Dirt King Testing 4G Shocks, Control Arms & More

rustytaco · 2026-03-17T06:24:23+00:00

So... I wasn't originally going to take it this far, but things happen, lol. I had the chance to go down to work with the Backwoods guys on a new project they're about to wrap up for the 4th Gens - rear bumpers. This is technically a bolt-on option, however, you have the option of cutting your hitch/crossmember off to gain a few more inches of clearance. Around 4" if I remember correctly. That's quite a lot of clearance. If you've taken your truck off-road, you might already know the departure angle isn't the best and the low hanging hitch literally drags on everything. When I first heard about the frame modification, without a high clearance bed portion (meaning cutting the end of the bed for a true "high-clearance rear), I wasn't quite sure if it was the move. But once I saw the final prototype on the Backwoods truck, and how much I would gain, I decided to make the jump. And I'm real glad I did. The final result is super clean and the rear end is starting to see some big improvements. And if you're wondering, yes, you still get a hitch receiver. It's under the license plate (I need to get a spring loaded bracket). So you're still able to tow. The bumper with all the reinforcements and frame contact points is definitely as strong, if not stronger than the OEM member. A swing out option is tentatively planned for the future, but ETA is still TBD. https://backwoodsadventuremods.com/ No direct link quite yet, but you can sign up for their email list to get notified when they're ready to purchase. The rough estimate is summer/fall. A quick shot from my trip back home through Missouri...

rustytaco

Administrator

Staff member

Feb 19, 2025

Check it out. Got some photos from Dirt King from their test runs in the desert on their new 2.5 coilovers and shocks they're going to release soon. The kit includes rear springs that are developed alongside the rear shocks for the best performance. The truck is also running their other prototypes for rear links, billet UCAs and their signature lowers. This is basically an example of the best you can do with mid-travel bolt-on components.

A few images below with the truck air born and bottoming out. The owner/president said once properly equipped, the 4G platform has some seriously good potential.

I ran DK's suspension on my 3G build for 4 years. Everything was top notch. They have a killer reputation.

If you want to win a set of these, check out their ongoing giveaway! Two full suspensions with UCAs up for grabs.