Blocks or adda a leaf?

tdub88 · January 1, 2004

Hi, I'm relatively new here and very happy to have found this site with such a wealth of knowledgeable people. I am looking to get a couple more inches of lift on my '00 GMC Sierra x-cab, 4x4. I have the Ford keys ordered for the front and I am trying to decide what to do on the back.

I am thinking about replacing th 2" blocks with 4" or adding a leaf. I would like to get 2". Are there any safety concerns with a 4" block? It looks the stock blocks are 2". Or, is adding a leaf a better option? I may be pulling a camper in the future, but just haul motorcyles in the bed now.

Also I have had little luck finding block kits and add-a-aleafs advertised specifically for a '00 GMC 4x4. Anybody have a place they have got them?

Thanks in advance.

Todd

Chris97K1500 · January 2, 2004

I've got both a 2" block and an adjustable add a leaf. The ride with a taller block will be harsher, plus you may get some axle wrapping due to the taller block. IMO, I'd go with a full length add a leaf. I decided to go with an adjustable add a leaf from Hellwig, it was a very simple installation, took maybe 20 minutes per side max. With it being adjustable, you can raise or lower it depending on what you like or what you are towing. A standard add a leaf will only sag over time, with no way to raise it back up. I didn't raise the back as high as it would go and I got 2" of lift. Here are some application specific aal's for your truck, this is the same site I got my Hellwig AAL from. http://pickuptruck.performancecenter.com/p...o%2FSierra+1500

Chris

Worktruck · January 2, 2004

The pic in my sig is of my 02 with F**D keys up front and a Helwig adjustable add a leaf in the rear. I got 3 1/2" of lift up front and 2" at the rear. Truck rides great. I have a freind with an 02 F150 XLT who wants to trade trucks cause he likes the ride of mine so much better. Good Luck.

Nick2000Gmc · January 2, 2004

How is your cv joints holding out and does anyone know of any concerns when doing such a lift. i have the same truck described and would like a lift too. looking for a kit to do the whole job. Anyone hear of a company named rough country or any reccomendations on a good company

tdub88 · January 2, 2004

Another newbie question. If I go with the blocks and want to add 2", should I get a 4" block and replace the stock blocks or get a 2"block and add it to the existing?

Thanks,

Todd

Worktruck · January 3, 2004

Approx 20K miles since I installed the keys. No trouble at all with the front end (knocking on wood). I plow with the truck too so I do use the 4wd often.

MountaineerTom · January 3, 2004

Your safest route would be to swap out the 2 inch for a solid 4 inch block. Stack blocks have the potential to get squeezed out a lot easier than a solid unit.

Mule · January 4, 2004

I had 4 inch blocks and wanted more lift, so I bought Skyjacker 6 inch leaf springs (the whole spring pack). Great move, soft ride, lots of lift. I like blocks, but 4 inches is about the limit due to axle wrap, ride, etc.