How to Lift a Truck

2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 Lifted

 

No matter what brand of truck you drive, like a used Silverado or a used Ford truck, we certainly understand why a Wichita driver would want to use the lift kit. This is a premium off-roading accessory that lets you hit the trails, the rocks, the sand, or whatever with confidence. However, because lift kits can cost a little coin, we’re always getting asked “How do I lift my truck at home?” Though there are important differences separating suspension lift kits, body lift kits, and leveling kits, you can find out if this task is right for you with a guide from Don Hattan Dealerships, your service team.

 

 

What Tools Do I Need to Lift a Truck?

First thing’s first, here are the tools you’ll need to install a lift kit:

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

It’s also a good idea to have a pry bar and hammer on hand, just in case some old parts are difficult to remove. You’ll also want to have WD-40 or the penetrating oil of your choice to loosen tight joints. Our parts team can help you get what you need if you’re missing something.

How Do I Lift My Truck at Home? A Step-by-Step Guide

No set of online instructions can act as a substitute for the instruction manual that was included with your lift kit when you purchased it! These steps are designed to give you a brief overview of the process. After you ensure you’ve purchased a lift kit that’s right for your truck’s specifications, take the following steps.

  1. Take off the negative battery cable.
  2. Loosen the lug nuts, so the tires are easier to remove when your truck is off the ground.
  3. Use your jack and jack stands to raise the vehicle. This will take a bit of time, so you’ll want to make sure that the vehicle’s center of gravity is right where it should be.
  4. Remove the wheels and tires and set them aside.
  5. Remove the old U-bolts, along with your vehicle’s current shocks and springs.
  6. Attach the new bolts and, while assembling any parts according to the instructions that came with your kit, attach the new shocks and suspension. 
  7. Use your torque wrench to make sure that all pieces and bolts are tightened according to the proper specifications.
  8. Attach your old tires, or attach a set of bigger tires that you’ve purchased for your vehicle.
  9. Lower your vehicle carefully, going little by little, and keeping it as level as possible as it inches towards the ground.

Depending on how extensively you’ve modified your vehicle, you might also need to install a longer driveshaft, a new transfer case, or certain other additional components. We also recommend you should get it inspected at your local service center to ensure that you’re ready for the trails.

Get Your Truck Lifted at Don Hattan Dealerships

We’ve taught you how to lift a truck at home. However, we want you to know that in most cases, it’ll be a less risky procedure to get it done by the pros. Our service team is ready and waiting to serve you. Schedule service online today to get the process started!

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