Category: Leveling Kits

Lift Kit vs. Leveling Kit: What’s the Difference?

June 18, 2024

When it comes to modifying your truck or car, one of the key decisions you’ll face is whether to install a lift kit or a leveling kit. Both options can significantly change the appearance and performance of your vehicle, but they serve different purposes and come with varying costs. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed choice that suits your needs and budget.

What is a Lift Kit?

A lift kit raises the entire body of the vehicle higher off the ground. This modification is popular among off-road enthusiasts and those looking to accommodate larger tires. Lift kits come in two main types: body lift kits and suspension lift kits.

  • Body Lift Kits: These kits increase the height of the body from the frame without altering the suspension. They are generally more affordable and easier to install. However, they offer less ground clearance compared to suspension lifts.
  • Suspension Lift Kits: These kits elevate the vehicle by modifying the suspension components. They provide greater ground clearance and improve off-road capability. However, they are more complex to install and can be quite expensive.
  • Cost Estimate: A body lift kit can cost between $200 and $500 for the parts alone, with installation potentially adding $500 to $1,000. Suspension lift kits are more expensive, typically ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, with installation costs adding another $1,000 to $3,000.

What is a Leveling Kit?

A leveling kit is designed to level the height of the front of the vehicle with the back. Most trucks and some cars come from the factory with a slight rake, meaning the rear sits higher than the front. Leveling kits correct this imbalance, giving the vehicle a more even stance.

Leveling kits usually consist of spacers that fit on top of the front struts or coil springs, and they do not significantly alter the suspension or ground clearance. This makes them a simpler and more cost-effective option for those looking to achieve a balanced look without the need for extensive modifications.

Cost Estimate: Leveling kits are more affordable than lift kits, typically costing between $50 and $400 for the parts. Installation costs can vary but usually range from $300 to $800.

Can You Put a Leveling Kit on Top of a Suspension Lift?

One common question among truck and car enthusiasts is whether you can install a leveling kit on top of a suspension lift. The answer is generally yes, but with some important caveats. Adding a leveling kit to a vehicle that already has a suspension lift can help fine-tune the stance and ensure the front and rear heights match perfectly.

However, this combination should be approached with caution. Stacking kits can sometimes lead to issues with alignment, handling, and suspension geometry. It is crucial to ensure that the components are compatible, and that the vehicle’s suspension system can handle the additional modifications. Consulting with a professional mechanic or suspension specialist is highly recommended before attempting this combination.

Choosing between a lift kit and a leveling kit depends largely on your goals and budget. If you’re looking to improve off-road capability and fit larger tires, a lift kit might be the better option. On the other hand, if you simply want to level the stance of your vehicle without significant changes, a leveling kit is a cost-effective solution. Remember, when combining modifications such as adding a leveling kit to a suspension lift, always seek professional advice to ensure safety and compatibility.

By understanding the differences and costs associated with each option, you can make an informed decision that best suits your vehicle and driving needs.

Leveling Kits vs. Lift Kits: Which One Is Right for You?

November 18, 2022

Did you know that diesel fuel produces up to 15 percent more energy than gasoline?

There are countless diesel vehicles that have been raised using lift kits, and the majority of these vehicles are still being hauled on a daily basis. Therefore, the question is: Which leveling kit or lift kit is best for you to customize your vehicle with?

To find out what’s best for your customized rides, trust Outlaw and continue reading this post!

Lift Kit vs. Leveling Kit What’s The Difference?

Lifts and leveling kits raise the truck body off of the vehicle’s axles. This is so that wider tires can be installed and more ground clearance is available.

Hardware is included in a leveling kit to raise the front of the car just enough to match the stock height of the back. A leveling kit is typically made to lift the front of the vehicle up to a maximum of roughly 2 inches.

Leveling kits are also fairly straightforward, typically simply requiring torsion keys or spring spacers to complete the task.

Through upgraded suspension components, lift kits raise the truck substantially higher into the air. Lift kits can be bought in 2-, 4-, 6-, 8-, or even 10-inch packages or much taller if the buyer wants to go custom. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Customizing Your Vehicle With Lift Kits

Compared to leveling kits, lift kits are significantly more complete. Often, these kits will include springs, control arms, shocks, and any other components required to maintain the specified height. The higher lift kits are typically fairly complicated, frequently requiring the fabrication of new driveshafts and the bending of brake lines in addition to the suspension components.

Additionally, using larger-than-stock tires can necessitate the use of aftermarket wheels with higher offset.

Benefits of Lifting and Leveling Customized Rides

Using larger-than-stock tires on all four corners is one of the main benefits of lifting and leveling vehicles.

While most pickup trucks have ample space in the back and front, larger tires can occasionally contact the fender or bumper when turning. For this kind of problem, a modest height adjustment is all that is necessary.

Additionally, if a large object is put on the front of the truck, such as a winch or plow, the suspension may droop, resulting in a ride height that is even lower than stock. In this situation, a leveling kit can be applied to restore the front end to the appropriate height.

Leveling kits are affordable and simple to assemble.

Trust Outlaw When It Comes to Leveling Kits vs. Lift Kits

You probably level a lot if you frequently use your truck to tow. A lift kit is more your style if you want to have a high-flying display truck, aren’t frightened of mud or deep water, go hunting in the outback, or prefer off-roading.

Now that you’re aware of how to customize your vehicle with either a leveling kit or a lift kit, you can trust Outlaw to help you create the best customized rides! Click here to get in contact with us so that we can help you build your dream ride.