Lift / Leveling Kits

Lift Kits vs. Leveling Kits. Which One Is Right For You?

What's the Difference?

Both Lift Kits and Leveling Kits are designed to raise the truck body away from the axles to fit larger tires and increase ground clearance.

There is a lot to consider when choosing a lift kit. The make and model of your vehicle, the height you want to achieve, and of course your budget!

These factors will guide your decision, and we are happy to help!

Leveling Kits

A leveling kit is usually designed to provide a maximum lift of about 2 inches in the front.

It involves hardware to slightly raise the front of the vehicle so it matches the stock height in the back.

If a stock-style stance is desired, front-end leveling kits can be paired with spacer blocks on the rear leaf springs to provide a slight lift at all four corners.

Leveling kits are also very simple and usually only require spring spacers or torsion keys to get the job done.

Leveling Kit
Advantages

One of the biggest advantages of leveling a truck is that it allows for larger-than-stock tires to be run on all four corners.

While most pickups have plenty of clearance in the rear, up front larger tires can hit the inside of the fender or bumper when turning, and a slight increase in height is just what the doctor ordered for this type of issue.

Also, if a heavy weight like a plow or winch is added to the front of the truck, the suspension may sag, giving a ride height that is even lower than stock.

In this case, a leveling kit can be used to bring the front end back up to its proper height. Leveling kits are inexpensive, and very easy to install.

Lift Kits

Lift kits raise the truck much higher into the air with modified suspension parts and can be purchased from 2”- 4” 6”- 8” and even 10-inch kits or taller if the buyer wants to go custom.

Lift kits, often referred to as suspension systems, are much more comprehensive than leveling kits and will feature new springs, shocks, control arms, and whatever else is needed to maintain the desired height.

Often, new driveshafts must be made, and brake lines must be bent in addition to the suspension pieces, so the larger lift kits are usually quite involved.

Lift Kit Advantages

Lift kits are very useful when going off-road. Whether it's through rocks, mud, or deep snow, having larger tires and better ground clearance are advantages for lifting a truck.

If you choose to run very large wheels and tires, such as 37-inch tires on 20-inch wheels, only a lift kit will be able to clear the rubber and allow the vehicle to ride and handle properly.

Also, many newer trucks are built with low-to-the-ground features that make them handle like a car.

A lift kit keeps all these mechanical and body parts from being mangled when the road gets rough. Lift kits are also very useful when going off-road.

Whether it's through rocks, mud, or in deep snow, having larger tires, more suspension travel, and better ground clearance are very large pros for lifting a truck.

The Facts About Lifting & Leveling Kits

LEVELING KIT

Height Increase: 1 to 2 inches
Fits: 33- to 35-inch tires
Good For: Daily driving, sled pulling, towing, off-road use

LIFT KIT

Height Increase: 2 to 10 inches
Fits: 35- to 40-inch tires
Good For: Mud, sand, snow, style, ground clearance

WHAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU

If you are modifying for a tow or work truck, a leveling kit may be right for you. If you are off-roading in the mud, snow, or rugged terrain for work or play, then a lift kit may be your answer.

Either way, a lift or leveling kit is one of the few modifications that is sure to add style and value to your vehicle. So do some research, and figure out which one works for you.

Certain lift kits can and will change the performance and handling of your vehicle, not to mention effect your gas mileage as much as 20%. Make sure you consult with a Tint Works Technician about the pros and cons of either kit you choose.