10 Best Lift Kits for Chevy Silverado 1500 – Buyer’s Guide

I compared all the top-rated lift kits & suspension systems for Chevy Silverado 1500 and divided them by year. Here is the list of the best lift kits for Chevy Silverado 1500.

How to improve the off-road quality of my vehicle? That’s what every truck owner thinks about. Everything seems quite simple – you need large wheels. But how hard is it to install them? What kind of modifications will be needed? What are the consequences of such alterations? This guide will help you understand all of these nuances. Note that the thickness of lift spacers listed below and lift is not a 1 x 1 ratio due to the suspension geometry.

A list of Best Lift Kits for Chevy Silverado 1500

ImageProduct
Best Suspension System for Silverado 1500
Rough Country 28330 review
Rough Country 28330
  • Perfect performance, protection, and style mix
  • Increased ground clearance
  • Easy bolt-on installation
  • Up to 32″ tires
  • Aggressive look and taller stance
  • Gain: 1.5-2 in
  • Years: 1999-2006

Check Price
Best Suspension Lift Kit For Chevy 1500
MotoFab Lifts CH-3F-2R review
MotoFab Lifts CH-3F-2R
  • 3″ front and 2″ rear lift
  • Billet black powder-coated aluminum
  • Easy 1.5-2 hours installation
  • Does not require strut/coil disassembly
  • Long-lasting finish
  • Gain: 2-3 in.
  • Years: 2007-2018

Check Price
Lift Kit for Chevy Silverado 1500 4WD
Air Lift 57204 review
Air Lift 57204
  • Up to 5,000 lbs of load-leveling capacity
  • Eliminates squat, trailer sway, rough ride, and bottoming out
  • Fits 1/2 ton pickup trucks
  • Perfect for commercial trucks, wreckers, ambulances, construction and utility trucks.
  • Boosted safety and comfort when hauling massive loads
  • Gain: 1 in.
  • Years: 2007-2017

Check Price
2007-2019 Silverado/Sierra Lift Kit
Dynofit FF-L001-3 review
Dynofit FF-L001-3
  • Easy installation (1-2 hours)
  • No special tools needed
  • High corrosion resistance
  • Black anodized surface
  • Improved ground balance
  • Gain: 3 in.
  • Years: 2007-2019

Check Price
Lift Kit for Chevy Silverado 1500 4WD
YITAMOTOR W01-Q048-xS1e review
YITAMOTOR W01-Q048-xS1e
  • Easy Installation
  • Forged aluminum alloy
  • Expert 10.9-grade studs
  • Corrosion-resistant anodized surface
  • High-quality premium Material
  • Gain: 2-3 in.
  • Years: 2008-2017

Check Price
Best for 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500
ADPOW CZ194 review
ADPOW CZ194
  • 2-3-hour installation
  • No strut/coil disassembly needed
  • Heat-treated and hardened 10.9-grade pre-installed bolts
  • Increased corrosion resistance
  • Lightweight and strong spacers
  • Gain: 2-3 in.
  • Years: 2007-2019

Check Price
Lift Kit for Silverado 1500 4×4
LHE LHE-CH3F2 review
LHE LHE-CH3F2
  • Increased ground clearance
  • CNC-machined aircraft billet aluminum
  • T6-treated with anodized black
  • Fabricated steel tapered blocks, black powder-coated
  • Gain: 2-3 in.
  • Years: 2007-2018

Check Price
2007-2017 Lift Kit for 1500 Silverado
ECCPP 110439-5211-0938002461 review
ECCPP 110439-5211-0938002461
  • Machine-manufactured from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum billet
  • Steering comfort
  • Additional larger tires/wheels clearance
  • Noticeable aggressive look
  • Perfectly leveled front and rear
  • Gain: 2-3 in.
  • Years: 2007-2017

Check Price
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Lift Kit
Supreme Suspensions AZM 440(3R)(650) pro blk review
Supreme Suspensions AZM 440(3R)(650) pro blk
  • T6 aircraft aluminum spacers
  • Perfect strength-to-weight ration
  • Corrosion resistance
  • Anodized coating
  • Designed to withstand intense loads (up to 60.000 lbs) and hardcore conditions
  • Gain: 3.5 in.
  • Years: 2007-2020

Check Price
Perfect 2007-2010 Silverado Lift Kit
AKM akmlift003 review
AKM akmlift003
  • High-quality CNC-machined spacers
  • Easy bolt-on installation (1-2 hours)
  • No cutting or factory parts modifying needed
  • Improved ground clearance and look
  • Lifetime technical support
  • Gain: 2.5 in.
  • Years: 2007-2018

Check Price

Review of Top Lift Kits for Chevy Silverado 1500

1. Rough Country 28330 – Best Suspension System for Silverado 1500

[img_block amz_url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008R53CTQ/?tag=cartime0e-20″ img_url=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71pToO3RxYL._AC_SL1500_.jpg” prod_name=”Rough Country 28330″]

This 1.5″-2.5″ leveling kit from Rough Country for Silverado 1500 is everything you need to run up to 32″ tires with factory backspacing. Give your Silverado the aggressive new look and turn in into a leveled truck with a taller stance.

This high-quality and easy-to-install (100% bolt-on installation process) key set was designed to allow fine-tuning of the torsion bar and leveling the front of your vehicle with the rear. The installation process can be done solely by yourself or you address your local car shop and save your money.

The strong Forged Torsion keys have a 1″ adjustable range to allow for the desired angle. The components of the kit are more durable than cast-iron, providing incredible strength to keep everything locked in place. Fine-tune your torsion bar and raise your truck up to 1.5″ or the front to full 2.5″. A lifetime warranty is included.

Specifications

  • 2.5″ leveling kit
  • Premium N3 shock absorbers
  • Weight – 41.9 lbs
  • Dimensions – 24.8 x 13.5 x 6.8
  • Forged torsion bar adjuster keys
  • Shock spacers
  • 3″ lift blocks
  • U-bolts
  • Hardware
  • Appr. installation time – 2.5 hours

Features

  • Perfect performance, protection, and style mix
  • Increased ground clearance
  • Easy bolt-on installation
  • Up to 32″ tires
  • Aggressive look and taller stance
  • 100% bolt-on installation
  • Levels the front with the rear of the vehicle
  • Forged torsion bar adjusting keys
  • Improved on and off-road performance
  • Durable and long fabricated blocks
  • Affordable price
  • Lifetime warranty

2. MotoFab Lifts CH-3F-2R – Best Suspension Lift Kit For Chevy 1500

[img_block amz_url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0156T83UI/?tag=cartime0e-20″ img_url=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61zE8PkDiZL._AC_SL1500_.jpg” prod_name=”MotoFab Lifts CH-3F-2R”]


This lift kit model was proudly made in the USA and backed by a lifetime warranty to make you fully enjoy driving your Silverado for years with no worries. You can raise your truck by full 3″ in the front and 2″ in the rear with no problems. The installation process will not take that much time or require any coil/strut disassembly – it can all be done in around 2-3 hours.

You will need sockets (10/13/15/18/21 mm), a 15 mm wrench, crowbar, screwdriver, air rachet, and hammer.

However, it will be wise to have another pair of hands with you there to help. The front spacers are made of high-quality billet aluminum and powder-coated black to match your stock suspension.

Many experts say this particular lift kit is the best thing to improve performance and provide a new aggressive look to your truck. The price is fairly low and the quality is more than you expect. This model is compatible with 2007-2018 Chevrolet & GM 1500 Pickups

Specifications

  • Weight – 21.5 lbs
  • Dimensions – 8″ x 8″ x 6″
  • Hardware included

Features

  • 3″ front and 2″ rear lift
  • Billet black powder-coated aluminum
  • Easy 1.5-2 hours installation
  • Does not require strut/coil disassembly
  • Long-lasting finish
  • Made in the USA
  • Low price
  • Lifetime warranty

3. Air Lift 57204 – Lift Kit for Chevy Silverado 1500 4WD

[img_block amz_url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IX0CTBW/?tag=cartime0e-20″ img_url=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61hSanok0gL._AC_SL1206_.jpg” prod_name=”Air Lift 57204″]


This load lifter kit is Air Lift’s heaviest rated kit. Engineered and built with reinforced rubber bellows and ultra-strong end caps, it’s load-leveling capacity is impressive – 5000 lbs. You will only need two hours (or less) to install the springs. You have a fully-illustrated installation guide as well as all hardware you may need to be included in the kit.

The Air Lift springs will surely remove squat/sway and reduce tire wear, improving your steering and braking. These air springs are backed with a lifetime warranty and allow for precise truck height adjustment for accurate alignment. The air springs were designed and built in the USA to keep your Silverado’s tires on the road and absorb all bumps.

Your ride will surely get more comfortable and safer with this kit which fits 1/2-, 3/4-, and 1-ton pickup trucks and vans to haul massive loads. You can inflate your truck when carrying heavy loads and deflate when running empty. Boost your safety and comfort, and ensure your vehicle is always level and stable with Air Lift!

Specifications

  • Dimensions – 9.5 x 14.5 x 10.75
  • Weight – 25 lbs
  • 2 air springs
  • All hardware needed for installation included
  • Fully-illustrated installation guide
  • Compatible with Chevy Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500
  • Made in the USA

Features

  • Up to 5,000 lbs of load-leveling capacity
  • Eliminates squat, trailer sway, rough ride, and bottoming out
  • Fits 1/2 ton pickup trucks
  • Perfect for commercial trucks, wreckers, ambulances, construction and utility trucks.
  • Boosted safety and comfort when hauling massive loads
  • 2-hour easy installation
  • Lifetime warranty

4. Dynofit FF-L001-3 – 2007-2019 Silverado/Sierra Lift Kit

[img_block amz_url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078RLD85G/?tag=cartime0e-20″ img_url=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51f8C0LGSnL._AC_SL1200_.jpg” prod_name=”Dynofit FF-L001-3″]


Everything is plain simple when it comes to these reliable and low-cost 3″ corrosion-resistant front spacers. You don’t have to worry about anything, especially about leveling your Silverado truck. After 2-3 hours of work with no special tools, you will be totally happy with the result that these spacers made of forged aluminum billet with the black anodized surface can provide.

The kit also includes 12.9-grade premium bolts. Expect better ground clearance, improved ground balance, and 2 years of trouble proof service. 2″ and 2.5″ spacer kits are also available. Fits 07-19 Chevy Silverado 1500 2WD/4WD and 07-19 GMC Sierra 1500.

Specifications

  • Weight – 8.2 lbs
  • 2 front strut spacers
  • Pro Shock-proof box
  • 3″ front leveling lift kit
  • 12.9-grade premium bolts

Features

  • Easy installation (1-2 hours)
  • No special tools needed
  • High corrosion resistance
  • Black anodized surface
  • Improved ground balance
  • High-class materials (forged aluminum billet)
  • 2-year warranty
  • Low price

5. YITAMOTOR W01-Q048-xS1e – Lift Kit for 2008-2015-2018 Silverado 1500

[img_block amz_url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071G83R5V/?tag=cartime0e-20″ img_url=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71RmLYW94RL._AC_SL1200_.jpg” prod_name=”YITAMOTOR W01-Q048-xS1e”]


All the heavy-duty elements in this kit were precisely machined and heat-tempered for increased safety and stability. If you aim for precise leveling of your Silverado’s front and rear, comfort, better steering, and an aggressive stance this, not so popular but reliable, kit is something you should consider for sure.

Many car enthusiasts say that you don’t really have to look for famous brands when it comes to leveling kits as they use just the same materials for manufacturing their products. The cost is higher, though. The installation process will not take you more than 2 hours. The kit comes with everything you need for 100% bold-on installation.

The elements are manufactured from steel and 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum billet with re-installed heat-treated and hardened 10.9-grade bolts. This kit guarantees better handling and overall comfortable ride. Make sure that your factory blocks are removed before installing new rear blocks.

Specifications

  • 2 pcs lift spacers
  • Front lift – 3″ (1.7″ thickness)
  • Rear lift – 2″ (3″ thickness)
  • Material – 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum billet, steel
  • U-Blots are made steel
  • Fits 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 and 2007-2018 GMC Sierra 1500
  • Individually-wrapped lug nuts
  • Retail packaging
  • 2-year warranty

Features

  • Easy Installation
  • Forged aluminum alloy
  • Expert 10.9-grade studs
  • Corrosion-resistant anodized surface
  • High-quality premium Material
  • Original brand guarantee
  • Precise leveling and rake eliminate
  • Enhanced vehicle look
  • More even stance
  • Extra ground clearance
  • Larger tires & wheels
  • Pre-installed bolt-on studs
  • CNC-machined billet aluminum construction
  • Maximum strength, boosted safety, and stability
  • Better handling
  • Precisely-machined heavy-duty elements
  • Low price

6. ADPOW CZ194 – Best for 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500

[img_block amz_url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GRKW5YW/?tag=cartime0e-20″ img_url=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61IdqbOcsbL._AC_SL1001_.jpg” prod_name=”ADPOW CZ194″]


The leveling kit from ADPOW offers high-quality elements and a fair price. If you want that extra clearance for your Silverado truck as well as 3″ front and 2″ rear lift, smoothness, and a new aggressive look – you can have it all with this kit! The installation process is a snap, compared to some other kits, and takes you only about 2-3 hours.

No strut-coil disassembly required. You have the 6.1″ x 2″ x 3″ CNC-machined front spacers made of 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum billet and powder-coated black to match your stock suspension. Moreover, the lightweight and strong spacers come with heat-treated and hardened 10.9-grade pre-installed bolts.

Then the kit also includes powder-coated (increased corrosion resistance) rear lift blocks and extended U-bolts of premium quality. Many Silverado owners say this kit is one of the strongest on the market, which is backed by a 100% guarantee and 2-year warranty. Fits 07-19 Chevy Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500.

Specifications

  • U-bolt size – 0.6″ x 10.7″
  • Spacer size – 6.1″ x 2″ x 3″
  • Lift block size – 5.2″ x 3″ x 2.5″
  • Weight – 22 lbs
  • Material – 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum billet
  • Front lift – 3″
  • Rear lift – 2″
  • 2-years warranty

Features

  • 2-3-hour installation
  • No strut/coil disassembly needed
  • Heat-treated and hardened 10.9-grade pre-installed bolts
  • Increased corrosion resistance
  • Lightweight and strong spacers
  • CNC-machined (billet aluminum) and black powder-coated front spacers
  • Extended U-bolts and fabricated rear lift blocks
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
  • Low price

7. LHE LHE-CH3F2 – Lift Kit for Silverado 1500 4×4

[img_block amz_url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KY533B7/?tag=cartime0e-20″ img_url=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71YPxqTDXcL._AC_SL1500_.jpg” prod_name=”LHE LHE-CH3F2″]


The final leveling kit on our list is from the LHE brand. Sooner or later, almost any truck owner starts to think about increasing its clearance. There may be a number of reasons for this: to install larger diameter wheels, increase cross-country ability, or simply make your truck look more aggressive. Everything from the mentioned is possible with the LHE lift kit.

You can effortlessly level your front by 3″ and your rear by 2″ using these high-quality spacers made from CNC-machined aircraft billet aluminum and lift blocks respectively. The main advantage of this procedure is that it does not reduce the life of your vehicle. Suspension, steering, driving comfort – everything works even better!

Specifications

  • Weight – 19.8 lbs
  • 2 3″ front spacers
  • 2 2″ rear lift blocks
  • 4 U-bolts with hardware
  • Fits 07-18 Chevy Silverado 1500 & GMC Sierra 1500

Features

  • Increased ground clearance
  • CNC-machined aircraft billet aluminum
  • T6-treated with anodized black
  • Fabricated steel tapered blocks, black powder-coated

8. ECCPP 110439-5211-0938002461 – 2007-2017 Lift Kit for 1500 Silverado

[img_block amz_url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079NQZKW6/?tag=cartime0e-20″ img_url=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61YfxqUSr0L._AC_SL1000_.jpg” prod_name=”ECCPP 110439-5211-0938002461″]


This blue leveling kit from a professional supplier of auto parts is made from 6061 T6 aircraft aluminum billet and 10.9-grade bolts to match your suspension color and provide an aggressive look for your Silverado.

ECCPP produces high-quality vehicle accessories since 2005, and always maintains high-quality elements in its lines. Plus, should you have any questions, a friendly ECCPP customer service is ready to help.

This particular leveling lift kit for Chevy/GMC includes 3″ spacers and 2″ rear lift blocks as well as pre-installed heat-treated and hardened 10.9-grade bolts for perfect leveling, steering, and driving comfort.

The parts were machine-manufactured from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum billet and not only provide an aggressive look to your truck but also require no strut pre-loading, cutting or modifying. The kit increases ground clearance and maintains the factory ride quality.

You will also be able to switch to larger tires after installing the kit to improve ground clearance. The installation process will not take more than 3 hours and is fairly easy (100% bolt-on).

Specifications

  • 3″ front spacers
  • 2″ rear lift blocks
  • Weight – 18.15 pounds

Features

  • Machine-manufactured from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum billet
  • Steering comfort
  • Additional larger tires/wheels clearance[note]https://blog.racetechnologies.com/2015/07/31/how-to-measure-your-wheel-for-proper-brake-clearance/[/note]
  • Noticeable aggressive look
  • Perfectly leveled front and rear
  • Simple 100% bolt-on installation
  • Heat-treated and hardened 10.9-grade bolts pre-installed
  • Improved corrosion resistance
  • Durable and lightweight spacers
  • No strut pre-loading, cutting or modifying needed
  • Friendly customer service

9. Supreme Suspensions AZM 440(3R)(650) pro blk – Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Lift Kit

[img_block amz_url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IOAHI5S/?tag=cartime0e-20″ img_url=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61sbtbRCBEL._AC_SL1200_.jpg” prod_name=”Supreme Suspensions AZM 440(3R)(650) pro blk”]


Supreme Suspensions is a well-known and trusted manufacturer in the industry. Their Pro-Billet series full lifts are the easiest and most dependable solutions for lifting your truck and provide a new great look to it. All their components are precision-machined with the latest technologies and finished with an advanced coating that will last your Silverado’s lifespan longer.

Take their newly designed extended OEM spec zinc-plated U-bolts, for instance – they are 5 times more corrosion-resistant than your vehicle stock hardware, plus, they have a unique galvanized finish. This lift kit allows you to use larger custom rims and tires for your Silverado truck.

Just like the other kits from Supreme Suspensions, this one includes high-quality elements to precisely lift and level your vehicle, providing a more aggressive look to it.

Other steel struts and blocks are cut-out and welded together, which can’t be said about Pro-Billet kits – they are crafted from solid blocks and will never bend or deform when under high pressure. This set will lower your Silverado’s front differential to reduce the excess wear on CV joints and axles while adjusting the skid plate location and preventing any damage to your truck parts.

Every detail of this kit was machined from 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum, then an anodized coating is applied to protect from rust and corrosion. Supreme Suspensions complete this kit with their high-grade hardware keeping your parts safe and secure. Whatever your lifting needs, Supreme Suspensions has you covered! 3.5″ x 1″; 3.5″ x 1.5″; and 3.5″ x 2″ (front x rear) kits are also available.

Specifications

  • Suspension lift kit
  • Dimensions – 12″ x 9.8″ x 7″
  • Weight – 20 lbs
  • 3.5″ front lift
  • 3″ rear lift
  • Fits 6-lug models only
  • 2 front strut spacers
  • 2 front bottom strut spacers
  • 2 rear lift tapered blocks
  • 4 square bend u-bolts
  • 2 axle alignment shims
  • High-grade installation hardware
  • Installation instructions
  • Supreme suspensions Pro Pack
  • Fits 2007-2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 6-Lug and 2007 – 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 6-Lug

Features

  • T6 aircraft aluminum spacers
  • Perfect strength-to-weight ration
  • Corrosion resistance
  • Anodized coating
  • Designed to withstand intense loads (up to 60.000 lbs) and hardcore conditions
  • High-density Delrin bottom strut spacers
  • Heavy-duty steel lift blocks (2019 Lightweight Structure)
  • 1/4″ thick CC plasma cut center support structure
  • Perfect stability and fitment
  • Zinc phosphate-coated U-bolts
  • Increased ground clearance
  • Improved aggressive look
  • Easy bolt-on installation (3-6 hours)
  • No special tools are needed

10. AKM akmlift003 – Perfect 2007-2010 Silverado Lift Kit

[img_block amz_url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PSFRR1X/?tag=cartime0e-20″ img_url=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51euHvEtCYL._AC_SL1001_.jpg” prod_name=”AKM akmlift003″]


This front lift kit from AKM is a real treasure for those who want to raise their Silverado by a true 2.5″. The geometric cross-country ability of your truck will be improved even on standard wheels. Your truck’s departure angles and longitudinal passability will be increased.

This kit can be mounted in about 1.5-2 hours and does not require strut/coil disassembly, cutting or factory parts modifying. You will also need no special tools for the installation process. The front spacers are CNC-machined out of billet aluminum and then powder-coated limited edition red. The quality of this kit is much higher compared to other spacers that crack over time.

You get improved ground clearance and a new look for your Silverado. Moreover, buying this low-cost kit will also let you have access to lifetime technical support, which can be really useful in case you will any questions.

AKM guarantee preserved OEM ride quality, durable and corrosion-resistant elements, improved ground clearance, preserved full articulation of front suspension, and larger custom rims/tires fitment.

Specifications

  • Front leveling lift kit
  • Weight – 6.69 pounds
  • Dimensions – 6.6″ x 6.5″ x 4.1″
  • Front lift – 2.5″
  • Fits 07-18 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 2WD/4WD

Features

  • High-quality CNC-machined spacers
  • Easy bolt-on installation (1-2 hours)
  • No cutting or factory parts modifying needed
  • Improved ground clearance and look
  • Lifetime technical support
  • Preserved OEM ride quality
  • Durable and corrosion-resistant elements
  • Improved ground clearance
  • Preserved full articulation of the front suspension
  • Larger custom rims/tires fitment
  • No special tools required
  • Low price

Best Lift Kits for Chevy Silverado 1500 – Buyer’s Guide

Everyone has, probably, once heard about body/suspension lift. However, only a few have a clear idea of what it really is.

Let’s first define what the “lift” is. Two options are available. The first one is lifting the body over the frame, and the second one is lifting the whole truck above the road at the expense of the suspension. The first option is called a “body lift”, the second is a “suspension lift.”

Which one to choose? Everything is individual and specific in every case. Besides, sometimes, both options are used simultaneously. In such a case, you can install large wheels without affecting the overall performance of the vehicle.

A body lift will increase the space in the wheel arches, which allows you to install larger wheels. A suspension lift not only gives a similar increase but also lifts the entire vehicle over the road.

The geometric cross-country ability of the truck gets improved even on standard wheels. Departure angles, longitudinal passability, and ride comfort levels are increased.

Why do they install large wheels? Big wheels increase the clearance of the vehicle and improve the ability to overcome vertical obstacles. As simple as it is – the bigger the wheel, the easier it is to roll over a large stone, log, pit, or rail. In addition, contact with the ground increases.

A suspension lift can be considered one of the most successful ways to increase the vehicle’s cross-country ability. The lift not only raises the body above the road surface but also improves the driving qualities of the vehicle as well as its off-road capabilities.

Lifts are different, the configuration depends on both the suspension and body designs. However, it all comes down to replacing elastic parts of the suspension. A lift provides for the installation of long-stroke springs. If the suspension is sprung, additional spacers and lift blocks are placed between the springs and frame.

A suspension lift provides for the need to install new (parabolic) springs with a high bend.

There are also ready-made leveling lift kits for a suspension lift, some include a sub-frame that is installed between the suspension and frame of a vehicle. Simpler lift kits, as in our list below, usually only include front spacers, rear lift blocks, U-bolts, and required hardware. The beauty of such kits is that the suspension remains intact and the clearance increase is up to 3″.

After the installation process, you will most likely have to install spacers under the ball bearing. The springs themselves remain untouched, just install special spacers underneath them.

To achieve the “golden mean”, it is best to give your truck a small suspension/body lift, close to the standard parameters.

You can, of course, perform a qualitative suspension lift yourself (you will need 2- 4 hours on average). However, if you are not sure about your skills, better avoid any risking and contact car experts – they have both the necessary knowledge and appropriate tools for such work. Plus, you will most likely get a quality assurance for the work after it’s done.

Pros and Cons of a Suspension Lift

Pros

  • Increased axle stroke.
  • Entire vehicle lift.
  • Increased geometric cross-country ability.
  • Opportunity to install larger wheels and, thereby, increasing the clearance.
  • If a suspension lift is made, the departure angles increase, which allows you to storm a fairly mountainous terrain.
  • The truck looks serious and aggressive, standing out in the road.

Cons

  • Price and work complexity (for some).
  • Increased center of gravity, which can lead to the truck’s tipping over.
  • The installation of large wheels increases fuel consumption. Sometimes, by 30-40%.

When making a suspension lift, pay special attention to the work of drive shafts. Due to inclination angle extreme changes, the wear of the shafts increases. The greater the angle, the greater the wear. As a rule, the most wear occurs in the driveshaft slip joint.

You may need to install additional castor kits. The working range of the ball and tip ranges will also change, shock-absorption will decrease as well as the torsion tensioners will fail, after which, the vehicle will start to nod off.

If you need to increase the space in the arches, a body lift is a good idea. After this procedure, you will be able to install larger diameter wheels, compared to stock ones. The main advantage of a body lift is that it retains the suspension geometry and, in the case of independent suspension, the angles of the working drives.

If you need a large body lift, get ready to remake a lot of aggregates – you will have to lengthen a steering shaft, cables, hoses, wiring, brackets, and bumpers. You will also have to replace the radiator because the airflow from the modified radiator will not get under the cooler.

Off-road vehicles with a load-bearing body (i.e. not body-on-frame SUVs) can’t be modified with a body lift. But if you have an insatiable desire to install large-diameter wheels and a complete lack of desire to interfere in the suspension, it is better to increase the size of the frames.

For this purpose, they can be cut – this will save you from problems related to the wheels rubbing against the inner parts of the arches during turns. Some SUVs have an independent front suspension, not a continuous axle. You can raise the front of the vehicle slightly twisting the torsions. But it’s not that easy.

The first problem is that the twisted torsion can just crack through the overly twisted torsion, the second problem is that you will feel every roughness of the road through the stops. The question is, which is more important, your butt or the lift?

Conclusion

Lifting your vehicle’s suspension is an opportunity to increase ground clearance through modification. The best way to do this is to use a factory-made and manufacturer-approved leveling lift kit. At the same time, vehicles with a load-bearing body can only be lifted by remodeling their suspension. There are several ways to lift a vehicle by modifying the suspension.

The work to be done depends on the design of the vehicle and suspension, as well as the purpose of modification. You have to remember that the incidence angle of the prop shaft changes with a suspension lift. The fact is that it has its own angle, in relation to the axles, and transfer case in which they can work, and, as a consequence, there is accelerated wear and tear of spline joints.

Also, after the lift, it may be necessary to adjust the kingpin angle by installing the kit castor, which allows you to adjust the angle of units.

The cost of these works is quite high, plus they are labor-intensive because, after the work on lifting the suspension, the center of gravity is also raised. Due to the latter, the body roll is increased, and the vehicle becomes less steerable.

Although, on rough terrains, due to the lifting of lower transmission components, e.g. axles, as well as with large suspension lift and increased ground clearance, cross-country ability increases. Why? Because the higher the vehicle, the greater the obstacles it can overcome, significantly increasing climbing and descending angles.

It can be quite problematic to implement a suspension lift on your own due to the need for tools and skills to perform all the work, so it is better to contact an expert team who has the necessary knowledge, skills, tools, and understanding of what to do in each case.