There are many ways to remodel your pop-up camper; the specific remodel will depend on the current condition of the RV and your desired outcome. Some common remodeling projects for pop-up campers are kitchen and bathroom remodeling, interior decorating, electrical and plumbing upgrades, exterior updates, and adding custom features.
Moreover, suspension lifts are a famous RV modification commonly seen on jeeps, UTVs, ATVs, and trucks. Because of how popular they have become, vehicle owners have put suspension lifts on almost every vehicle.
Nevertheless, the question arises, can you install a lifted suspension on a pop-up camper? Read further to learn all suspension lifts!
How Do Suspension Lifts Work?
A suspension lift is a modification that raises a vehicle’s height by altering the suspension system. Suspension lifts work by raising the body of a vehicle higher off the ground, which in turn increases the ground clearance. This is typically done by substituting the manufacturer’s suspension parts with post-sale or replacement parts designed to lift the vehicle.
There are two main types of suspension lifts: body lifts and suspension lifts. A body lift increases the body of the vehicle away from its framework, while a suspension lift raises the entire vehicle, including the frame and suspension components.
Suspension Lifts Vs. Body Lifts
A body lift raises the body of the vehicle by installing spacers between the body and the frame. This lift increases the distance between the tires and the body, providing more clearance for larger tires and off-road adventures. Body lifts are generally less costly in comparison to suspension lifts and are more effortless to set up. Nevertheless, they don’t provide the off-road performance the suspension lifts do and may not be compatible with certain aftermarket parts.
On the other hand, a suspension lift raises the entire vehicle by replacing the factory suspension components with taller ones. The most common suspension lifts are coil springs, leaf springs, and coilover lifts. Coil spring lifts replace the factory coil springs with taller ones, which raises the vehicle’s body. Leaf spring lifts replace the factory leaf springs with taller ones, which raises the vehicle’s body and improves its off-road performance.
Coilover lifts are a combination of coil springs and shock absorbers in one unit, usually found in high-performance or off-road vehicles. Suspension lifts can provide better off-road performance and a more aggressive look, but they are generally more expensive and difficult to install than body lifts. Additionally, suspension lifts can affect the vehicle’s alignment, ride quality, and handling, so it is important to have the vehicle properly aligned and the suspension tuned after installing a suspension lift.
Pros And Cons Of A Suspension Lift
The pros of a suspension lift include the following:
- Increased Ground Clearance
A suspension lift raises the entire vehicle, which increases the distance between the tires and the ground. This provides more clearance for larger tires and off-road adventures.
- Improved Off-Road Performance
A suspension lift can improve the vehicle’s off-road performance by increasing its ability to clear obstacles and navigate rough terrain.
- Aggressive Look
A suspension lift can give a vehicle a more aggressive look, which is desirable for people who are into edgy looks.
- Better Off-Road Articulation
A suspension lift can increase the suspension’s range of motion; this is helpful when off-roading as it allows the vehicle to adapt to uneven terrain more easily.
The Cons Of A Suspension Lift Include The Following:
-
Higher Cost
Suspension lifts are generally more expensive than body lifts and are difficult to install.
-
Alignment And Handling Issues
Suspension lifts can affect the vehicle’s alignment, ride quality, and handling. After installing a suspension lift, it is important to have the vehicle properly aligned and the suspension tuning.
-
Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Lifting the vehicle increases the aerodynamic drag, reducing fuel efficiency.
-
Legal Issues
A suspension lift may not be legal in some states or countries. It can make a vehicle non-compliant with the original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM) standards, which could cause problems with insurance or registration.
-
Changing The Center Of Gravity
Raising the suspension also changes the vehicle’s center of mass, which can affect the handling and stability of the vehicle.
It is important to weigh the pros and cons of a suspension lift and consider how it might affect your driving needs before deciding to install one.
Pros And Cons Of A Body Lift
The Pros Of A Body Lift Include The Following:
-
Increased Ground Clearance
A body lift raises the body of the vehicle by installing spacers between the body and the frame, which increases the distance between the tires and the body, providing more clearance for larger tires and off-road adventures.
-
Lower Cost
Body lifts are typically less expensive than suspension lifts and are easier to install.
-
Improved Aesthetics
A body lift can give a vehicle a more aggressive look and improve overall vehicle appearance.
-
Compatibility With Factory Parts
A body lift typically does not affect the factory suspension and other parts, making it more compatible with OEM and aftermarket parts.
The Cons Of A Body Lift Include The Following:
-
Reduced Off-Road Performance
A body lift does not improve the vehicle’s off-road performance as much as a suspension lift.
-
Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Lifting the body increases the aerodynamic drag, reducing fuel efficiency.
-
Potential For The Gap Between The Body And Frame
If not installed correctly, the body lift may create unsightly gaps between the body and the frame.
-
Reduced Structural Integrity
A body lift can reduce the structural integrity of the vehicle and may not be able to handle the stress of off-roading.
-
Legal Issues
A body lift may not be legal in some states or countries. It can make a vehicle non-compliant with the original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM) standards, which could cause problems with insurance or registration.
Can I Put A Suspension Lift On A Pop-Up Camper?
It is technically possible to put a suspension lift on a pop-up camper, but it may not be practical or safe. Pop-up campers are not designed to be lifted and modified in the same way that a traditional truck or SUV would be. Suspension lifts are typically used to raise a vehicle’s ride height to clear larger tires or improve off-road performance. However, pop-up campers are not designed for off-road use and do not typically require larger tires.
Additionally, suspension lifts can affect a vehicle’s overall stability and handling, and a pop-up camper, a lightweight and compact vehicle, would be more likely to sway and instability. This could lead to dangerous driving conditions and possibly cause damage to the camper or the tow vehicle. Furthermore, lifting a pop-up camper would affect the center of mass and cause it to be unstable and dangerous when towing it.
Safety Precautions
Installing a suspension lift on a pop-up camper is a complex and potentially dangerous task, and it’s important to take certain safety precautions to ensure a successful and safe installation.
Make Sure The Camper Is Supported Properly
Before beginning the installation, ensure the camper is supported properly with jack stands or other support devices to prevent it from tipping or collapsing during installation.
Use The Right Tools
Ensure you have the right tools, including specialized suspension lift tools, torque wrenches, and impact guns.
Wear Proper Safety Gear
Always wear safety gear, including safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots, to protect yourself from flying debris and other hazards.
Follow The Instructions Carefully
Read and follow the instructions for the suspension lift kit carefully, and take your time with the installation process.
Check For Compatibility
Before buying a suspension lift, ensure the kit is compatible with your specific make and model of a pop-up camper and that it will not affect the structural integrity of the camper or compromise its safety.
Seek Professional Help
If you are not confident in your mechanical abilities, it is best to have a professional mechanic install the suspension lift to ensure it is done correctly and safely.
Check Legal Regulations
Make sure to check the laws and regulations of your area before installing a lift, as some states or countries may have strict regulations regarding the height of vehicles.
Take It For A Test Drive
Finally, it is important to test drive and inspect the camper after installation to ensure everything is working correctly and safely and that there is no damage or leaks.
Final Thoughts
A suspension lift is a modification that raises a vehicle’s ride height by altering the suspension system. It can improve off-road capability, better visibility, increase tire size, and give a vehicle a more aggressive and rugged appearance. However, it reduces fuel efficiency, handles on-road stability, increases maintenance, and may not meet legal requirements.
We hope you have acquired some useful insight about suspension lifts and how you can set a suspension lift on a pop-up camper. The most affordable and ideal method to lift your pop-up camper’s suspension is to move the leaf spring, creating extra space and raising the height. Doing so provides more terrain flexibility, contains damage rendered by scratching and bumping, and, frankly, it looks super cool. However, your safety is important. Seek professional help, and make educated decisions to prevent damage to your precious pop-up camper.
I love crispy fried chicken, jogging, brisk walk, and I do sleep tight at night.