How To Lift A Truck – A Step-by-Step Guide

Do you ever find yourself wondering, “How do I lift my truck?” Even though it’s a labor-intensive technique that calls for some technical expertise and understanding, it’s entirely achievable if you’re a seasoned DIY expert. The procedure for installing a lift kit is the same whether you drive a new Chevy or another truck such a Ford, Jeep, Chevy, GMC, RAM, Nissan, or Toyota.

Having said that, you should be aware of the significant distinctions among the many types of lift kits, such as suspension lift kits, body lift kits, and leveling kits. Now that we’ve covered everything above, let’s explore the process of lifting a truck.

Why Lift Your Truck?

It makes sense for some drivers to look for a lift kit substitute. A tall profile looks terrific and improves ride quality on any truck.

Additionally, an elevated vehicle allows you to drive across difficult terrain without worrying about traction. The same advantages are present for twin axle and heavy-duty trucks.

Trucks already have a tall rear suspension to support towing and big loads. The tail end would sag if the rear suspension wasn’t high.

It might even drag on the pavement when under really heavy load. Even though sparks shooting out of the back of your truck might appear cool, it’s not appropriate here.

Your truck can have one or both ends raised with a lift kit. Once installed, you can choose whether your truck rides flat or angled. However, there are lift kit substitutes that can produce the same results.

What Tools Do I Need to Lift a Truck?

Looking to install a lift kit on your pickup? Here is what you’ll need:

• Vehicle jacks and jack stands
• Socket wrench
• Lug wrench
• Screwdriver
• Torque wrench

In addition to the above tools, it’s best to keep a hammer and a pry bar with you as you install your lift kit in case you need a little extra elbow grease to remove old parts. To that end, keeping some type of penetrating oil around like WD-40 is also a good idea. Extra nuts and bolts are also good items to have on hand. Remember, this is just the bare minimum. If you have access to a full-service shop, that’s your best bet for lifting a truck. Looking to purchase the above or any other parts for your lift kit project? Order what you need from us online and you’ll save yourself time!

How Do I Lift My Truck? 

You should always refer to the instruction booklet that came with your lift kit when you bought it when lifting your truck! To help you decide between DIY and professional installation for your kit, the steps listed below are provided to help you better understand the procedure for lifting a truck.

Make sure the raise kit you choose complies with the requirements for your car, first and foremost. Then, carry out the subsequent actions to install your lift kit:

• Negative battery cable removed.
• When you lift your truck off the ground, loosen the lug nuts to make it easier to remove the tires.
• To elevate the car, use a jack and some jack stands. You should ensure that the vehicle’s center of gravity is where it ought to be because the process will take some time. The most important thing at this point is to make sure you’re safe.
• Wheels and tires should be taken off and stored.
• Along with your vehicle’s modern shocks and springs, remove the old U-bolts.
• Install the new U-bolts to the vehicle and then attach the new shocks and suspension while building any required components in accordance with the kit’s instructions.
• Utilize a torque wrench and tighten all components and bolts to the recommended torque levels.
• Attach whatever new tires you’ve bought for your car, including your old ones.
• Carefully lower your car back to the ground, bringing it as close to the ground as you can while maintaining it level.

Some lift packages demand the installation of a new transfer case, a longer driveshaft, or other extra components. To ensure you install all required parts, be sure to refer to your instruction manual.

You ought to have been able to install your lift kit successfully after following the procedures above. Congratulations! To ensure that it’s fitted correctly, it’s still a good idea to have a second pair of eyes look it over. The next time someone needs help lifting their truck, they might come to you for advice!

Keep in Mind

When lifting your truck, be careful to be safe.

Never cut corners or skip necessary maintenance when it comes to your safety. Never use front lift blocks when lifting your truck, for instance. Whether you want to drive on or off-road, they are risky and a poor decision.

When you drive with front lift blocks, your front axle is subjected to a significant horizontal load. The blocks may eject from your suspension if there is a severe horizontal load. If this occurs, you will be unable to control the steering while attempting to stop the car.

Expert technicians should keep safety in mind as well. Make sure you are knowledgeable before jury rigging your lift if you are an experienced mechanic. Otherwise, you’re putting your life in danger for a very dim prospect of reward.