So, you're looking to transform your 2000 Ford Ranger into an off-road beast with a long travel kit? Awesome choice, guys! A long travel kit can dramatically improve your Ranger's performance, especially when tackling challenging terrains. But with so many options out there, selecting the perfect kit can feel overwhelming. Let's break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision and get the most out of your build.

Understanding Long Travel Kits

Before diving into specific kits, let's clarify what a long travel kit actually does. Essentially, it replaces your Ranger's stock suspension components with longer, stronger parts. This increases the vehicle's wheel travel, allowing the suspension to soak up bumps and dips more effectively. The result? Improved off-road handling, stability, and overall ride quality. Think of it like giving your Ranger longer legs to run and jump! When choosing a long travel kit, consider the materials, build quality, and the kit's intended use. A well-designed kit will significantly improve your Ranger's off-road capabilities, but a poorly designed one can lead to premature wear and tear, or even failure. Look for kits that use high-quality materials like chromoly steel and billet aluminum, and pay attention to the reputation of the manufacturer. Also, think about what kind of off-roading you'll be doing most often. Are you planning on rock crawling, desert racing, or just general trail riding? The ideal kit will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Also consider the complexity of the installation. Some kits are designed to be relatively easy to install, while others may require significant modifications to your vehicle. If you're not comfortable with welding and fabrication, you may want to choose a kit that can be installed with basic tools. Finally, consider the cost of the kit. Long travel kits can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it's important to set a budget before you start shopping. Keep in mind that you may also need to factor in the cost of installation, as well as any additional components that you may need, such as shocks, springs, and tires.

Key Components of a Long Travel Kit

A typical long travel kit includes:

• Upper and Lower Control Arms: These are the main structural components that connect the wheel hub to the vehicle's frame. Long travel kits use longer control arms to increase wheel travel.
• Coilover Shocks: These shocks provide damping and spring support. They are typically longer and more robust than stock shocks to handle the increased travel.
• Spindles or Knuckles: These components connect the control arms to the wheel hub. Some long travel kits include upgraded spindles for increased strength and improved geometry.
• Axle Shafts (for 4WD): Longer axle shafts are needed to accommodate the increased wheel travel.
• Limit Straps: These straps prevent the suspension from over-extending, protecting the shocks and other components from damage.
• Brake Lines: Longer brake lines are required to accommodate the increased wheel travel.

When evaluating different kits, pay close attention to the quality and design of each component. Look for control arms made from strong materials like chromoly steel, and shocks with adjustable damping to fine-tune the ride. The spindles should be designed to improve steering geometry and reduce bump steer. Don't skimp on quality here; these components are crucial for ensuring the safety and performance of your Ranger.

Top Long Travel Kit Brands for Your 2000 Ford Ranger

Okay, let’s talk brands. Some of the most popular and highly regarded manufacturers of long travel kits for the 2000 Ford Ranger include:

• Baja Kits: Known for their high-quality materials, precise engineering, and race-proven designs. Baja Kits offers a range of kits for different budgets and performance levels.
• Camburg Engineering: Camburg is a well-established name in off-road suspension, offering a wide range of long travel kits and other performance parts. Their kits are known for their durability and performance.
• Total Chaos Fabrication: Total Chaos is another reputable manufacturer of long travel kits, offering a variety of options for the Ford Ranger. Their kits are designed for both recreational and competitive off-road use.
• Dirt King Fabrication: Dirt King Fabrication is a newer company, but they have quickly gained a reputation for their high-quality products and innovative designs. Their long travel kits are designed for maximum performance and durability.

Do your research and compare the features, prices, and customer reviews of different brands before making a decision. Consider what kind of off-roading you'll be doing most often, and choose a kit that is designed for that type of terrain. Don't be afraid to ask questions and get advice from experienced off-roaders or suspension specialists.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Kit

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. When selecting a long travel kit for your 2000 Ford Ranger, keep these factors in mind:

• Intended Use: Are you primarily interested in rock crawling, desert racing, or general trail riding? The best kit for you will depend on your specific needs and driving style. A desert racing kit, for example, will typically have more travel and be designed for high-speed performance, while a rock crawling kit will prioritize articulation and low-speed control.
• Budget: Long travel kits can range in price from a few thousand dollars to upwards of ten thousand dollars. Determine how much you're willing to spend before you start shopping. Remember to factor in the cost of installation, as well as any additional components that you may need, such as shocks, springs, and tires.
• Installation Complexity: Some kits are designed to be relatively easy to install, while others may require significant modifications to your vehicle. Assess your mechanical skills and choose a kit that you're comfortable installing. If you're not comfortable with welding and fabrication, you may want to choose a kit that can be installed with basic tools. Or, you can always hire a professional to do the installation for you.
• Wheel Travel: Consider the amount of wheel travel that the kit provides. More travel generally means better off-road performance, but it can also require more extensive modifications to your vehicle. Think about the type of terrain you'll be driving on, and choose a kit that provides the right amount of travel for your needs. A kit with too much travel can actually be detrimental, as it can make your vehicle unstable and difficult to control.
• Component Quality: Look for kits that use high-quality materials and components. The control arms should be made from strong materials like chromoly steel, and the shocks should have adjustable damping. The spindles should be designed to improve steering geometry and reduce bump steer. Don't skimp on quality here; these components are crucial for ensuring the safety and performance of your Ranger.

Installation Tips and Considerations

So, you’ve got your kit. Now what? Here are some tips to make the installation process smoother:

• Read the Instructions Carefully: Before you start, take the time to read the installation instructions thoroughly. Make sure you understand each step before you begin. This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure that the installation is done correctly.
• Gather the Necessary Tools: Make sure you have all the tools you need before you start. This includes basic hand tools, as well as specialized tools like a ball joint separator and a spring compressor. Having the right tools will make the job much easier and faster.
• Take Your Time: Don't rush the installation process. Take your time and pay attention to detail. This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure that the installation is done correctly. If you're not sure about something, don't be afraid to ask for help from a friend or a professional.
• Torque Everything to Spec: Use a torque wrench to tighten all the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. This is important to ensure that the suspension components are properly secured and will not come loose over time. Over-tightening the bolts can also damage the components, so it's important to use the correct torque settings.
• Get an Alignment: After the installation is complete, take your Ranger to a reputable alignment shop to have the alignment checked and adjusted. This is important to ensure that your vehicle handles properly and that your tires wear evenly. A proper alignment will also improve your fuel economy and extend the life of your suspension components.

Maximizing Your Long Travel Kit's Performance

Okay, you’ve installed your kit. Now, let's ensure you're getting the absolute best performance out of it. To maximize your long travel kit's performance, consider these points:

• Proper Shock Tuning: Fine-tuning your shocks is crucial for optimal performance. Experiment with different damping settings to find what works best for your driving style and terrain. If you're not sure how to do this, consult with a suspension specialist.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep your long travel kit in good condition by performing regular maintenance. This includes lubricating the control arm bushings, checking the ball joints for wear, and inspecting the shocks for leaks. Regular maintenance will help extend the life of your kit and ensure that it performs optimally.
• Appropriate Tire Selection: Choose tires that are appropriate for your driving style and terrain. If you're primarily driving on the street, you'll want to choose tires that offer good on-road performance and handling. If you're primarily driving off-road, you'll want to choose tires that offer good traction and durability. The right tires can make a big difference in your Ranger's performance.
• Consider Upgrading Other Components: To further enhance your Ranger's off-road capabilities, consider upgrading other components, such as the brakes, axles, and steering system. Upgrading these components can help improve your vehicle's overall performance and durability.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your 2000 Ford Ranger's long travel kit performs at its best for years to come!

Conclusion

Choosing the right long travel kit for your 2000 Ford Ranger is a big decision, but with the right information, you can make an informed choice and transform your truck into an off-road machine. Remember to consider your intended use, budget, installation skills, and the quality of the components. Do your research, compare different brands, and don't be afraid to ask for help. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can build a Ranger that is capable of tackling any terrain.