If you own a truck, you may have wondered if lifting it would be a good idea. Many truck enthusiasts swear by the experience of hitting the open road in a towering, lifted truck. But what exactly is “lifting a truck” and why is it such a popular trend among truck owners?
Lifting your truck means installing suspension lift kits that raise the height of your vehicle’s chassis and allow you to fit larger tires and wheels. It can give your truck a more aggressive and distinctive look and improve its performance on off-road terrain.
But lifting your truck has some problems, like making it cost more, using more gas, and possibly voiding your warranty. So how will lifting your truck change your driving experience? Here are some details to consider before you make your decision.
Benefits of Lifting Your Truck
Better Off-Road Performance
One of the main benefits of lifting your truck is that it enhances its ability to handle rough terrain and overcome obstacles. Higher ground clearance means avoiding scraping or damaging your underbody on rocks, logs, or bumps.
A larger wheelbase means traversing deeper water, mud, sand, or snow without getting stuck. And a better suspension system means you can absorb shocks and bumps more smoothly and comfortably.
If you enjoy off-roading or live in an area with challenging weather conditions, installing basic lifting kits on your truck can make your driving experience more fun and adventurous.
Improved Towing Capacity
A lifted truck has more leverage and a weight advantage against a load, especially with fifth-wheel hitches that add weight to the back.
A stock suspension may cause your truck to squat or sag when towing a heavy load, affecting its handling and braking. A lifted suspension can prevent this problem by keeping your truck level and balanced.
If you frequently tow trailers, boats, or other vehicles with your truck, installing lift kits can make your driving experience safer and easier.
Enhanced Visibility
A higher seating position means you have a better view of the traffic ahead and behind you. You can also spot potential hazards or obstacles more easily and react accordingly. Driving in crowded or unfamiliar areas can give you more confidence and peace of mind.
Drawbacks of Lifting Your Truck
Higher Cost
Lifting your truck involves a significant investment. You may spend thousands of dollars on this modification, depending on the type and quality of the lift kit you choose and the installation fees.
You may also need to buy new tires and wheels to match your lifted suspension, which can add to the cost. And don’t forget the cost of maintenance.
Trucks that have been lifted need alignments, tire rotations, and brake checks more often. If you don’t have the budget or don’t want to spend too much on your vehicle’s appearance or performance upgrades, lifting it may not be worth it.
Lower Fuel Efficiency
Another disadvantage of lifting your truck is that it reduces its fuel economy. It is because lifting increases your vehicle’s weight and drag, making it work harder to move forward. It also changes its aerodynamics by creating more wind resistance, which lowers its gas mileage even further.
The larger tires and wheels with most lift kits also contribute to this problem by increasing rolling resistance. All these factors mean that lifted trucks consume more gas than stock trucks, which can affect your wallet and the environment.
Warranty Issues
Some manufacturers don’t allow aftermarket changes, like lift kits, because they change how the product was originally made. It means they may deny coverage for any damages or defects caused by or related to these modifications. You may also have trouble finding an insurer who will cover your lifted truck at an affordable rate.
Some states also have laws that regulate how high vehicles can be lifted. To avoid these issues, you should check with your dealer, manufacturer, insurer, and local authorities before lifting your truck.
Factors to Consider Before Lifting Your Truck
Type of lift kit (body or suspension)
The first factor you must consider is what type of lift kit you want for your truck. You can choose between suspension lift kits and body lift kits.
Body Lift Kits
A body lift kit raises the truck’s body off the frame by adding spacers between them. It creates more space for larger tires and gives your truck a more aggressive appearance. However, it does not affect the suspension or handling of your truck, nor does it improve its off-road performance.
A body lift kit is usually cheaper and more straightforward to install than a suspension lift kit, but it may also create gaps between the body and frame that can expose the wiring and other components.
Suspension Lift Kits
A suspension lift kit increases the height of the suspension by replacing or modifying parts such as springs, shocks, control arms, and leaf packs. It improves your suspension’s ground clearance, articulation, and travel, making driving off-road easier and more comfortable.
It also allows you to fit larger tires and wheels on your truck without rubbing issues. However, a suspension lift kit is usually more expensive and complicated to install than a body lift kit. It may also affect your truck’s ride quality, steering geometry, braking system, drivetrain alignment, and fuel economy.
Desired lift height
The desired lift height will depend on your personal preferences and the intended use of your truck.
Do you want to give your truck a more aggressive look, or do you need more clearance for off-roading? The height of your lift will also affect your truck’s overall handling and stability, so it’s important to choose a height that fits your driving habits.
Budget
Consider how much you are willing to spend lifting your truck. The cost of lifting your truck depends on several factors, such as:
● Type of lift kit that you choose
● Size of the lift that you want
● Brand and quality of the parts that you use
● Labor fees for installation
● Additional modifications that you may need
Generally, a body lift kit will cost between $100 and $500, while a suspension lift kit will cost between $1,000 and $5,000. If you opt to have a professional install the kit, you’ll likely pay high hundreds for a body kit or low to mid thousands for a suspension kit.
You may also need to pay extra for other modifications, like:
● Aligning or adjusting the drivetrain components
● Upgrading or recalibrating the brakes
● Replacing or extending the brake lines
● Installing new tires and wheels
● Tuning or reprogramming the engine computer
Therefore, you should check your budget before lifting your truck and shop for different options and prices.
Driving habits and intended use of the truck
When deciding on a lift kit, your driving habits and the truck’s intended use are important considerations. You may need a more robust suspension lift kit if you plan on using your truck for off-roading or heavy-duty work.
On the other hand, a body lift kit may be sufficient if you’re mainly using your truck for commuting and daily driving.
Local laws and regulations
Finally, it’s important to consider local laws and regulations. Some states have restrictions on the maximum lift height for vehicles, so research the laws in your area before making your decision.
Conclusion
Lifting a truck can enhance your off-road experience, provide better ground clearance, and improve the truck’s appearance. On the other hand, it can increase the risk of rollovers, reduce fuel efficiency, and lead to costly modifications.
Before deciding, consider factors such as the driving you will be doing, your budget, the amount of lift you want, and the potential drawbacks. It’s also important to consult with a reputable mechanic or truck specialist who can advise you on the best course of action.
Ultimately, the decision to lift your truck is personal and should be based on your needs and preferences. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, and consider all the factors before making a final decision.
