100% Price Match
EASY RETURNS
Secure Checkout
SHIPPING
How to Choose Your Constant Load?
When investing in a lift kit, understanding constant load is essential for optimal vehicle performance.
Having the wrong constant load will impact:
• Durability
• Performance & Comfort
• Safety
At Mudify, we set most lift kits up with four constant load options: Standard Load, Medium Load, Heavy Load, and Tailored applications. This approach allows us to provide the best ride quality for each unique ride, use, and application, both on and off-road.
In this guide, we'll explore the key factors influencing constant load and how to calculate it accurately. You'll also learn the details about our constant load set-ups, which will help you select the right one for you.
What is Constant Load?
Constant load refers to additional weight that is always in the vehicle, mainly permanent accessories and modifications, such as bumpers, winches, skid plates, and other aftermarket additions.
You must not confuse constant load with your vehicle’s payload capacity, which is the weight a vehicle can safely carry in terms of passengers and cargo. Knowing the payload capacity is helpful because it tells you how much you can carry as temporary load in your truck.
Figuring out your vehicle's constant load will ensure that your lift kit lasts longer and your payload capacity remains unaffected.
For reference, here are the approximate payload capacities of some of the most popular models:
• 4Runner: 1500 - 1700 lbs.
• Tacoma: 1230 - 1700 lbs.
• Lexus: 1100 - 1200 lbs.
• Landcruiser: 1690 - 1800 lbs.
• Tundra: 1580 - 1950 lbs.
• Bronco: 1015 - 1450 lbs.
• FJ Cruiser: 1230 - 1250 lbs.
• Wrangler: 1100 - 1400 lbs.
IMPORTANT NOTE
If you plan to have a temporary load that exceeds your vehicle's payload capacity or if you're towing something (boats or RVs) beyond your vehicle's towing capacity, you might need a tailored set-up. Feel free to contact our experts for advice on the right lift kit for your needs.
Determining Your Vehicle’s Constant Load
Step 1: Plan ahead to consider future modifications
Consider how you'll use your vehicle and which accessories you plan to add within the next year. You don't have to decide on the exact bumper or winch right now, but think about whether you'll likely get one soon. These additions will affect your vehicle's constant load and, if not considered, could impact your ride's performance and durability, so it's crucial to plan ahead.
Step 2: Calculate the total weight of your current and planned accessories
Once you know what you plan to add to your ride in the near future, calculate the total weight of the planned accessories and the ones you already have on your vehicle. There’s no need to stress over exact numbers—it's just a ballpark.
Here’s an estimation of the weight of some of the most popular aftermarket accessories to help you make a quick calculation:
• Common Front Accessories:
- Low-Profile Bumper: 40-80 lbs
- Hybrid Bumper (Tubular/Medium Sized): 80-150 lbs
- Brush Guard Bumper (Heavy Bumper): 150-200 lbs
- Winch: 60-120 lbs (winch only, not including mounting)
- Skid Plate: 30-80 lbs
- Auxiliary Lights: 5-20 lbs (depending on size and number)
- Dual Battery System: 60-150 lbs (including batteries)
• Common Rear Accessories:
- Rear bumper: 100 - 200 lbs
- Roof Rack: 50-150 lbs (depending on size and material)
- Roof Tent: 80-250 lbs
- Rear spare tire (5th wheel): 60-80 lbs (5th wheel)
- Drawer System: 80-250 lbs (depending on size and construction)
- Fridge: 30-100 lbs (depending on size and model)
- Recovery Gear: 20-50 lbs
IMPORTANT: Most of the roof weight is distributed toward the rear, so roof accessories are included in the rear load.
Step 3: Select your constant load option at Mudify.com
Once you've figured out your Front and Rear Constant Load, it's time to pick the right setup for your vehicle. At Mudify, we offer 4 set-ups: Standard Load, Medium Load, Heavy Load, and Tailored Applications. Here's a breakdown of each:
• Standard load: Ideal for vehicles with stock configurations or light accessories, with a front load of up to 50 lbs and a rear load of up to 200 lbs.
For example:
- In the front (0-50 lbs), a low-profile front bumper and/or a skid plate.
- In the rear (0-200 lbs), a rear bumper and/or a light roof rack.
What does it look like?
• Medium load: An option for vehicles with extra accessories supporting a Front load of 50 to 150 lbs and a Rear load of 200 to 400 lbs.
For example:
- In the front (50-150 lbs), a heavier front bumper or a light winch.
- In the rear (200-400 lbs), a heavier roof rack and rear bumper; or a fridge and drawers.
What does it look like?
• Heavy load: For those going overlanding and/or carrying heavy accessories, this option supports loads ranging from 150 to 250 pounds in the front and 400 to 800 pounds in the rear.
For example:
- In the front (150-250 lbs), heavy front bumpers; or a skid plate and a winch.
- In the rear (400-800 lbs), heavy equipment such as freezers, a roof rack, roof tent, drawers, recovery gear, and a rear spare tire.
What does it look like?
Tailored application:
If none of the previous configurations fit your specific situation, we have the solution for you: a Tailored lift kit. This is for cases that require a personalized set-up.
Whether you have unusual weight distribution in the front or rear, or other specialized requirements, we can assist you in selecting or setting up the perfect suspension.
Just give us a call!
Importance of Selecting the Correct Constant Load
Choosing the right constant load for your vehicle offers several benefits:
• Durability: Each suspension system is designed for a specific constant load. So having the correct springs for the weight you carry, you'll prevent excessive wear and tear, keeping your suspension in top condition over time. This way, your suspension stays balanced, performs better, and lasts longer.
• Performance & Comfort: When your vehicle's springs and shocks correctly match the weight they support, they perform at their best. This means they effectively handle the load without excessive sagging, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.
• Safety: By having the right constant load, you'll prevent stability and traction issues, thereby enhancing vehicle safety. This ensures your vehicle remains stable and responsive, reducing the risk of accidents, particularly in challenging driving conditions.
Considering all these benefits, it’s clear why you need to choose the right constant load for your vehicle. As it’s crucial for ensuring your vehicle performs its bests on and off the road.
FAQs
What are the signs that my vehicle’s constant load is incorrect?
The signs vary depending on whether the constant load is inadequate or excessive for proper suspension. Here are some of the most common indicators:
Under proper constant load:
• Nosedive when braking.
• Excessive sagging (vehicle squatting or loss of height).
• Sudden tire rubbing.
Over proper constant load:
• Rough ride (the vehicle feels like riding a tank).
• Clanking noise when hitting bumps.
• Bounciness in the rear end of the vehicle.
How do I determine if my vehicle needs heavy-duty suspension components?
To clarify, "heavy-duty" doesn't necessarily mean more durable or "better." It refers to components designed for higher constant loads, generally 600 pounds or more. Installing heavy-duty suspension on a vehicle that doesn't regularly handle this weight range is not recommended, as it could reduce durability and make the ride bumpy and overly rigid.
Yes, you can install aftermarket suspension components to manage constant load better. This can include upgrading to higher or adjustable valving shocks to handle the rebound and compression of heavier loads effectively. Additionally, changing the springs can help regain lost height and improve overall suspension performance.