Bronco Upgrades, Day One: Suspension Upgrades

Whether your Ford Bronco is a brand-new off-the-lot purchase or a late-model treasure, one of the most impactful upgrades you can make on Day One is the factory suspension. From gaining better ground clearance to enhancing articulation on the trails, suspension mods can transform your Bronco into a more capable and personalized adventure machine. Let’s dive into why upgrading your Bronco’s suspension is a must-do for new owners and how Stage 3 Motorsports can help you get started.

Now, before anyone flames us, we know: the Bronco is a well-built, incredibly capable off-road machine from the factory, but some are a lot better than others. The Sasquatch package is pretty bulletproof right off the lot, but a LOT of Broncos on the used lots now were pretty basic models, due to price and availability when they were new.

Suspension upgrades go beyond aesthetics—though there’s no denying that a lifted Bronco turns heads. A solid suspension setup improves your Bronco’s ability to tackle rough terrain, navigate steep inclines, and keep your undercarriage safe from trail hazards. Even if you’re not planning to hit the backcountry right away, upgrading your suspension on Day One future-proofs your Bronco for whatever adventures come next.

Before diving into specific products, think about how you’ll use your Bronco:

• Daily Driving with Light Trails: A small lift or leveling kit gives you a more aggressive look and moderate ground clearance improvements without sacrificing on-road comfort.
• Weekend Warrior: For those who hit moderate off-road trails on weekends, a 2- to 3-inch lift kit offers the perfect balance of clearance and capability.
• Hardcore Off-Roader: Serious off-road enthusiasts who love rock crawling or extreme terrain should consider long-travel suspension systems or coilover upgrades for maximum articulation and durability.

Types of Suspension Upgrades

Suspension mods come in many forms, each offering unique benefits. Here’s a quick rundown of popular options:

• Leveling Kits: Perfect for correcting the front-end rake common in factory setups. These are affordable and easy to install, providing a more balanced look and slightly better clearance.
• Spacer Lift Kits: These add height without replacing factory shocks, making them a cost-effective option for mild off-roading or fitting larger tires.
• Coilover Kits: These replace factory shocks and springs with a more advanced system, improving ride quality and offering adjustable height for better customization.
• Adjustable Shocks: Ideal for those who switch between road and trail, these allow you to fine-tune your suspension stiffness and damping.

At Stage 3 Motorsports, we offer a range of suspension kits to suit every need, from basic lifts to advanced systems for hardcore off-roaders.

Lift Heights and Their Impact

One of the first decisions you’ll make is how high to lift your Bronco. Here’s how different lift heights affect your ride:

• 1 to 2 Inches: Perfect for maintaining a factory-like ride while adding enough clearance to fit 33-inch tires. Great for light trail use and daily driving.
• 2 to 3 Inches: Opens up the ability to fit 35-inch tires and improves approach, breakover, and departure angles. This is a sweet spot for weekend warriors.
• 4 Inches or More: Reserved for serious off-road builds, this height allows for 37-inch tires and extreme terrain capabilities but may require drivetrain modifications to maintain performance.

Your suspension and tires work in tandem, so it’s essential to consider them together. For example, a 2-inch lift paired with 35-inch all-terrain tires offers a balanced setup for both on-road comfort and trail capability. Larger lifts and mud-terrain tires may offer superior off-road performance but can impact fuel economy and road noise.

If you’re unsure about the best combination, Stage 3 Motorsports’ experts can help you choose the right setup for your goals.

Upgrading your suspension is a great opportunity to tackle any deferred maintenance. Ignoring issues like worn bushings or sagging springs can diminish the benefits of a new suspension system. Here are some areas to inspect:

• Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends: Ensure these components are in good condition to handle the added strain of a lift, and inspecting used Broncos carefully to ensure the previous owner didn’t wear things out already.
• Control Arms: Check for wear, especially if you’re planning a significant lift.
• Shocks and Struts: Older Broncos may have worn factory shocks that won’t pair well with new suspension components.

Stage 3 Motorsports offers not only the parts you need for upgrades but also advice on addressing these common maintenance issues.

Installing a suspension kit can range from a simple DIY project to a more involved professional installation, depending on the type of upgrade. Here’s what to consider:

• DIY Install: Leveling kits and small spacer lifts are often beginner-friendly and require basic tools.
• Professional Installation: Coilovers, adjustable shocks, and long-travel systems may require advanced skills, specialized tools, and alignment adjustments.

After installation, always test your Bronco on a short drive to ensure proper alignment and handling. Scheduling a professional alignment post-installation is highly recommended, especially for larger lifts.

Build Your Bronco with Stage 3 Motorsports

Whether you’re lifting your Bronco for the trails or just adding a bit of height for style, suspension upgrades are a cornerstone of customization. At Stage 3 Motorsports, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality parts, expert guidance, and the passion to help every Bronco owner achieve their vision.

Start your suspension upgrade journey today and turn your Day One Bronco into the ultimate off-road machine. Let Stage 3 Motorsports help you lift your ride, elevate your adventures, and make your Bronco truly yours.