03 Sierra Z71 Lifting With Keys?

[sirbigspur]

Hey everyone,

 

I just bought a 2003 Sierra Z71. I want to raise the front end up. I have heard that you can replace the front keys with a kit that will raise the front end 2" to 3".

 

I don''''t know the details of how to do this. Do I need certain Keys? Do I need to adjust or replace anything else other than the keys? And if it''''s too much to ask, about how much would all this cost?

 

Those are the questions. Any comments or advice would be awesome.

 

Thanks,

Spur

[L29er]

yea there are kits available put one on my bros 08 durry, i think it was 300 bucks, included 2 keys, 2" rear blocks and ubolts w/hardware plus front shock extension mounts. you will need a special tool to remove and install keys, my bro and i did it in about 5 hours, but we also installed an extra leaf on both sides of the rear. replacinng the keys is not exactly FUN, we did it on the shop floor, but if you have acces to a hoist USE IT!

 

Just so you know ALOT of extra stress will be put on front end components, ball joints and idler and pitman arms will wear more rapidly....):

[Majorleaguebass]

08??? They dont have torsion keys.....btw, cranking your keys more than 1.5 inch is a no no, it will wear your front end out super quick

[2000DV4.8]

08??? They dont have torsion keys.....btw, cranking your keys more than 1.5 inch is a no no, it will wear your front end out super quick

 

The HDs do.

 

And I agree on the height. If you go over 1.5", your ride will be CRAP, and you will wear out suspension and steering components like crazygonuts.

 

To the OP, search on here for 'torsion bars' or 'cranking' or something similar, and you'll find a lot of good info.

[sirbigspur]

Thanks for all the good info guys. I really appreciate this.

 

From what I can tell, tightening or replacing the keys is not a good way to go. Do you guys know anything else that may be cheaper than a suspension lift? This is my first full size truck and I don't have a wealth of experience with them. So, once again...any info is very appreciated.

 

Thanks, Spur

[2000DV4.8]

How much lift are you looking for? If it's 2-3", I'd go with a body lift, they can be had for 200-300 bucks, and install can be done in your driveway in a weekend if you and a couple buddies have some mechanical know-how. If you want it professionally installed, lift + install will probably be close to a grand, plus the cost of tires & wheels.

 

Long story short, there's no cheap way to lift a truck, and any way that SEEMS cheap initially, will probably cause undue stress and wear, and be more expensive in the long run.