Levelling Kit Questions

[revitupfaster]

I'm pretty much decided on going with the 2.25" Ready lift levelling kit for my 2014 Silverado. My truck is an LT DBL Cab Z71 with the 5.3, with Factory 20" wheels. I know, the RL kit is pretty pricey compared to others out there, but my dealer sells and will install this kit, so it gives a little peace of mind, if they reccommend it. Probably going to cost me about $50 bucks more than having it installed elsewhere, but I consider it "money well spent".

 

My truck measures 39.5" at the rear from ground to just under the fender well, and 36.25" at the front, again from ground to just under the fender well. I didn't think there would be that much difference, but when the truck is parked on a level surface, it is quite a noticeable rake in the stance. I have no intention of eventually changing to larger tires, I just don't like the current "look".

 

I've read through the "Levelling Kit" thread a few times, and as a result decided on the Ready Lift Kit. I do have a few questions, as I have never "levelled" a truck before, so I'm not sure what to expect once the job is done. So anyone that has a similar truck, and particularly anyone that has used the Ready Lift 2.25" kit, I would appreciate your honest opinions and thoughts on the following questions.

 

1. Is there any noticeable difference in the ride? Ready Lift claims not, but I'd like to hear from a real user.

 

2. Do you notice any difference in handling?

 

3. Do you notice any difference in the driving position? Do you feel like you're sitting higher? If so do you get used to it quickley?

 

4. With this kit and my trucks current stance, should I net out with about a 1" rake? In other words, does this kit truly raise the front by 2.25", without affecting the rear at all?

 

5. Will a level kit cause any "down the road" issues? There seems to be people out there that think any kind of fooling around with the suspension, that changes factory specs, and angle geometry will eventually result in issues. Are there any real suspension "experts" out there that can comment?

 

6. Anything else you think I should know.

 

I will really appreciate your thoughts, I have no idea what to expect.

 

Here's a pic of the truck, easy to see, she needs a levelling.

[surebuttercringe]

I'm going to be nice and go ahead and answer your questions because I'm bored and have the time, but in the future, you may want to search because all of your questions have been answered before as I imagine you are aware you are not the first one to have questions when leveling a vehicle.

 

1. The ride is slightly stiffer and really only noticeable when hitting bumps in the road or going on a bumpy road. Regular highway driving yields little to no difference in ride quality.

 

2. No difference in handling.

 

3. Yes, you notice that it takes a little more effort to get in the truck because the door sills sit a little higher now. As far as driving position, you'll notice the hood is more prominently out there, but it's not like you turned it into a monster truck with a 20" lift, so it's only noticeable to the extent that you notice it. People who have never rode in your truck before probably won't even notice.

 

4. Yes, this will end up around 1" of rake. The rear height will remain the same. I personally went with a 2.5" kit for my truck to get it closer to level.

 

5. I'm no real suspension "expert" but I also doubt there are many on this site that are. What I can tell you is that yes, there may be some down the road issues with tie rods and CV joints/boots and ball joints due to the increased geometry in the suspension. This also depends on how hard you drive the truck off-road or if it never sees off-road action.

 

6. Here's something you should know and be aware of - once you do this, you'll probably not want to stop there. First, it's a level, then it's a body lift to get "just a little more" and the next thing you know, it's a 7" lift and 35's. Just beware, LOL.

[revitupfaster]

I'm going to be nice and go ahead and answer your questions because I'm bored and have the time, but in the future, you may want to search because all of your questions have been answered before as I imagine you are aware you are not the first one to have questions when leveling a vehicle.

 

 

Thank you for taking the time. I have searched and read the threads on levelling kits, (Probably at least twice) and realize that most if not all of my questions have been addressed throughout the various posts, I just hoped that someone that has actual experience (Like yourself) with a similar setup I am planning would reply to my specific questions.

 

I know if I have had first hand experience, and can help someone, I don't mind taking the time to answer their questions.........even if there is a lengthy thread that has pretty much discussed the issue to death.

 

Again, I very much appreciate your response, it was exactly what I was looking for, clear and well said, and I'm sorry it was that much trouble for you.

[Isriam]

i actually feel a lot more plush ride on the front with mine leveled. seems like it added some travel and rides even better than stock. also notice less road noise. before i never used my side steps but now i use them everytime i get into the truck.

[Sermed]

I think its too late for me as well, i ordered RC 2.5 Leveling lift kit, can share my experience once i share, i do a lot of off roaring in the desert so i will let you know my ride experience off road as well

[PMattras]

New products for lifted trucks.

 

The Pitman and Idler Support kit fits everything from 1993 to basically 2014, but it isn’t just for lifted trucks. Sure the larger wheel and tires accelerate the wear problem; all GM’s have this issue. So, whether your truck is for work, racing or street driving, this simple kit will fix a huge known problem

 

http://www.offroadxtreme.com/features/sema-coverage/sema-2014-cognito-motorsports-fixes-a-huge-problem-with-gm-trucks/

[blackout07]

New products for lifted trucks.

 

The Pitman and Idler Support kit fits everything from 1993 to basically 2014, but it isn’t just for lifted trucks. Sure the larger wheel and tires accelerate the wear problem; all GM’s have this issue. So, whether your truck is for work, racing or street driving, this simple kit will fix a huge known problem

 

http://www.offroadxtreme.com/features/sema-coverage/sema-2014-cognito-motorsports-fixes-a-huge-problem-with-gm-trucks/

 

 

Nice kit. Too bad Cognito doesn't list one for 1500's past '06.

 

 

Op, if you stick around the forums for any length of time, you will grow tired of answering the same questions over and over and over again. It's very rare that a question comes up that hasn't been answered here.

[thewhitestallion]

New products for lifted trucks.

 

The Pitman and Idler Support kit fits everything from 1993 to basically 2014, but it isn’t just for lifted trucks. Sure the larger wheel and tires accelerate the wear problem; all GM’s have this issue. So, whether your truck is for work, racing or street driving, this simple kit will fix a huge known problem

 

http://www.offroadxtreme.com/features/sema-coverage/sema-2014-cognito-motorsports-fixes-a-huge-problem-with-gm-trucks/

 

the k2 trucks do not have and idler / pitman set up. it has a rack and pinion, electric at that. That is for mainly for gmt 900 - 800's. With the k2 trucks when I am off road I still fear the death of my tie rods. those will eventually be replaced with heavy duty tie rods.

[PMattras]

Nice kit. Too bad Cognito doesn't list one for 1500's past '06.

 

 

Op, if you stick around the forums for any length of time, you will grow tired of answering the same questions over and over and over again. It's very rare that a question comes up that hasn't been answered here.

Good to know especially for the HD truck owners.

[revitupfaster]

I've installed the 2.25" Ready Lift kit..........if anyone is interested, I have posted pics on the following thread.

 

http://www.gm-trucks.com/forums/topic/166238-opinions-needed-lowering-rear-vs-front-leveling-kit-on-2014-silverado/

 

 

REV