How To Install A Leveling Kit

The allure of a leveled truck, a stance that eradicates the factory rake and presents a balanced profile, is undeniable. While often perceived as a purely aesthetic upgrade, installing a leveling kit involves a careful interplay of geometry, suspension dynamics, and mechanical aptitude. This guide delves into the technical aspects of leveling kit installation, focusing on the 'how' and, more importantly, the 'why' behind each step.

Understanding Leveling Kits: Beyond the Aesthetic

Before diving into the practicalities, it's crucial to understand what a leveling kit actually does. Most modern trucks are designed with a slight forward rake, meaning the rear sits higher than the front. This is intentional, meant to compensate for payload weight in the bed, maintaining a relatively level ride height when loaded. However, many owners prefer the look of a perfectly horizontal stance, leading to the popularity of leveling kits.

A leveling kit typically consists of spacers or modified suspension components that raise the front of the vehicle. The amount of lift achieved varies, usually ranging from 1 to 3 inches. The simplest kits utilize coil spring spacers, which are installed on top of or inside the coil springs, effectively preloading the spring and increasing ride height. More sophisticated kits might include strut extensions or even complete replacement struts and springs.

Types of Leveling Kits: A Comparative Overview

The choice of leveling kit depends largely on the desired lift height, budget, and vehicle application. Here's a breakdown of common types:

• Coil Spring Spacers: These are the most affordable and easiest to install. They simply add height to the existing coil spring. However, they can sometimes lead to a slightly harsher ride due to increased spring preload.
• Strut Extensions: These bolt onto the top of the strut assembly, effectively lengthening it. They are a good option for moderate lift heights and generally maintain a ride quality similar to stock.
• Complete Strut/Spring Assemblies: These replace the entire strut and spring assembly with a longer unit. They offer the best ride quality and performance, but are also the most expensive option.
• Torsion Bar Keys (for vehicles with torsion bar suspension): These replace the factory torsion bar keys, allowing for increased preload and ride height adjustment.

The Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The following instructions provide a general overview of leveling kit installation. Always consult the specific instructions provided with your kit, as procedures may vary depending on the vehicle and kit design.

Tools and Materials Required:

• Jack and Jack Stands
• Wheel Chocks
• Socket Set (Metric and/or SAE)
• Wrench Set (Metric and/or SAE)
• Torque Wrench
• Spring Compressor (if required by the kit)
• Ball Joint Separator (pickle fork or ball joint press)
• Hammer
• Penetrating Oil
• Safety Glasses
• Gloves

Procedure:

1. Preparation: Begin by parking the vehicle on a level surface and engaging the parking brake. Chock the rear wheels for added safety. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels, but do not remove them completely.
2. Lifting the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands placed under the frame rails. Ensure the jack stands are properly rated for the weight of the vehicle.
3. Removing the Front Wheels: Completely remove the lug nuts and detach the front wheels. Store them safely out of the way.
4. Disconnecting Suspension Components: This step varies depending on the suspension design. Typically, you will need to disconnect the following:
   • Sway Bar End Links: These connect the sway bar to the lower control arm. Use a wrench to loosen and remove the nuts securing the end links. Penetrating oil can be helpful if they are seized.
   • Brake Calipers: Carefully disconnect the brake calipers and secure them out of the way. Do not let them hang by the brake lines. Use a bungee cord or wire to support them.
   • ABS Sensors: Disconnect the ABS sensor wires from their mounting points on the suspension components.
   • Tie Rod Ends: Use a ball joint separator to disconnect the tie rod ends from the steering knuckles.
   • Upper Ball Joint: Similar to the tie rod ends, use a ball joint separator to disconnect the upper ball joint from the steering knuckle.
5. Removing the Strut Assembly (or Torsion Bar Key):
   • Strut Assembly: If your vehicle has struts, carefully remove the bolts securing the strut assembly to the lower control arm and the upper strut mount. Use a spring compressor if necessary to safely compress the coil spring before removing the strut. This step is critical and requires extreme caution. Improper use of a spring compressor can result in serious injury.
   • Torsion Bar Key: For vehicles with torsion bar suspension, locate the torsion bar adjusting bolts and loosen them significantly. Then, using a specialized tool (torsion bar unloading tool), carefully unload the torsion bars. Remove the factory torsion bar keys.
6. Installing the Leveling Kit:
   • Coil Spring Spacers: Install the coil spring spacers on top of the coil springs or inside the spring perches, depending on the kit design. Reinstall the strut assembly.
   • Strut Extensions: Bolt the strut extensions onto the top of the strut assembly. Reinstall the strut assembly.
   • Complete Strut/Spring Assemblies: Install the new strut/spring assemblies in place of the factory units.
   • Torsion Bar Keys: Install the new torsion bar keys in place of the factory keys. Reload the torsion bars using the adjusting bolts.
7. Reconnecting Suspension Components: Reconnect all the suspension components in the reverse order of removal:
   • Upper Ball Joint
   • Tie Rod Ends
   • ABS Sensors
   • Brake Calipers
   • Sway Bar End Links

   Important: Torque all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. Using a torque wrench is essential to ensure proper clamping force and prevent component failure.

8. Reinstalling the Wheels: Reinstall the front wheels and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
9. Lowering the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground and remove the jack stands.
10. Torquing the Lug Nuts: Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench.
11. Alignment: This is perhaps the most crucial step. After installing a leveling kit, it is essential to have the vehicle's alignment checked and adjusted by a qualified professional. Leveling kits alter the suspension geometry, which can lead to premature tire wear and handling problems if the alignment is not corrected.

Post-Installation Considerations

After installing a leveling kit, pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations. Double-check all connections and torque specifications after the first 50-100 miles. Consider upgrading your shocks to longer units designed for lifted applications to improve ride quality and handling. Also, be aware that larger tires may rub against the fender liners or other components, requiring trimming or modifications.

Furthermore, keep in mind that while a leveling kit can enhance the appearance of your truck, it may also affect its handling and load-carrying capacity. Understand the limitations of your vehicle and drive accordingly.

Conclusion: A Rewarding, Yet Demanding Endeavor

Installing a leveling kit can be a rewarding project for the mechanically inclined. However, it requires a thorough understanding of suspension systems, careful attention to detail, and a commitment to safety. By following these guidelines and consulting the specific instructions provided with your kit, you can achieve the leveled stance you desire while maintaining the integrity and performance of your truck. Remember, when in doubt, consult a qualified professional. Improper installation can have serious consequences.