Lifting GMC Sierra Denali '16

jmele11968 · November 23, 2016

I've been wanting to replace the wheel/tires on my GMC Sierra Denali and I've looked at everything from the RoughCountry 2.5" Level to the 4"/6" Fabtech among others. I haven't had a fun time trying to find kits that fit a '16 sierra denali aside from RC/Fabtech/BDS and SST(I think).

My question out of anyone here with a lifted sierra denali is how much has the ride changed? I've driven other trucks but nothing that's been lifted/leveled which is why I'm curious to know if I'm going to destroy my ride/handling quality doing a 4" or 6" lift.

groutguy · November 24, 2016

I have a '15 Denali lifted with the 7" full throttle suspension lift.

It rides a little stiffer than stock, but it does ride exceptionally well.

I have had numerous lifted trucks, and this one rides better than all of the previous trucks that I've had.

The tires that you choose will have a lot to do with the ride quality, so make sure that you pick one that suits a comfortable ride. Right now I'm running Cooper st maxx 35 12.5 20's, which are lt load rated at 3195lbs. A "C" rated tire would ride a little softer. I am also running airbags in the back with 39.5 lbs of pressure, and the weight of my toolbox, tools, and headache rack are approximately 400 lbs. so an empty truck would also ride softer.

The full throttle lift still utilizes the magnetic ride shocks, and reposition the shock sensors so there are no issues with the factory shock settings. With this set-up I am still averaging 16 mpg with 18 mpg on perfect driving conditions. The aerodynamics with a lift, seems to be the biggest hit on fuel economy; as I get the best readings at 85 to 95 km/hr (51 to 57 mph).

jmele11968 · November 24, 2016

I have a '15 Denali lifted with the 7" full throttle suspension lift.

It rides a little stiffer than stock, but it does ride exceptionally well.

I have had numerous lifted trucks, and this one rides better than all of the previous trucks that I've had.

The tires that you choose will have a lot to do with the ride quality, so make sure that you pick one that suits a comfortable ride. Right now I'm running Cooper st maxx 35 12.5 20's, which are lt load rated at 3195lbs. A "C" rated tire would ride a little softer. I am also running airbags in the back with 39.5 lbs of pressure, and the weight of my toolbox, tools, and headache rack are approximately 400 lbs. so an empty truck would also ride softer.

The full throttle lift still utilizes the magnetic ride shocks, and reposition the shock sensors so there are no issues with the factory shock settings. With this set-up I am still averaging 16 mpg with 18 mpg on perfect driving conditions. The aerodynamics with a lift, seems to be the biggest hit on fuel economy; as I get the best readings at 85 to 95 km/hr (51 to 57 mph).

Awesome info, I am having a hard time finding true reviews of lifts for this truck and this makes me feel a little better. I am really leaning towards doing a 6" and 35"s provided I can make everything work out. I have to 100% decide on a lift, and I think I'm going to see if I can find one of these in my area to test drive to really see what a lifted truck is like.

POWERQUEST290 · December 3, 2016

Groutguy what air bags are you running with the magnetic ride? Looked online and standard air bags hit the control arm of the magnetic ride, so I got a set of timbrens and they still rub the arm even though they told me they wouldn't!

groutguy · December 3, 2016

Groutguy what air bags are you running with the magnetic ride? Looked online and standard air bags hit the control arm of the magnetic ride, so I got a set of timbrens and they still rub the arm even though they told me they wouldn't!

I'm using the Airlift Company Ride Control kit. It's rated for 2000 lbs. Of load assist.

Because these bags are mounted inline over the leaf springs, it is not affected by the lift and it also doesn't interfere with the magnetic ride sensors.

I'll take a pick for you, when I have a chance.