Best Leveling Kit For 2017 Silverado 1500

So, you're looking to level your 2017 Silverado 1500? You've come to the right place. Leveling kits are a fantastic way to improve the look of your truck, allow for larger tires, and even enhance off-road performance, all without breaking the bank. But with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Let's break down the best leveling kits for your Silverado, focusing on what makes them good and how to choose the best one for your needs.

Understanding Leveling Kits: What They Do and Why They Matter

First, let's define what a leveling kit actually does. Most trucks, including your 2017 Silverado, have a factory rake – meaning the rear of the truck sits higher than the front. This is intentional, designed to prevent the truck from sagging when carrying a load or towing. A leveling kit aims to eliminate or reduce this rake, making the truck sit more level. This provides a more aggressive and balanced stance.

Think of it like this: Imagine a classic muscle car like a 1969 Camaro. If the front end sat noticeably lower than the rear, it would look a little… off. Leveling your truck provides a similar aesthetic improvement, creating a more visually appealing and even profile.

But the benefits go beyond looks. Leveling kits also allow you to install larger tires. A lifted front end provides the necessary clearance to accommodate bigger rubber, enhancing your truck's off-road capabilities and giving it a more imposing presence. Consider a Jeep Wrangler – adding a leveling kit and larger tires dramatically changes its off-road potential and overall appearance. The same applies to your Silverado.

Leveling kits achieve this by raising the front suspension of the truck. There are a few common methods used to accomplish this:

• Strut Spacers: These are the most common and generally the least expensive option. They are typically made of steel, aluminum, or polyurethane and are installed above or below the front struts. They effectively extend the strut length, lifting the front of the truck.
• Torsion Bar Keys: If your Silverado has torsion bar suspension (some older models may have this or models with specific suspension packages), you can adjust the torsion bar keys to increase the ride height. Leveling kits using new torsion bar keys allow for more precise adjustments.
• Coil Spring Spacers: Similar to strut spacers, these are installed between the coil spring and the spring perch.

Top Leveling Kit Options for Your 2017 Silverado 1500

Now, let's dive into some specific leveling kit recommendations. Keep in mind that the "best" kit depends on your budget, intended use, and desired ride quality.

Rough Country 2" Leveling Kit

Rough Country is a well-known brand in the truck and SUV aftermarket. Their 2" leveling kit is a popular choice for 2017 Silverado owners. It typically uses strut spacers and is known for its affordability and ease of installation. This kit provides a noticeable improvement in appearance and allows for slightly larger tires.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly.
• Relatively easy to install.
• Improves appearance.

Cons:

• May slightly affect ride quality (can feel a bit stiffer).
• Limited lift height compared to some other options.

Bilstein 5100 Series Ride Height Adjustable Struts

If you're looking for more than just a leveling kit and want to upgrade your suspension components at the same time, the Bilstein 5100 series is an excellent choice. These are not just spacers; they are complete replacement struts that offer adjustable ride height settings. This allows you to fine-tune the leveling of your truck.

Think of Bilstein like the Brembo of shock absorbers. Just as Brembo brakes are known for their superior performance and stopping power, Bilstein shocks are renowned for their excellent handling and ride quality.

Pros:

• Improved ride quality over stock struts.
• Adjustable ride height.
• Durable and long-lasting.

Cons:

• More expensive than strut spacers.
• Installation may be more involved (requires strut disassembly).

Readylift SST Lift Kit

ReadyLift offers a range of leveling kits, and their SST (Smart Suspension Technology) kits are a good balance of price and performance. These kits often include strut extensions and sometimes rear lift blocks to maintain a slight rake if desired. This is beneficial if you frequently tow or haul heavy loads.

Pros:

• Good balance of price and performance.
• May include rear lift components for a balanced look.
• Generally provides a comfortable ride.

Cons:

• More expensive than basic strut spacers.

Choosing the Right Kit for Your Needs

So, how do you decide which leveling kit is right for your 2017 Silverado? Here are some factors to consider:

• Budget: How much are you willing to spend? Strut spacers are the most affordable, while complete strut replacements like the Bilstein 5100s are more expensive.
• Intended Use: Do you primarily drive on the street, or do you frequently go off-road? If you're mostly on the street, a basic strut spacer kit may suffice. For off-road use, consider a kit with improved shocks and struts.
• Tire Size: What size tires do you want to run? Different leveling kits provide different amounts of lift. Make sure the kit you choose provides enough clearance for your desired tire size. Consult online tire size calculators and forums to see what others are running with similar setups.
• Installation Difficulty: Are you comfortable installing the kit yourself, or will you need to hire a professional? Strut spacers are generally easier to install than complete strut replacements. Factor in the cost of labor if you plan to have it professionally installed.
• Ride Quality: Do you prioritize ride comfort? Strut spacers can sometimes make the ride a bit stiffer. Upgrading to better shocks and struts will generally improve ride quality.

Installation Tips and Considerations

Whether you're installing the leveling kit yourself or having it done professionally, here are some important considerations:

• Proper Tools: Make sure you have the necessary tools, including a good jack, jack stands, wrenches, sockets, and potentially a spring compressor (if you're replacing the struts).
• Torque Specs: Follow the manufacturer's torque specifications when tightening bolts. Improperly tightened bolts can lead to serious problems.
• Alignment: After installing a leveling kit, it's absolutely essential to get a wheel alignment. Leveling the truck changes the suspension geometry, which can throw off the alignment. A proper alignment will ensure even tire wear and optimal handling.
• Safety First: Always prioritize safety. Use jack stands to support the truck and wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
• Read the Instructions: Carefully read and understand the installation instructions before you begin.

Practical Takeaways

Here's what you need to remember when choosing and installing a leveling kit for your 2017 Silverado 1500:

• Understand the Purpose: Leveling kits eliminate the factory rake, improve appearance, and allow for larger tires.
• Consider Your Needs: Choose a kit based on your budget, intended use, desired tire size, and installation capabilities.
• Don't Skimp on Quality: While budget-friendly options are available, investing in a higher-quality kit can improve ride quality and durability.
• Alignment is Crucial: Always get a wheel alignment after installing a leveling kit.
• Safety First: Follow proper safety procedures during installation.

By considering these factors, you can confidently choose the best leveling kit for your 2017 Silverado 1500 and enjoy the benefits of a more level, aggressive, and capable truck. Happy leveling!