How to Lift a Truck

There’s a reason why so many Milford haulers love lifted trucks. However, novice drivers and veteran pickup drivers alike have often found themselves wondering, “How do I lift my truck?” Fortunately, our certified service technicians have you covered. Find out how to lift a truck with the experts at Kent County Motors below! 

Body Lift Kits vs. Suspension Lift Kits

Lifting a truck requires one of two kits: either a suspension lift kit or a body lift kit. We typically recommend body lift kits to our customers who are doing this for the first time. Body lift kits are also great if you’re practicing how to lift a truck. Body kits are easier to use than suspension kits and are easier to install. We’ve broken down the biggest differences between each kit:

Body Lift

• Can increase your truck’s height by 1 to 3 inches (not as high as a suspension lift)
• Is less expensive than a suspension lift
• Is far simpler than a suspension lift

Suspension Lift

• Can lift your truck 4 to 6 inches (twice as much as a body lift)
• Is more expensive than a body lift, and may require the purchase of additional parts
• Is more complex than a body lift

How Do I Lift My Truck?

Before you begin lifting your truck, you’ll want to have the proper tools and equipment on hand. That’s why we’ve broken down a list of the most common resources you’ll utilize during a truck lift for your convenience:

• Vehicle jacks and jack stands
• Socket wrench
• Torque wrench
• Lug wrench
• Screwdriver
• Body lift kit -or- suspension lift kit

Now that you know what tools you’ll need for the job, there’s simply one question remaining: “How do I lift my truck?” Simply follow the instructions outlined below:

1. Remove the negative battery cable.
2. Loosen the lug nuts, so the tires are (but don’t remove the tires).
3. Use your jack and jack stands to raise the vehicle.
4. Remove the wheels and tires.
5. Remove the old U-bolts, along with your vehicle’s current shocks and springs.
6. Attach the new bolts and, while assembling any parts according to the instructions that came with your kit.
7. Attach the new shocks and suspension.
8. Use your torque wrench to make sure that all pieces and bolts are tightened according to the proper specifications.
9. Mount the tires.
10. Lower your vehicle carefully, keeping it as level as possible as it inches toward the ground.

Get Premium Service at Kent County Motors

Are you, not the biggest fan of conducting your own DIY repairs? Our service team is always here to help you install genuine Buick, GMC parts whenever you’d like! Simply schedule service at Kent County Motors to set up a time that best works for your schedule!