How to Lift a Truck

It doesn’t matter if you’re a Chevy, GMC, Nissan, RAM, or Jeep enthusiast—the power of a quality lift kit should never be understated. These performance-enhancing and visually stunning additions give you the power to take you where the stock vehicle can’t—and look pretty good doing it! Lifting a truck can be one of the most rewarding upgrades for any truck owner, but installing a lift on a truck isn’t the easiest task. It’s no wonder one of our most frequently asked questions from Birmingham and Hoover drivers is: How do I lift my truck?

Granted, there are some obvious contrasts when it comes to lift kits and leveling kits, but this general introduction should get you acquainted with the basics of lifting a truck. 

How Do I Lift My Truck? 

Have you ever asked yourself, “How do I lift my truck?” The best way to start is by acquiring the proper tools. Here are the tools you need to install a lift on a truck: 

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

When you’re lifting a truck, it’s a good idea to always keep a hammer and pry bar. This is your go-to when you encounter any old components that pose a challenge to remove. WD-40 is also your best friend when you put a lift on a truck—you’re almost certain to encounter tight joints that won’t budge. Grabbing a few spare nuts and bolts can help when you’re lifting a truck. 

It’s worth noting that this is just the standard list of must-have tools. Depending on the specifics of your vehicle, you might need specialty tools when learning how to lift a truck. 

The good news is, if you need any of the parts above for lifting a truck, or the lift kit itself, all of the parts are available for online order. Alternatively, our parts team loves seeing customers in person if you’d rather drop by. Just let us know you’re lifting a truck, and we’ll be sure to get you all the components you need. 

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

The best guide for any lift kit is the one that came with the specific kit you purchased! Remember—every lit kit is different, and they are uniquely configured based on the model. That said, the following steps act as a general overview to provide guidance to new DIY lift-kit installers. After ensuring you’ve purchased the appropriate lift kit, you can start your project: 

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. 
2. Tires come off easier if you loosen the lug nuts first. Break them before you raise the truck. 
3. Raise and steady your vehicle with jack stands. 
4. Completely remove the wheels and tires. 
5. U-bolts, shocks, and springs should be removed next. 
6. Attach the new bolts based on the specific instructions that came with your kit. Follow the same with the new shocks and springs. 
7. Using a torque wrench, adjust everything to the specified tightness. 
8. Replace your tires. 
9. Carefully lower the vehicle. 

Depending on the scale of your modifications, you might also need to install a longer driveshaft, a new transfer case, or some other additional components.

Your lift kit should be complete and looking good. However, before heading on a Tuscaloosa adventure, it’s a good idea to schedule an inspection at your local Brady Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram service center. A second set of eyes will help to ensure that everything goes as planned.

How Long Does it Take to Lift a Truck?

Now that you’re familiar with how to lift a truck, you should ensure you have enough time to finalize the job. It might be slightly easier to install leveling kits as opposed to off-road-ready suspension lift kits—but neither is quick by any means. 

It takes a trained technician between seven and fifteen hours to install a full kit. Even if you’re a DIY service expert, you should prepare to spend twice that amount of time working on yours. As a general rule, set a whole weekend aside to complete your installation. 

Should I Lift My Truck at Home?

Lifting a truck will be a difficult task no matter how you slice it. You’ll need a full set of the right tools and a significant amount of patience. Installing a lift kit can be costly, but do your best to avoid the temptation of saving money if you’re not 100% confident in your tools and ability. Considering the risk of damaging your vehicle, the cost of lifting a truck might be cheaper in the long run if the unthinkable happens. 

Get Your Truck Lifted at Brady Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

By now, you should have a general idea of how to lift a truck at home! However, you should know that in nine cases out of ten, it’s going to be quicker, easier, and less risky to schedule service with your local Brady Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram service center. It might even end up being cheaper! Either way, the next time you hear someone ask, “How do I lift my truck?” you’ll know how to help!