How to Lift a Truck

If you’re a skilled off-roader, you may be looking for additional ground clearance over obstacles. Or you may like larger tires’ aesthetic appeal and space underneath the chassis. There’s a definite appeal to customizing your Ford, Jeep, Chevy, GMC, RAM, Nissan, or Toyota truck with a lift kit. Lift kits can be costly, so if you’re skilled with care maintenance, you may wonder, “How do I lift my truck?” There are many things to consider when approaching how to lift a truck, including the type of kit used. While there are distinct differences in the type of kit –suspension lift kit, body lift kit, or leveling lift kit– we’ll cover what you need to know to customize your truck with these enhancements. Don’t hesitate to contact our service center if you have any questions.

Essential Tools for Lifting a Truck

When lifting your truck, you’ll need these tools: 

• Vehicle jacks and jack stands
• Socket wrench
• Torque wrench
• Lug wrench
• Screwdriver

It’s also a good idea to have a pry bar and a hammer on hand to remove any stubborn parts. WD-40, or a penetrating oil of your choice, is also helpful for loosening tight joints. While the best venue for lifting a truck is a fully stocked shop, be sure you have access to additional supplies like extra nuts and bolts to help ease the installation process. If you need help locating any tools or parts, outline what you need in our parts order form, and you can pick it up at the Hadwin-White Buick GMC, Inc. parts department.

How Do I Lift My Truck? A Step-by-Step Guide

While we’ll give you an overview of how to lift a truck, an online guide shouldn’t substitute for the instructions included with your lift kit. This guide aims to give you an idea of what to expect and help you decide whether to perform the task yourself or hire a professional. 

Ensure the kit you purchased is compatible with your vehicle’s specifications, and follow these steps for how to lift a truck at your Carolina Forest-area home: 

1. Remove the negative cable from your battery.
2. While your vehicle is on the ground, loosen the lug nuts on the tires to help make them easier to remove.
3. Take the time to raise your vehicle with your jack and jack stands. This will ensure that the vehicle’s center of gravity is where it should be. 
4. Once the vehicle is raised, remove the wheels and tires and set them aside.
5. Remove the old U-bolts and your vehicle’s current shocks and springs.
6. Assemble any parts according to the instructions the kit came with. Then attach the new bolts, shocks, and suspension. 
7. With a torque wrench, ensure all the pieces and bolts are tightened according to the proper specifications.
8. Now, you can attach your old tires or a set of new ones if you want bigger ones for the desired performance.
9. Slowly lower your vehicle. Ensure it stays as level as possible as you return it to the ground.

Based on your modifications, you may also need to install a longer driveshaft, a new transfer case, or other additional components.

These are the basic steps for how to install a lift kit. However, it’s a good idea to schedule a service appointment to ensure the kit is installed correctly. You don’t want to take any chances when you’re pushing your truck to handle rugged terrain on the trails around Myrtle Beach and Red Hill. 

How Long is the Lifted Truck Process?

Before trying to lift your truck, you’ll want to make sure you have time to complete the process. Keep in mind that some kits are easier to install than others. A leveling kit is quicker than trying to install a more extensive, off-road-ready suspension lift kit. However, neither job is a quick one. 

Typically, trained and certified technicians can take anywhere from seven to fifteen hours to install a lift kit. Even if you have experience completing DIY services, you can expect to spend at least twice as much time installing the kit yourself. Often, those experienced with completing car service can get it done on a weekend when installing it at home. However, you probably shouldn’t attempt the process if you aren’t familiar with suspension systems. 

Should I Lift My Truck?

If you’re wondering, “How do I lift my truck?” take the time to consider all your options. Lifting a truck is a complex and time-consuming process. Although lift kits can be expensive, taking them to a professional may be cheaper than purchasing the correct parts and doing this yourself.

This guide is just an overview of the lift kit installation process. It’s worth repeating that you should use the instructions with the lift kit as the guide for installing your specific lift kit. 

Schedule Your Lift Service at Hadwin-White Buick GMC, Inc.

Now that you know how to lift a truck, contact our team at Hadwin-White Buick GMC, Inc. if you have any questions. We understand the excitement that comes with performing your service. Explore other service tips and tricks to maintain your vehicle’s maintenance.