Jeff Rago

It will change the ride. While I am not sure if it places it in a firmer or softer position, changing the length of the rod will change the damping characteristics of the shock. It stands to reason that the more the suspension compresses, the firmer the damping would become so as to make the shock progressively stiffer. Without it damping would remain in a linear state, unless valuing in the shock is designed to change based on travel on its own (which there wouldn’t be a need for the rod then.). That is how the Denali system is designed to work. If there is no increase in your arm length, you will be riding in a deeper portion of the damping, and despite “not feeling it” it should be stiffer. It may be subtle enough that the change is not detectable except under certain circumstances.

The difference between the Denali and Chevrolet suspension is the ARC component. 2019 Denali requires an extension of the rod which is approximately 3/4 of an inch for a front level kit. Rough country has them now and you can see them online. You will have to do the same to the rear (extension) should you want to lift it also. Other option is to replace the shocks. These are not electronic “magnaride” but fully mechanical and controlled by the rod based on suspension travel. You can measure the rod in stock state and then with the lift added. The difference is the additional length you will need to make a bracket for, to add to the rod length. I did this on mine and just ordered the Chevrolet leveling kit. The GMC was almost twice the price for the two, approximately 3/4 inch extensions, two lock nuts and two bolts.