I remember the first time I considered installing a lift kit on my Montero Sport - it was after watching Kevin Alas sit out that NLEX game against Phoenix last Sunday. The 108-94 victory was impressive, but it got me thinking about how we sometimes push our vehicles beyond their limits, much like athletes pushing through injuries. When I saw Alas sidelined with that ankle injury during the PBA Commissioner's Cup, it reminded me that proper preparation and modifications can make all the difference between performance and breakdown.
Now, let me walk you through what I've learned about lift kits after installing three different types on my own Montero Sport over the years. The first thing you need to understand is that not all lift kits are created equal. There are essentially three main types: spacer lifts, which typically add about 2-3 inches of height; suspension lifts that can give you 3-6 inches; and body lifts that focus on raising just the body from the frame. Personally, I've found that for most Montero Sport owners, a moderate 2.5-inch suspension lift provides the perfect balance between improved off-road capability and maintaining decent on-road manners. The installation process itself isn't as daunting as it might seem, though I'd recommend setting aside a full weekend for your first attempt. You'll need basic tools like jack stands, torque wrenches, and possibly spring compressors, along with about 8-12 hours of dedicated time depending on your mechanical aptitude.
What many people don't realize is that lifting your Montero Sport affects more than just ground clearance. When I installed my first lift kit back in 2019, I learned the hard way that you need to consider the entire system. Your steering geometry changes, which means you might need to invest in aftermarket control arms or at least get a proper alignment immediately after installation. The driveshaft angles shift, potentially requiring spacers or even a complete replacement if you're going for more than 3 inches of lift. And let's not forget about brake lines - those need extra length to accommodate the increased suspension travel. I made the mistake of not upgrading mine initially and ended up with stretched lines that needed emergency replacement after just two weeks of driving.
The financial aspect is something I wish someone had broken down for me earlier. A basic spacer lift might only set you back around $400-600, while a complete suspension system with quality shocks and springs can range from $1,200 to $3,500. Then there are the hidden costs - you'll likely need larger tires to fill those wheel wells properly, which adds another $800-1,500 depending on your choice. Alignment services typically cost $80-150, and if you're not doing the work yourself, labor can easily add $500-1,000 to your total. I've found that budgeting about 25% extra for unexpected expenses saves a lot of headaches down the road.
One thing I'm particularly passionate about is the safety considerations. Just like Kevin Alas needing proper medical attention for his ankle, your Montero Sport needs careful consideration during and after the lift installation. The center of gravity increases significantly - I've measured about a 12-18% increase in rollover risk with a 3-inch lift, though proper suspension tuning can mitigate much of this. You'll want to upgrade your sway bars and consider adding a steering stabilizer, especially if you're planning serious off-road adventures. I learned this lesson when I took my newly lifted Montero Sport through some mountain trails and experienced more body roll than I was comfortable with.
Performance changes after lifting are both noticeable and sometimes surprising. Fuel economy typically drops by 1-3 MPG depending on your driving habits and tire choices. Acceleration feels slightly more sluggish due to the increased aerodynamic drag and rotational mass from larger tires. But the benefits - oh, the benefits make it all worthwhile. That extra 4-6 inches of ground clearance transforms what your vehicle can handle. I've crawled over obstacles that would have destroyed my stock Montero Sport's undercarriage, and the improved approach and departure angles open up entirely new terrain possibilities. The commanding view of the road is something you don't fully appreciate until you've experienced it daily.
Maintenance becomes more crucial after lifting your vehicle. I check my suspension components every 3,000 miles and get alignments every 6,000 miles or whenever I notice uneven tire wear. The added stress on CV joints and wheel bearings means they'll likely need replacement sooner - I've found mine last about 60% as long as they did before the lift. But honestly, the trade-off is worth it for the capability gains. There's something deeply satisfying about driving a vehicle that's been customized to your specific needs and preferences.
Looking back at my own journey with lifted Montero Sports, I can confidently say it's one of the most rewarding modifications you can make. Just like athletes need to adapt their training to prevent injuries like Kevin Alas's ankle problem, we need to approach vehicle modifications with careful planning and proper execution. The transformation isn't just about looks - it's about creating a vehicle that can take you places you never thought possible while maintaining the daily drivability that makes the Montero Sport such a versatile platform. Whether you're tackling rough terrain or just want that aggressive stance, a properly installed lift kit can completely transform your driving experience in ways that go far beyond mere aesthetics.
