Stock Height Measurements are Odd ????

G-Z-M · February 22

Have a question. I am about to install a front leveling kit on my 2019 GMC Denali, 4x4. When I did my pre install measurements from concrete vertically up the centerline of the wheel to the bottom lip of the fender, this is what I am getting. Truck has never been hit or damaged in any way, checked records:

RF = 36"

LF = 36"

RR = 38-3/4"

LR = 38-1/4"

Why is there a 1/2" difference in height from side to side across the rear of the truck? I know over many years some vehicles sag due to drivers weight and the weight of fuel tank being on the drivers side but this seems a bit excessive for a 6 year old truck that is still like new. At the time I took these measurements, the fuel tank was exactly half full. What am I missing here?

1660.heic

CamGTP · February 22

New trucks off the lot are lower on the drivers side, so to me what you are seeing is completely normal. There can be 200-250lbs more on that leaf spring with a full tank when you factor in the tank, fuel, lines, EVAP parts. Over time that extra weight will show it face more but only slightly.

Every GM truck I've owned as been at least a half inch or more lower on the drivers side rear at all times.

G-Z-M · February 22

1 hour ago, CamGTP said:

New trucks off the lot are lower on the drivers side, so to me what you are seeing is completely normal. There can be 200-250lbs more on that leaf spring with a full tank when you factor in the tank, fuel, lines, EVAP parts. Over time that extra weight will show it face more but only slightly.

Every GM truck I've owned as been at least a half inch or more lower on the drivers side rear at all times.

So, where is the difference?

Is it in the arch of the spring?
is this an intentional design by GM?
Is this something I can alter such as having a machine make me a shim to go between the spring and differential on the drivers side?

Yes, I know, I am picky and this kind of stuff drives me nuts.

Thanks for your comments.

newdude · February 22

Normal. Especially for what is now a 7 year old truck that has 180k miles, a convenient detail you left out which I found in another post you made. 1/2 an inch side to side is nothing at 180,000 miles.

Fuel tank is on the driver side. 24 gallons time and time again in that tank.

I can measure one right now brand new, in the shop on level ground and it will be off side to side a smidge. They just are.

Also. I really hope you bought new upper control arms with your leveling kit because the stock arms do not last with a level.

Edited February 22 by newdude

asilverblazer · February 23

On 2/21/2026 at 8:37 PM, G-Z-M said:

So, where is the difference?

Is it in the arch of the spring?

is this an intentional design by GM?

Is this something I can alter such as having a machine make me a shim to go between the spring and differential on the drivers side?

Yes, I know, I am picky and this kind of stuff drives me nuts.

Thanks for your comments.

The majority will be in the spring. No truck will measure perfect. There are too many tolerances. Tire pressure, your concrete slab, fuel level...

If it sits dead level at a full tank, it will be off at empty. if it is dead level while you're outside the tuck measuring it will be off while you are inside driving it.

You are being too picky here, because there is no way to consistently achieve what you are seeking.

G-Z-M · February 23

45 minutes ago, asilverblazer said:

The majority will be in the spring. No truck will measure perfect. There are too many tolerances. Tire pressure, your concrete slab, fuel level...

If it sits dead level at a full tank, it will be off at empty. if it is dead level while you're outside the tuck measuring it will be off while you are inside driving it.

You are being too picky here, because there is no way to consistently achieve what you are seeking.

I understand all that. I am just wondering if there is a fix to make it level. I will just live with it.