Summary
- Lift kits, also known as suspension lift kits, are sets of components that can raise your vehicle’s ride height.
- When buying lift kits for their vehicle, drivers need to keep their lifestyles in mind, buying kits that improve on-road or off-road performance depending on what they want to use their vehicle for.
- Highly recommended brands for Ram 1500 lift kits include ReadyLift, Skyjacker, and Rancho.
Lift kits, also known as suspension lift kits, are sets of components that can raise your vehicle’s ride height. They’re a good investment for drivers keen on installing bigger wheels or driving off-road.
More ride height means more shock absorption, making for smoother and more manageable rides on rough, rocky terrain. This makes lift kits excellent aftermarket upgrades for the Ram 1500.
But what exactly are the best lift kits on the market? What makes them so good and how exactly does one go about installing a lift kit on their vehicle?
What Makes A Good Lift Kit?
How exactly does one choose the right suspension lift kit for their vehicle?
Lift kits aren’t one-size-fits-all. The right kit would fit the lifestyle you want to live, which means you’ll need to consider what you plan to do with your vehicle.
For example, certain lift kits are designed to improve off-road performance at the cost of reduced on-road performance. Meanwhile, some lift kits are designed to provide a balance of the two.
You’ll also need to consider factors such as towing, carrying capacity, and tire size before choosing a lift kit. Most importantly, the lift kit must be compatible with your vehicle.
Best Brands for Ram 1500 Lift Kits
Because you’ll need to keep your lifestyle in mind when buying suspension lift kits, prioritize brands that make kits relevant to you.
Different brands have different specialties. Generally speaking, brands like ReadyLift, Skyjacker, and Rancho are known for being exceptionally reliable and accessible.
ReadyLift
If you’re looking for a solid suspension lift kit to keep your vehicle level and steady, ReadyLift will get the job done.
ReadyLift lift kits are known for being high-quality and durable. They’re built to deliver smooth rides and better towing performance – all while providing adequate room for newer, larger tires.
The best part? ReadyLift suspense lift kits are built to last. You can expect to get at least 100,000 miles on upgraded suspension components, provided your vehicle receives regular maintenance.
Skyjacker
Another one of the best lift kit manufacturers is Skyjacker – a brand with a reputation for designing parts that bring out the best in any vehicle, the Ram 1500 included.
Expertly crafted and designed to be as accessible to drivers all over the country, lift kits made by Skyjacker deliver high-quality performance at affordable and accessible prices.
Enjoy good ride quality and quality shocks, keeping you and your vehicle safe and comfortable both on the road and away from it.
Rancho
If you’re looking to upgrade your vehicle’s suspension system to improve its towing capabilities, Rancho suspension lift kits are an excellent choice.
Much like ReadyLift and Skyjacker, Rancho lift kits are durable and make for smooth rides. However, what distinguishes them from others is how customizable they are.
Rancho kits are known to have adjustable shocks and suspension. This makes them ideal for drivers who go on and off the road and need to adjust and modify their vehicles for urban and wilderness driving.
Installing a Lift Kit on Your Ram 1500
Though it’s best to have a professional both recommend and install aftermarket components in your vehicle, you can also do everything yourself. If you’re keen on learning how to raise your vehicle’s suspension on your own, here’s how the process typically goes. If you plan on doing it yourself, it’s strongly recommended to have a helper with you because suspension work can be dangerous – especially with the springs.
What You’ll Need
You’ll need the following items before attempting to install a suspension lift kit.
- Safety equipment
- Pry bars
- Socket and wrench set
- Car jacks and safety stands
- Torque and lug wrench
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- Spare nuts and bolts
- Safety wire
What to Do
Once you have all your tools ready, follow these steps to install the suspension lift kit.
- Park your vehicle on a flat and even surface, preferably in a secure area like your garage.
- Unclamp the negative battery terminal to prevent random electric shocks.
- Loosen the lug nuts but don’t remove them.
- With your car jacks, raise the front or rear of the vehicle to a height comfortable enough for you to access the undercarriage. Ensure the vehicle is level and that both jacks are secure.
- Place safety stands for additional support, putting less strain on the floor jacks.
- Remove your vehicle’s wheels first, then remove the shocks, U-bolts, and springs.
- If your lift kit requires spring assembly, follow the instructions specified on the kit and install the springs.
- Install your replacement U-bolts by attaching them where the old bolts used to be. Ensure they’re vertical and aligned.
- Follow the instructions specified on your lift kit to install your new shocks.
- Secure all the nuts and bolts attaching your new components. Use a torque wrench to ensure all fasteners are tightened as specified.
- Remove the safety stands and lower the vehicle with the car jacks, keeping it level to avoid putting more strain on one side than the other.
- Reclamp the negative battery terminal.
Where to Get the Best Lift Kits to Upgrade Your Ram 1500
Familiarizing yourself with some of the best lift kits on the market is one thing, but knowing where to get your hands on them is another thing entirely.
The great news is that the JC Whitney Hub — your one-stop shop for all things performance parts and accessories — is here. On the hub, you’ll find all the top brands you know and love in one place. Visit the JC Whitney Performance Hub now to find all the best names in performance and restoration.
You’ll also need reliable tools for your project. JC Whitney’s premium tools are designed for your garage. From socket sets to specialty tools, JC Whitney has everything you need to upgrade, repair, and fine-tune your ride. Get JC Whitney tools today.
About JC Whitney Editorial Team
