Bilstein 5100 Leveling Question

[birdog]

I'm trying to decide my options with the Bilstein 5100 Ride Height Adjustable kit on my 2012 Z71 CC.

 

1 - Set the fronts at stock height and add a 2" lift spacer to bottom of strut for 2" total level (softer ride).

2 - Set the front at max 1.77" and add a 1/2" lift spacer to bottom for 2.25" total level or,

3 - Set fronts somewhere in between and add spacer to get a 2"-2.25" total level.

 

My reasoning is to limit the amount of spring preload to maintain a softer ride. My question is does adding spacers also preload the spring as if I would set the Bilsteins at the top notch which is max preload?

 

I get that using the top notch compresses the spring more which "lifts" the front end higher, that I can wrap my brain around. What I can't wrap my brain around is the spacer and is it basically doing the same thing by preloading the spring?

 

Am I over thinking this and should I just set the Bilsteins at the max height and be done with it? Will it be that overly stiff of a ride?

[Mojavered]

What did you end up doing?