How Do I Lift My Truck?

If you are looking to improve visibility, towing capacity, and conquer rocks and ledges, then a lift kit may be just right for you. This accessory gives you the ability to drive anywhere with ease and confidence. Lift kits are an expensive upgrade so many people are eager to do the upgrade independently. There are quite a few differences between suspension lift kits, body lift kits, and leveling kits. It’s important to understand the differences and in order to accomplish your lift. Explore our introductory guide by Sayer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to figure out if this is something you are ready to do:

What Tools Do I Need?

The first step you need to take is doing an inventory of your tools. Here are all the tools required for the installation of a lift kit:

• Vehicle jacks
• Jack stands
• Socket wrench
• Torque wrench
• Lug wrench
• Screwdriver

Any part time or full time mechanic should be sure to have a few extra supplies on their hands. A pry bar and a hammer are good backup in case you need a little boost to remove old parts. WD-40 or another penetrating oil is your best friend for loosening any tight joints, and it is always helpful to have extra nuts and bolts. This is the bare minimum for an adequate backup supply. Having access to a full shop is very helpful. 

If you need to order any extra parts or you are still looking for your lift kit, then contact our service department to order whatever it is you need. 

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

Absolutely no set of instructions online can serve as a substitute for the SPECIFIC instructions in the manual included with your lift kit when purchasing. We outline the steps below to give you an overview of the process. The aim is to help you decide between a DIY and professionally installed lift kit. 

You need to be sure you purchase a lift kit that fits your vehicle specifications. After, follow these steps to lift your vehicle at home:

1. Pop the hood and remove the negative battery cable. Make sure it’s in a safe spot. 
2. Loosen the lug nuts while your vehicle is on the ground. This makes it easier to remove them once your truck is off the ground. 
3. Using the jack and jack stands, raise your vehicle. This takes a while, and you’re going to want to be sure that the center of gravity is where it should be.
4. Remove each of the wheels and tires and put them aside. Remember to keep track of nuts and bolts. 
5. Then you will remove the old U-bolts, the current shocks, and springs from your vehicle. 
6. Next, you will attach the new bolts, new shocks and suspension. Here you will need to follow the instructions that came with your lift kit. 
7. Using the torque wrench, tighten all the bolts and pieces. Make sure to follow the specifications for each. Some need a looser fit than others. 
8. Attach your tires. Whether they are the old ones or new ones you have purchased.
9. Little by little you can lower your vehicle to the ground. You want to keep the vehicle as level as possible throughout this process. 

The scale of your modifications could mean additional installations such as a longer driveshaft, a new transfer case, and a few other components. If not, your lift kit will now be installed. Prior to your next drive around Pocatello you may want to schedule an inspection at Sayer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Our expert technicians can provide support in your project. It never hurts to have another expert glance over your work. 

So, How Long Does it Take to Lift a Truck?

Installing leveling kits is a much easier install than off-road-ready suspension lift kits. Although one is easier than the other, both are long processes, and it is important to make sure that you have time to complete the job before you need to get to your next stop in Rexburg.

Typically, trained technicians will take between seven and fifteen hours to install your new lift kit. Even as a veteran do-it-yourself mechanic you should expect to take at least twice that long to install your kit at home. If you have a lot of experience, especially with lift kits, you may be able to get this done in a weekend. If you have no or limited experience with suspension systems, you may not want to attempt the process at all. 

Should I Lift My Truck at Home or Go to a Mechanic?

Lifting a truck is no easy process. It is time-consuming, difficult, requires a foundational mechanics work set, and patience. Lift kits can be expensive, and it can be tempting to attempt evading the cost by doing it yourself. If you aren’t outfitted with the proper equipment it could actually end up costing you more to lift your vehicle yourself. 

We want to emphasize that it’s important to thoroughly follow your lift kit’s instruction manuals. This guide is only a general introduction for understanding what installing a lift kit is like. 

Get Your Truck Lifted with Sayer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Idaho Falls.

Hopefully this guide will help you make the decision whether or not to do your lift kit from home. You should know that most of the time the quick, easy, and less risky choice is to schedule an appointment at your local Sayer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Maybe we can do your lift faster and cheaper than expected!