What Is a Leveling Kit and Why Install One?
From the factory, most trucks sit lower in the front than the rear. This "rake" is intentional — it compensates for the weight of a payload in the bed — but it also limits front tire clearance and gives the truck an uneven stance that many owners want to correct.
A leveling kit raises the front of the truck to match the rear, typically by 1.5" to 3". The result: a more aggressive, level stance, room for larger tires up front, and improved ground clearance — all without the cost of a full lift kit.
Types of Leveling Kits
- Strut spacers — The most common type. A billet aluminum or polyurethane spacer sits on top of the factory strut, adding height without replacing any components. Easy to install and very affordable.
- Coil spring spacers — Used on trucks with coil spring front suspensions. Sits between the coil spring and the frame or lower control arm.
- Torsion bar keys — For trucks with torsion bar front suspensions (older GM trucks, some Fords). Replaces the factory torsion bar key to increase preload and raise ride height.
What You'll Need
- Leveling kit (matched to your year, make, and model — see fitment below)
- Floor jack and jack stands
- Spring compressor (for coil spring applications)
- Torque wrench
- Basic socket and wrench set
- Penetrating oil
- Alignment appointment (required after any suspension change)
Step-by-Step: Strut Spacer Leveling Kit Installation
This is the most common leveling kit type for modern trucks (GM, Ford, Ram). The process is straightforward but does require removing the strut assembly.
Step 1: Loosen the Lug Nuts and Lift the Vehicle
Break the lug nuts loose before lifting. Jack up the front of the truck and secure it on jack stands. Remove the front wheels.
Step 2: Disconnect the Sway Bar End Link
Disconnect the sway bar end link from the lower control arm or strut. This gives you the slack needed to drop the lower control arm.
Step 3: Disconnect the ABS Sensor Wire and Brake Line Bracket
Unclip the ABS wire and any brake line brackets from the strut. You don't need to disconnect the brake line itself — just free it from the strut so it can move.
Step 4: Remove the Lower Strut Bolts
Remove the two bolts securing the bottom of the strut to the steering knuckle. Support the knuckle so it doesn't drop suddenly.
Step 5: Remove the Upper Strut Mount Nuts
Open the hood and locate the three nuts on top of the strut tower. Remove them and carefully lower the strut assembly out of the vehicle.
Step 6: Install the Spacer
Place the leveling spacer on top of the strut. Most spacers are a direct bolt-on — the factory upper mount hardware passes through the spacer. Some kits include new hardware; use it if provided.
Step 7: Reinstall the Strut Assembly
Guide the strut back into the strut tower. Start the upper mount nuts by hand, then reinstall the lower strut bolts. Torque everything to spec — refer to your vehicle's service manual or the kit's instructions for exact values.
Step 8: Reconnect Everything
Reconnect the sway bar end link, ABS sensor wire, and brake line bracket. Reinstall the wheel and torque the lug nuts.
Step 9: Get an Alignment
This step is not optional. Any time you change the front suspension geometry, you must get a wheel alignment. Skipping this will cause uneven and accelerated tire wear. Budget for this when planning your install.
What to Expect After Installation
- Improved stance — The front of the truck will sit level with or slightly higher than the rear
- More tire clearance — Most trucks can fit 33" tires with a 2" level; some can go larger depending on the platform
- Slightly firmer ride — Strut spacers can stiffen the ride modestly; upgraded struts can restore or improve ride quality
- CV axle angle change — On some platforms, leveling can increase CV axle angle. Inspect your CV axles periodically after leveling
Fitment: Find the Right Leveling Kit for Your Truck
Leveling kits are vehicle-specific. Using the wrong kit can result in improper fitment, poor ride quality, or component damage. Browse by platform to find the correct kit for your build:
- GM Trucks (Silverado 1500, Sierra 1500, Silverado HD, Sierra HD)
- Ford Trucks (F-150, F-250, F-350, Bronco)
- Ram Trucks (1500, 2500, 3500)
- Jeep (Wrangler, Gladiator)
Pro Tips
- Pair with new struts — If your factory struts have high miles, this is the perfect time to replace them. You're already doing the labor.
- Check your warranty — Some factory powertrain warranties may be affected by suspension modifications. Know your coverage before you wrench.
- Don't skip the alignment — We can't say this enough. An alignment protects your tire investment and keeps your truck tracking straight.
- Torque to spec — Suspension hardware must be torqued correctly. Under-torqued fasteners can back out; over-torqued ones can strip or crack.
Not sure which leveling kit is right for your truck? The Axiom Supply team is here to help. Reach out and we'll make sure you get the right fit for your build.
