Many people believe the lifted truck craze has its genesis in the 1970s/1980s DIY lifted truck scene, but technically modifying cars and trucks for improved performance is a practice that dates as far back as the beginnings of American car manufacturing in general. Henry Ford’s Model T, for example, was often adapted by farmers, who added a cargo box, building what was essentially a pick-up truck. Following use in World War I, pick-up trucks were produced for mass consumption and soon after, consumers began making modifications to those too, mainly for functionality— turning a 2-wheel drive vehicle into a 4-wheel drive for example. The lifted truck also takes some inspiration from the pick-ups used in World War II, which were required to travel across the rugged terrain of various battlefields. These trucks were outfitted with extended suspensions and huge wheels. The most well-known precursor to the modern lifted or custom-built truck is, of course, the “Monster” truck. The Monster truck is the first popular instance of a heavy-duty suspension kits, A customized chassis, and literally monstrous wheel and tire packages.
What is a lifted truck?
A lifted truck is a truck that has had the suspension modified to increase the height of the vehicle. Lifted trucks are normally fitted with larger than average wheels and off-road tires. This makes lifted trucks appear larger than stock vehicles.
Why do people lift trucks?
People lift their trucks for a few different reasons. One common reason people lift trucks is to increase ground clearance. In this case, the truck owner is primarily concerned with being able to maneuver their vehicle over rocks and other obstacles off-road. Lifting a truck allows a driver to add a larger wheel and tire package, which is also beneficial for taking the vehicle off-road and onto tough terrain. Another popular reason people get their trucks lifted is for looks. People like the look of a lifted truck and with many different attractive aftermarket wheels and tire options now available, customizing a truck to show it off has become increasingly popular.
