While it's likely this has been covered in the past, 15 minutes of searching didn't uncover what I'm after soooo...
I have a 2007 SSV, so low spec 4x4 with Z71 suspension, but no ride height adjustability. I also have a '95 2 door Z71 Tahoe for more serious use, so this guy is street/mud use only, with a possible eye toward towing. I'm a sports car guy, so handling matters, but the roads around here are rough enough it seems more logical to stick to 17" wheels for the taller sidewalls.
What would I gain from "leveling" the front via Bilstein 5100s? I started out thinking that would allow me to run 285/70-17s with no clearance issues, in which case I'd likely do it. But, in looking at the wheel opening, that lift is not going to change the clearance at the front of the wheelwells enough to accommodate 285s. Is this a fair assumption?
If raising the nose slightly doesn't provide more tire width clearance, what's the advantage? I get that some people prefer the look, but I've been around cars long enough to know not to change something unless there's a specific reason to do so.
So... what are the pros and cons of eliminating the factory rake in terms of handling, road feel, tire wear, and other practical concerns?
I have a 2007 SSV, so low spec 4x4 with Z71 suspension, but no ride height adjustability. I also have a '95 2 door Z71 Tahoe for more serious use, so this guy is street/mud use only, with a possible eye toward towing. I'm a sports car guy, so handling matters, but the roads around here are rough enough it seems more logical to stick to 17" wheels for the taller sidewalls.
What would I gain from "leveling" the front via Bilstein 5100s? I started out thinking that would allow me to run 285/70-17s with no clearance issues, in which case I'd likely do it. But, in looking at the wheel opening, that lift is not going to change the clearance at the front of the wheelwells enough to accommodate 285s. Is this a fair assumption?
If raising the nose slightly doesn't provide more tire width clearance, what's the advantage? I get that some people prefer the look, but I've been around cars long enough to know not to change something unless there's a specific reason to do so.
So... what are the pros and cons of eliminating the factory rake in terms of handling, road feel, tire wear, and other practical concerns?
