Suspension lift

Truck with a suspension lift

A suspension lift is a modification, often done by Jeep, truck, SUV and offroad enthusiasts to raise the ride height of their vehicle. Suspension lifts (also referred to as lift kits or leveling kits) enable steeper ascent, descent and breakover angles, higher ground clearance, and helps accommodate larger wheels and tires.

Each manufactured vehicle usually requires a specific lift kit, and the types of kits vary based on the type of drivetrain that the vehicle has. Kits can be as simple as lift blocks and coil spring/strut spacers and extended shocks; to replacement control arms, trailing arms, and custom four-link systems. Suspension lifts also impact other factors, such as drive shaft length, steering geometry and brake lines. Legality is often an issue when installing suspension lifts, as many jurisdictions have varying laws on vehicle ride height and placement of lights and bumpers.

Leaf Spring Lift

Jeep Cherokee w/ 2 in. Suspension lift on 31 in. BFG A/T's; Lift accomplished with add-a-leaf and coil spring spacers.

Many trucks are supported by leaf spring suspensions. Leaf springs offer exceptional articulation, a large payload and can take a substantial amount of abuse. With the correct methods they can be modified to help your vehicle carry more weight, have better articulation and fit large oversized tires. Some vehicles may be equipped with front and rear leaf springs or just rear springs.

Methods of lifting are good for the rear, but not for the front; such as lifting blocks. Lifting the rear with blocks is a common way to achieve the desired height. This is done by installing a block, of the desired height of lift, in between the leaf spring and leaf spring perch and installing longer u-bolts. It is a bad method for the front because it can have tragic results. When braking, your front wheels create the majority of the braking force. The block moves this lateral force, caused by braking, higher above the axle than it did in the stock form. This can cause the block to become displaced from its location and result in total loss of control. For further explanation see this link;[1].

A more accepted way to build up the leaf springs is by using an add-a-leaf. This is done by inserting an extra leaf into the vehicle's leaf pack. Using the add-a-leaf will increase the height, but sometimes makes the suspension ride rough because of the added force it causes. A complete process description on how this is done is shown at this link; [2]. If you have the proper funds, the best way to lift with leaf springs is to buy a new set with the lift built in. When using an add-a-leaf you are relying on the integrity of the old springs. They may be a bit worn out, so when the lift is installed, the proposed 2 inch leafs may only have lifted the truck 1.5 inches. The new leaf spring pack will not be fatigued and will give the "true" lift desired. These packs can be bought at various increments of lift and can be combined with lifting shackles to give the proper set-up.

Tire Fitment Guide

One of the main reasons to lift a vehicle is to fit larger tires. This is a helpful link, which will give a basic idea on how high a vehicle must be lifted to fit a certain size diameter tire;[3] If the above chart does not help, here is another;[4]

Suspension Lift Sites

Here are a few of the major brands that offer suspension lifts. They will give lift kits and systems for the exact make and model vehicle. Some kits offer more than others and the cost will vary respectively.

Pro Comp [5]

Skyjacker [6]

Rubicon Express [7]

Rough Country [8]

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