. The body and chassis are typically assembled separately, before they are bolted together with the body mounts. This makes it much easier to install a body-lift by supporting the vehicle's frame, unbolting the body mounts, and lifting the section of the body off the frame at each body mount, to insert the nylon reinforced, three-inch body blocks.

The leveling kit portion of the system is also designed to provide proper steering and suspension geometry. Depending on the vehicle make and model, most Premium Lift Systems will utilize coil spring spacers and a top strut spacer. The two spacers divide the lift in the front, and limit coil spring pre-load to keep the smooth ride, as well as limit the overall lengthening of the coil and strut assembly. This keeps the ball joint and/or CV-joint angles within factory specifications, when the suspension is under full compression or extension. Urethane Gap Guards are also included to hide the space visible within the vehicle's wheel wells, and give it a finished appearance.

A top strut spacer and coil spring spacer are used to maintain the vehicle's correct geometry on suspension components like ball-joints and CV joints. It also keeps the ride smooth with the factory coil spring.

Along with adding precision laser cut steel bumper brackets, a CNC machined steering shaft extension and other detailed items that make these kits complete, most wont be able to tell the difference between a truck lifted with a Performance Accessories Premium Lift System and a full-suspension lift kit. But the advantages for people who simply want to run larger tires with the Premium Lift System versus a full-suspension kit, are more than just the cost. Trucks lifted with a Premium Lift System retain the vehicle's full turning radius, don't require any pinion angle adjustments, and have no issues with Electronic Stability Control systems.

Premium Lift Systems definitely won't provide the increased articulation, axle control and traction over difficult train like a full-suspension system will, it can increase the capabilities of the factory suspension and provide a growing number of truck owners the ability to achieve the look they want at a price they can afford. Premium Lift Systems are available for a wide variety of vehicle makes, models and years. For more information, visit www.performanceaccessories.com.


By DS Media Relations

OR-Fab's New Jeep XJ Cherokee Test Vehicle

Jeep owners know that their vehicles are more than a means of transportation. That’s why older Jeeps like the XJ Cherokee, are as popular as some sixties muscle cars. The difference however, is that Jeep XJ owners aren’t afraid to get their vehicles dirty. That's why you often see them modified for extreme trail use. This is one of the reasons why Chris Faustmann, who manages the research and development for Performance Automotive Group, bought and built-up a 1996 Jeep Cherokee that would be used as both a test bed for the company's new product development, as well as a means to satisfy Faustmann’s love for rock crawling with his favorite model Jeep.

The XJ sports OR-Fab's new rear comp-cut bumper.

To begin with, the XJ was outfitted with the company’s OR-Fab line of products that include a new front winch mount HD bumper, and a new rear “comp cut” bumper. The new rear bumper was developed on this Jeep and is much more streamlined with a tapered edge, and designed to easily slip off rocks while protecting the rear hatch and quarters. The Jeep was also outfitted with OR-Fab’s rear quarter panels, as well as a set of custom fabricated rock rails to protect the XJ’s side rockers.

The front suspension system used on the Jeep, is a prototype that Faustmann designed for the company's other brand, Trail Master Suspension. It's a six-inch lift system that features a tri-link long-arm lift and a heavy duty cross member and track bar bracket. There's no telling when or if the new suspension will make it to market, but it appears to work extremely well on the XJ, when it debuted for it's first trail run during the Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. To compliment the front, the rear was outfitted with a Rock Krawler four-link coil conversion with RuffStuff chassis stiffeners. Furthermore, to allow the XJ to drive and maneuver smoothly, Faustmann also added a set of 11-inch Fox Racing 2.0 reservoir shocks, a Currie Anti-Rock sway bar system, and PSC hydraulic ram-assist steering .

Front axles are from a 1976 Ford F-150.

The XJ’s drivetrain was totally upgraded to a variety of components that not too many Jeep owners tend to consider. The front axles for example, are out of a 1976 Ford F-150. It’s essentially a Dana 44 high-pinion housing that was outfitted with T&T Customs axle truss, an ARB air locker, Warn premium locking hubs, and Superior 30-spline Evolution axles with 5:13 ring and pinion gears.  The Ford front axle is connected to REID Racing forged steering knuckles and Artec Industries forged steering arms, which all match up great to the XJ’s body and chassis.

With a front drivetrain that’s much stronger than the factory XJ axles and steering, Faustmann also did the same with the rear by installing a Ford 9-inch out of a 1979 F-150 pickup. The housing was modified with an RK Heavy Duty welded truss system, 35-spline Superior Evolution axles and gears, a Detroit locker, and a rear disc brake conversion that was compiled from GM 3/4-ton truck parts and Ruff Stuff Specialties caliper brackets. The original transfer case was also upgraded with an Atlas two-speed unit and new heavy duty, 1310 steel driveshafts from Tom Woods Custom Driveshafts.

Rear Ford 9-inch came out of a 1979 F-150 pickup.

Under the hood, Faustmann added an ATK Performance 4.0 liter engine and outfitted it with an S&S Custom exhaust system.  The engine transfers its torque to a rebuilt Jeep AW4 automatic transmission, before it applies the power to the set of Goodyear 315/70R17 MT/R Kevlar tires mounted on Trail Ready 17x8.5 beadlock wheels.

Just in case the XJ ever gets into a precarious situation, the Warn M8000 winch, with Spyder Line synthetic cable running through a Hawse billet fairlead, provides an excellent means for recovery. Extra trail gear can be carried on the Gobi Stealth roof rack, and a set of Rigid Industries LED lights and light bar help to illuminate the way once the sun sets. The overall exterior of the XJ looks like it’s ready to take on any challenge, but the interior didn’t need to change much, with the only upgrade being a set of front black, Corbeau Baja XR-S seats.

Corbeau seats fit nicely in the XJ.

Needless to say, this Jeep gets lots of looks when it’s both on the highway and the trail. But aside from the American Rock Rod hood lovers and the bright red paint, the XJ is impressive for its engineering savvy and use of non–traditional components. This has many Jeep owners crawling in and underneath the vehicle to check out how the Cherokee was constructed. 

Considering that Jeep is now owned by Fiat, who also owns Ferarri, it gave Faustmann the idea to consider a whimsical nomenclature to the Cherokee. While Jeep did build a Ferrari styled version of the SRT8 Grand Cherokee, Faustmann new that his vehicle wasn’t truly Italian influenced, so it was dubbed the “Ferrarjeep.” More than anything, this Jeep Cherokee has stirred the imagination of many enthusiasts who have renewed their love for the Cherokee, and are now inspired to build and drive this vehicle on the trail once again.
For more information, contact Performance Automotive Group, P.O. Box 3450, Chino Valley, Arizona, 86323. (928) 636-7080. Visit them at www.OR-Fab.com and www.TrailMasterSuspension.com.

Text and photos by DS Media Relations

Additional Images

The XJ is extremely capable off-road with its prototype Trail Master Long-Arm suspension system.

The XJ uses an OR-Fab Front HD bumper with a Warn M8000 winch, with Spyder Line synthetic cable running through a Hawse billet fairlead

Goodyear 315/70R17 MT/R Kevlar tires mounted on Trail Ready 17x8.5 beadlock wheels.

Additional trail protection comes from a set of OR-Fab rear quarter armor used with ORO LED lights.

The original engine was replaced with an ATK 4.0Liter rebuilt engine that's augmented with an S&S exhaust system.

American Rock Rod hood louvers were added to augment the Cherokee's appearance.

The original transfer case was also upgraded with an Atlas two-speed unit.

BC4x4 Installs OR-Fab XJ Rock Sliders And Body Armor

BC4x4.com, one of Canada's most popular off-road websites, published an article on their website that shows the installation of a set of OR-Fab Rock Sliders and Rear Quarter Body Armor for the site's Project XJ Jeep. The OR-Fab Rock Sliders (PN-84460) feature 1 ¾-inch diameter rails that are made from .120 wall steel tube. Designed from experience and testing on the trail, these rock slider rails feature an additional 3/16-inch steel-plate gusset that ties the rail together, allowing Cherokee owners to take on the most extreme trails with confidence.

The OR-Fab XJ Rear Quarter panels are made from 3/16-inch steel plate and easily attache to the rear factory quarter panels with stainless steel hardware. The BC4x4 Jeep XJ had some modifications to the rear wheel-wells which required some modifications to the panels, but they showed how the panels were modified for their particular application. OR-Fab's XJ body armor protects your Jeep from damage on the trail and enhances the vehicle’s appearance. The armor is available with (PN-84450) or without (PN-84400) a 1.5-inch diameter rail-bar that’s made from .120 wall steel tubing. BC4x4 installed the armor with the 1.5-inch rail bar. To read the install article on BC4x4 click here.
By DS Media Relations

New Jeep JK Budget Lift Kit Adds 3-Inches Of Ride Height For Less Than $700

Trail Master’s new Budget Lift Kit makes it very affordable to raise your ‘07-‘12 Jeep JK Wrangler up to three-inches, to fit 33-inch tall tires and gain additional ground clearance. The kit, PN-J4625SSV, was designed to work with the factory suspension system to retain the vehicle’s original control arms and suspension geometry. The complete kit sells for less than $700 and includes new heavy-duty, front and rear coil springs, Trail Master’s SSV performance shocks, longer front sway-bar end-links, and heavy duty hardware. Trail Master Suspension systems are made in the U.S.A. Contact, Trail Master Suspension, P.O. Box 3450,Chino Valley, AZ 86323, (928) 636-7080. www.trailmastersuspension.com.

Toyota Tundra And Sequoia Steel Skid Plate Deters Cat-Converter Theft

OR-Fab manufactures a 14-gauge steel skid plate that can deter catalytic converter theft on all 2000 -'06 Toyota Tundra pickups and 2001-’07 model Toyota Sequoia SUVs. Catalytic converters contain platinum and other precious metals that are an easy target for thieves looking to take them for the scrap value. Both the Toyota Tundra and Sequoia vehicles are targeted due to their large sized converters and because they are easy to access.

OR-Fab's steel skid platePN-87041

OR-Fab’s one-piece, formed, skid plate, PN-87041 can deter theft and save Toyota owners the enormous cost of replacing a set of OEM converters. The skid plate installs in twenty minutes, includes heavy-duty hardware, and is finished in a durable black powder coat. The skid plate can be removed for exhaust service and also protects the drivetrain and exhaust from any hazards while driving off-road.

OR-Fab products are designed and manufactured in the U.S.A and are backed by years of off-road experience. Contact, OR-Fab, P.O. Box 3450, Chino Valley, AZ 86323, (928) 636-7080. Or visit them online at www.ORFab.com.

2012 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 HD DEF Tank Skid Plate

Add greater protection to the Diesel Exhaust Fluid tank on all 2012 model Chevrolet and GMC 2500 HD diesel pickups, with OR-Fab's DEF Tank Skid Plate. The skid plate (PN 87030), is manufactured from a single piece of 3/16-inch thick steel and doesn't require any cutting or drilling to install. Its precision press-bent, laser cut, and comes with two heavy duty mounting brackets and hardware. The skid plate is designed to protect the tank from damage if it comes into contact with debris on the highway, or on rocks or thick branches while driving off-road. It replaces the thin factory plate on 2012 model trucks and also fits 2011 models that come without any protection.

OR-Fab DEF skid plate installed

All OR-Fab products are designed and manufactured in the U.S.A , and are backed by years of off-road experience. For more information, contact Performance Automotive Group, P.O. Box 3450, Chino Valley, Arizona, 86323. (928) 636-7080. Or visit them on-line at www.orfab.com.
By, DS Media Relations

New 2012-2013 Performance Accessories Catalog

Performance Accessories just released it's new 2012-2013 full-color catalog that features product information on the company's body-lift kits, Premium Lift Systems, leaf spring shackles, body mounts and more. New vehicle applications are listed with part numbers and technical information you need to find the right system for your vehicle. You can download a free PDF copy HERE. Or you can contact the company directly to get a printed copy. For more information, contact Performance Accessories, P.O. Box 3450, Chino Valley, AZ 86323, 928-636-7080.

How To Fit Bigger Tires On Your 2012 Ford F-150 On A Budget

Installing Performance Accessories’ Premium Lift System

Text and Photos By DS Media Relations

Lifting your '09 to 2012 model Ford F-150 to accommodate larger 35-inch wheels and tires doesn’t necessarily require a full suspension lift anymore. Performance Accessories came up with a body-lift and leveling kit combination they call a Premium Lift System, to raise the vehicle five-inches, without the need for new A-arms, coil springs, lift spindles, or other major components associated with a full-suspension lift.
At a cost less than $840, the Premium Lift system for the Ford F-150 is definitely more economical. But the fact that it doesn’t affect the factory ride, void the warranty, or alter the suspension geometry, makes it even more appealing to many truck enthusiasts who simply want a level and lifted ride that looks great.

The kit comes with three-inch nylon reinforced body blocks, that are extrude molded under extreme pressures to create the perfect material for absorbing road vibrations, as well as maintaining an incredibly strong, reliable connection between the vehicle's body and frame. Also included is an aluminum upper coil spring mount spacer and a polyurethane coil spring spacer to split the amount of lift in the front. This method is preferred over a single two-inch spacer, as it prevents excessive spring pre-load that can cause a harsh ride, and inhibit the spring’s ability to properly oscillate. This technique also limits the overall length of the coil/shock assembly to keep ball-joint angles within their proper operating range, and eliminates the chance of contact with A-arms or other components when the suspension is under full compression or droop.

Because there's a greater gap between the body and frame after the body-lift is installed, Performance Accessories also includes it's urethane Gap Guards. These are wheel-well extensions that hide the gap, and give the truck a factory appearance. The kit also includes a high-quality CNC machined steering extension, laser-cut and black powder coated steel brackets, and heavy-duty hardware to lift the F-150 in 6-8 hours, without having to remove the vehicle's interior to access cab-mount bolts.

Installation Procedure

Although there aren’t any modifications to the factory suspension, there are alterations to the front and rear bumper brackets, the radiator fan shroud, and the removal of the factory coil and shock assembly. Not a lot of work when compared to a full-suspension lift that requires  dropping the front differential, cutting, wheel alignment, and all of the other modifications that are typically associated with a full suspension lift.

Raising the vehicle on a lift and using a long jack stand, allows each body block to be inserted between the factory mounts and frame.  Once this was done over the entire portion of the frame, the front and rear bumpers are removed. New brackets have to be installed to raise the bumpers up from the factory location on the frame. This requires removal of the bumper mounting brackets to cut for clearance and drill for new mounting bolt holes. This is much easier if you use a plasma cutter, but a cutting wheel will also do the job.

The steering extension is installed under the dash to lengthen the steering column for the added ride height. Likewise, the factory fan shroud must also be removed to add extension brackets, allowing it to properly clear the fan.

Once all the modifications to the bumper and fan shroud are completed, the front leveling kit is added. This requires unbolting the tie-rod and spindle nuts, allowing the coil and shock unit to be removed from the suspension. There's a trick to doing this so if you're not experienced, you should have a mechanic do it for you. Using a coil spring compressor, the top coil mount is removed and a new urethane coil spacer is installed. The factory bolts on the top mount are exchanged for longer bolts provided in the kit. This compensates for the aluminum top coil spacer that fits over the reassembled unit before it all goes back into the vehicle.

With everything buttoned up, the F-150 is nearly five-inches taller and was outfitted with 35-inch diameter wheels and tires. The ride was exceptionally smooth, not much different than stock. Furthermore, there was no need to align the vehicle or make any other modifications to accommodate the lift. Best of all, it's very affordable and provides the look and ride most Ford truck owners want.

Source
Performance Accessories
P.O. Box 3450
Chino Valley, AZ 86323
(928) 636-7080
www.p-a-g.net

The Performance Accessories Premium Lift system PN-PLS709 comes with everything you see here, including body blocks, gap guards, steering extension, leveling kit and more. It fits 2009-2012 model Ford F-150 pickups equipped with a hitch bumper and V-8 engine.

The body blocks fit over the factory body mounts with the provided heavy-duty hardware. You’ll need a lift and long jack stands to raise the body and insert each one across the entire frame.

New brackets (right) mount in the factory location but raise the mounting level so the bumpers fit like factory with the raised body.

Here you can see how the new brackets fit into the inner bumper mounts that must be removed and drilled for the new studs.

To make room for the added height and new bumper stud positions, the bumper mount on the frame must be trimmed, as shown in the areas in white.

A new hole is also drilled into the frame mount to accommodate the new bracket.

Without the factory inner bumper mount in place, you can see how the new brackets raise the bumper position.

The lower plastic fascia on the bumpers, around the tow-hook area, are also trimmed and the frame is finished off with a black cap to improve the appearance. 

The F-150’s fan shroud is a two piece unit. Spacers are added to extend the bottom portion down allowing for fan clearance.

The rear factory bumper braces on the frame are also trimmed to accommodate the new brackets.

The new brackets bolt in place along with some additional bracing to offer superior strength and support between the bumper and the factory hitch.

When the bumpers are placed back on the vehicle it looks like nothing was changed.

Part of the front leveling kit includes new urethane coil spacers. Compared to the factory spacers on the right, the Performance Accessories spacers add extra lift without extra tension on the coil spring.

Removing the coil and spring assembly requires unbolting the spindle nut, shock bolts and tie-rod nut.

Using a spring compressor the top spring perch is removed.

New studs will be used so the factory studs are punched out.

The longer studs will provide room for the small top strut spacer that provides additional height to the reassembled coil and shock unit.

The entire assembly is then bolted back into the factory position.

Urethane gap guards are installed on the factory inner fenders liners, to give the installation a factory appearance.

The CNC machined steering extension is a stout piece that fits under the dash of the  F-150. This ensures that the steering linkage is solid and has the proper geometry.

With the Premium Lift System installed, a set of 35-inch diameter tires fit nicely on the vehicle and provides added ground clearance and an aggressive look; all at an affordable cost.

To learn more about Premium Lift Systems, watch the video: