The R&D department at BDS Suspension has been working hard developing, testing and refining suspension systems for the new 2019+ Ford Ranger. These kits have been engineered from the ground up to improve performance and functionality. By combining their 2.5" and 3.5" lift options, BDS has created a new 6" IFS lift system that brings on-road comfort & off-road capability. Although this kit will allow for up to 35" tires, fitting larger tires was not their main design goal. BDS prides itself in engineering complete suspension systems designed to take a vehicle's performance to the next level while retaining OE-level functionality. For instance, the (NHTSA) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's FMVSS No. 126 compliance standards requiring any aftermarket modification to not adversely affect the vehicle's electronic stability control (ESC) system performance in the event of an evasive maneuver. These new kits have been independently tested and certified complaint with these standards with up to 35" tires [as tested on 35x12.50 tires on 18x9 wheels w/ 5" BS]. Not only that, but BDS has found several concerns on the new Ranger that needed to be addressed to ensure durability, compatibility and functionality.
The meat of this new 6” system is a pair of ¼” thick laser cut steel crossmembers that improve clearance and provide a solid mounting point for the OE lower control arms. The front crossmember allows for integration of the factory skid plate, as well as a rivet-on stainless steel BDS emblem. These crossmembers, combined with the heavy-duty differential skid plate system and sway bar relocation brackets create a rigid subframe that adds protection for vital steering and driveline components. A pair of specially designed ductile cast iron replacement steering knuckles are supplied to maintain proper steering geometry for ESC system compatibility. These connect to the factory steering with a pair of heavy-duty replacement tie rod ends. The front differential is repositioned with BDS’s multi-point relocation bracket system, securing the front differential and keeping CV axle angles at a minimum. To allow the reinstallation of the factory front driveshaft, a billet aluminum front driveshaft spacer and longer hardware is included. To gain additional ride height on this kit, a set of top mounted steel fabricated pitched and indexed strut spacers are used in combination with preload spacers to maintain ride quality and handling characteristics without over extending the CVs at full droop (an issue if only using a top mounted strut spacer). To reposition the factory brake lines, a pair of brake line relocation brackets are utilized, and for more range of motion and easier alignment, new lower control arm cam bolts are supplied.
Towards the rear of this 6” lift system, BDS supplies a heavy-duty replacement transfer case crossmember. This has been shown through testing to eliminate driveline vibrations and shutter during hard acceleration. Included with this crossmember is a carrier bearing drop that allows for the reinstallation of the factory rear driveshaft. Lift in the rear comes by way of a two 3-5/8” steel fabricated lift blocks, secured by larger black e-coated u-bolts, designed to level the stance. Rear brake line slack is achieved with the included brake line and e-brake brackets. Finish that off with your choice of either specially tuned NX2 nitro series gas shocks, or FOX 2.0 IFP performance series gas shocks, offering improved damper performance. This kit, as with all BDS lift kits, include Factory Protection Plus. FPP is the ultimate extended warranty including BDS’s No Fine Print Warranty, ESC System compatibility and a 5-year 60,000-mile drive-train warranty to match the dealer. Substantially Improve the look and capability of your 2019 Ford Ranger with this new 6” lift system from BDS Suspension!
