Summary
- Installing a leveling kit involves disassembling the front suspension and brake components to remove the strut so that you can add spacers. Then the strut is reinstalled.
- Leveling kits even out a truck’s ride height through spacers that raise the front to match the rear. This addresses the factory “rake” for aesthetic purposes.
- You’ll need tools like socket wrenches, jack stands, a floor jack, and a torque wrench. You’ll also need to be slow and careful, especially when handling heavy components and torquing bolts to ensure safety and proper suspension function.
Leveling kits are suspension components meant to even out your truck’s ride height. Most trucks have a front suspension lower than their rear, which results in the vehicle tilting downward out of the factory. This downward tilt is called rake and this is a truck feature that manufacturers deliberately incorporate into a truck. First, it’s because the vehicle will level out when cargo is added to the rear. The downward tilt also makes the truck slightly more aerodynamic and fuel-efficient. However, some GMC Sierra 1500 owners are bothered by their vehicle’s look. If you are, it’s time to consider a GMC Sierra 1500 with a leveling kit.
A 2-inch leveling kit in a GMC Sierra 1500 is a common choice, but you can also go for a 3-inch leveling kit for your GMC Sierra 1500.
Luckily, you can easily buy leveling kits, but installing them is a different story.
Tips on Installing a Leveling Kit for the GMC Sierra 1500
Installing a leveling kit involves disassembling your truck’s front suspension components and brakes so that you can remove the strut. This means unscrewing several nuts and bolts. Take note that you’re not supposed to remove the the nut located in the middle of the strut’s top part, as the spring can fly out and you can get hurt. You need a strut spring compressor before removing this nut.
Once the strut is removed, you can insert the leveling kit spacers on the strut using bolts, then reinstall the strut.
Since the strut is longer, it’ll lift your vehicle’s ride height and make the front and rear even.
Have The Right Tools
You’ll need socket wrenches in various sizes like 10mm, 15mm, 17mm, 18mm, and 19mm to complete this task. You’ll also need jack stands that are rated for your vehicle’s weight, a floor jack, and a torque wrench. A rubber mallet might also be necessary to loosen components like ball joints.
Do Tasks Slowly
You’re going to be dealing with heavy suspension components. At some point, you’ll also need to lower the jack holding your vehicle’s control arm. Use jack stands to keep your vehicle properly raised. Slowly lower the arm so that you don’t upset your ride’s balance and drop it from the jack stands. Similarly, be careful when tightening bolts and nuts to ensure you’ve properly aligned the nuts on the threads.
Torque Bolts With the Appropriate Tightness
Your vehicle’s suspension absorbs bumps and carries your ride’s weight. You must properly torque bolts and nuts for your safety. Otherwise, components can get loose, and cause your vehicle to become unstable.
Where To Get Leveling Kits for Your GMC Sierra 1500
A leveling kit is just one of many upgrades that you can get for your truck. Wondering which website has the best kit to level up your ride?
The search ends here. The JC Whitney Performance Hub is your go-to shop for all the various performance parts and accessories. This hub carries the best brands that can unlock your truck’s off-road capabilities, performance, and looks. Visit the JC Whitney Performance Hub to find the leveling kit that will unleash your ride’s potential.
Are you a budding or experienced DIY enthusiast? You’ll also need tools for the job. Get high-quality, precision-made JC Whitney tools. They’re made to meet the needs of professional mechanics. You can be confident that these tools are built to last and will satisfy your garage needs.
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