So what’s the deal with 4x4’s with lift kits? There are literally dozens of lifted Sierras/Silverados, Cherokees/Grand Cherokees, F250’s, Wranglers, you name it.
How are these guys getting their vehicles inspected in Massachusetts? I know for a fact that they’re not adding the lift after they get their sticker.
I believe there’s a 2” limit for bumper height here. These trucks are sporting at LEAST 4” lifts.
And more importantly, how can I do the same?
It is not a fixed height limit. It is determined by a mathematical formula based on the wheelbase if I remember.
The reality is I don’t think anyone really checks it unless you are reaching monster truck type lift and tires. I can get the formula for you from my inspection manual. But I remember that four inches of lift on a bigger truck is usually legal.
In reply to dean1484 :
That’s great to hear. I know (or I think I know) you need to add track width as height increases but that seems like it may take care of itself in many cases.
Without any guarantees obviously, you believe say, an XJ or F250 with a 4” quality lift kit will pass (as long as emissions and other things are in order)?
And thanks for the response!
I was so sure that with the new system, with all the cameras and the strictness up here that lift kits would get you sent home with a rejection sticker.
Here is the actual regulation.
Yes the track width is part of the equation and then you can also lift the truck an equal amount with bigger tires. So if you can legally lift the truck suspension by 2 inches you can then put tires that lift the truck another 2 inches. I know this sounds like I am one of teh "get off my lawn" type person but I think they should change it to headlight hight and just put a maximum on that. So you can do whatever you want to your truck but you can not exceed a fixed headlight hight. This would make the inspections much easier. It would also address the real safety issue in that having headlights that are that much higher will blind oncoming traffic even on low.
Also, the cameras are there to record things they are rarely monitored in real time. You have to give them a reason to monitor you. They are recording you all the time. They are also there to cover you. I have had people get really upset when I reject them for say bald tires (it was a ML 6.3 if I remember) The insides 1/3 of the rear tires were to the cords. The guy was adamant that I had to pass him because he was that self-important person that always gets there way. I asked him to come into the bay and showed him the cameras and then asked him to explain to me again so the RMV cameras could record why I needed to pass his car. He became allot less aggressive and sheepishly took his car and left. As far as I know, he did not come back for a re-inspection. The bottom line is I like the cameras.
The really funny part about car inspections (and this is a generalization for sure) is that those with the cash driving really nice cars have this self-absorbed thing going on that the rules don't apply to them. Where-as those regular people in a 15 your old Toyota that may have an issue are usually very understanding and thank us for keeping them safe.
I’m also a big proponent of headlight aiming. In my 4x4 Sierra, I’m constantly getting blinded by cars (not trucks) for some reason.
Yearly inspections are the one time per year I get very anxious. That’s because I’m praying I have everything just right and that I haven’t missed anything. I’d never try to pass bald tires, dry, cracked tires or anything obvious like that. My fear is getting failed for something that’s more appearance than safety.
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