Are you tired of your GMC Sierra looking too low to the ground? Installing a leveling kit is an easy and affordable way to beef up your rig’s style and abilities.
Level up your ride with our comprehensive guide on the various types, pros, and cons of leveling kits for GMC Sierra. Read on for the details!
A leveling kit can be a great addition to your GMC Sierra. Designed to improve ground clearance, lift the front of the truck, and often add larger tires, it provides both practical utility and good looks. These modifications can give your truck a much different look – enabling it to stand out from the crowd.
There are multiple types of leveling kits on the market for GMC Sierras, each designed with specific goals in mind and therefore having different advantages or tradeoffs. It’s useful to know what these are before you decide exactly which one you need. Whether you need more ground clearance for off-road driving or just want to enhance the look of your truck as much as possible with larger tires and wheels, there is plenty of information available that can help you make an informed decision.
In this guide we will go through the types of leveling kits available for GMC Sierras, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as how they should be installed correctly. By knowing even a little bit about these interesting devices, you will be able to make an educated decision about what kind best suits your needs when looking for parts for your GMC Sierra.
Pros of installing a leveling kit on GMC Sierra
A leveling kit can provide all the advantages of a lift kit without compromising on the factory ride quality. Here are some of the benefits you can expect from installing a leveling kit on your GMC Sierra:
- Increased Height: When you install a leveling kit, it raises your GMC Sierra’s front end level with its rear end, which gives it a slight boost in ride height. This can help give your truck clearance for larger tires and bigger wheels and prevent bottoming out when the road is bumpy.
- Improved Handling: The increased height of a leveled GMC Sierra provides improved ride control and handling. The added distance between tire contact with the road surface reduces risk of hydroplaning and improved traction on inclines or declines.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Installing a leveling kit to raise or level your GMC Sierra is usually much less expensive than installing a full lift kit, and often only requires minor modifications to existing components and basic tools to install it correctly – saving time and money in labor costs as well as parts expenses.
- Improved Ground Clearance: When you install a leveling kit, you’re adding extra ground clearance to your truck, allowing it to travel over obstacles that would normally cause issues such as rocks and stumps with ease – improving exploreability off-road, while also allowing you more room for suspension upgrades down the line if needed.
Improved appearance
Installing a leveling kit in your GMC Sierra will give it a more rugged, lifted look. This can be accomplished in several different ways, depending on the type of kit you select. Many kits are designed for two- to four-inch lifts and include coil spacers, aftermarket shocks and control arms that allow for more suspension travel when off-roading. Some kits may also include adjustable spring spacers or heavy-duty extended shock absorbers depending on the particular model of GMC Sierra you have.
With a levelling kit installed, you will enjoy an improved appearance as well as improved handling and performance due to increased tire clearance and stability.
Increased ground clearance
Increased ground clearance is a common reason for installing a leveling kit in your GMC Sierra. A leveling kit consists of blocks, spacers or coil suspension springs which lift the entire front suspension system. This has the effect of lifting the entire front end of your vehicle, meaning you can navigate more rugged terrain. Depending on specific design and type, you may be able to gain from one to three inches additional height on your GMC Sierra’s frame.
One benefit of adding a leveling kit is that it aids when changing tires size for more aggressive off-road drives or recreational hauls. In some cases, larger tires may cause rubbing in certain areas when turning sharply or backing up; this can be ameliorated with increased ground clearance provided by basic kits such as 2 inch leveling kits used on most GMC Sierra 1500 trucks. It should be noted that due to varying body styles and bumper heights, increase in ground space depends on the vehicles make and model; users should check their specifications before proceeding with any modifications.
Better handling and stability
Installing a leveling kit on your GMC Sierra can improve the vehicle’s handling and stability, as it allows for larger tires to be fitted. This is especially true when lifting the vehicle by two inches or more. The increased tire size provides more contact with the ground, thus improving the vehicle’s ability to handle sharp turns and tough terrain and reducing body roll in corners.
In addition, larger tires provide a smoother and more comfortable ride over rough surfaces. Leveling kits also provide additional space for upgrading suspension components such as shocks, stabilizers, springs, and struts that can further enhance off-road capability. On road vehicles gain improved responsiveness with more control over navigation through curves or around obstacles.
While most aftermarket leveling kits are designed to maintain the stock shock function and geometry, custom-designed performance suspensions may need corresponding modifications in order to function properly with a lift kit installation.
Cons of installing a leveling kit on GMC Sierra
There are several drawbacks to consider when deciding to install a leveling kit on a GMC Sierra, including:
– Reduced ride quality: One of the primary reasons people choose a GMC Sierra is for its smooth, comfortable ride. Installing a leveling kit reduces ride quality by increasing the suspension stiffness. This change can cause an uncomfortable and jarring ride as well as an increase in body roll that can affect handling performance.
– Reduced ground clearance: Not only will installing a leveling kit reduce overall ground clearance, it will also reduce the vehicle’s approach and departure angles which may affect off-road performance. Additionally, reducing ground clearance can make the vehicle more prone to damage from obstacles like speed bumps and large rocks.
– Increased tire wear: With increased suspension stiffness comes increased tire wear, especially when cornering at high speed. The increased stiffness causes more weight to be placed on one side of the tire which can lead to uneven wear on both sides of the tire treads. This uneven wear will result in higher levels of tire noise and reduced tread life.
– Potential damage to steering components: If too much tension is placed on steering components or if parts are installed incorrectly, there is potential for serious damage that could put drivers at risk behind the wheel. It is important to ensure that all components are properly installed and adjusted before driving after installation in order to avoid potential problems with steering integrity or stability control mechanisms.
Reduced payload capacity
One of the major disadvantages of installing a leveling kit on your GMC Sierra is a reduction in the truck’s payload capacity. The amount depends on the type and size of the kit you install, but it’s important to take this into consideration before making a purchase.
Installing any type of lift kit alters the geometry of your suspension system, which means that adjustments will need to be made to other components, such as shocks and struts, to compensate for the new alignment. This takes time and resources; therefore most mechanics charge extra for this service, which can add to your overall cost. The reduction in payload capacity is also likely because installing a leveling kit shifts some of your suspension’s weight away from its center point. As a result, when you put weight in the bed or on top of your GMC Sierra—such as when loading cargo—it will aggressively drive down on one side or both, putting excess stress and strain on vulnerable parts.
While the benefits of installing a leveling kit may outweigh these cons for some individuals looking to give their vehicle an off-road feel or increase ground clearance capabilities for muddy trails and steep terrain, understanding these trade-offs is important before making decisions about aftermarket accessories for personal vehicles or custom projects.
Changes in ride quality
When you install a leveling kit on your GMC Sierra, it will slightly alter the ride quality of your truck. This alteration is caused by the taller stance and slightly higher center of gravity that accompanies any suspension suspension adjustment.
The positives of this elevated stance are increased ground clearance for off-road activities, and improved handling when towing or carrying heavier loads. However with this benefit comes a potential downside, namely decreased stability at speed.
Drivers should note that even relatively small adjustments can make a noticeable difference in ride quality, so a thoughtful and measured approach to tuning the suspension is necessary. If your GMC Sierra is not equipped with specific damping adjustments, then purchasing an adjustable system may be the best way to mitigate any adverse ride effects, while still enjoying the benefits that a levelling kit provides. It is important to ensure you’ve optimized both the height and damping to get the desired results.
Voiding of vehicle warranty
When adding a leveling kit to gain additional ground clearance on a GMC Sierra, it is important to be aware that this can void your vehicle’s warranty. Depending on the type of lift chosen, your vehicle’s engine, transmission, and other powertrain and suspension components could potentially be damaged by the kit itself or due to incorrect installation.
The GMC Sierra will travel on a more uneven terrain than it was designed for with a taller center of gravity which can cause excessive stress on suspension components causing premature wear and tear. If any damage is found in these components when the vehicle is brought in for service the automaker may refuse to honor the warranty due to his modification.
It is important that you consult with an experienced automotive technician before deciding upon a leveling kit for your GMC Sierra as they will be able to best advise you of any risks associated with your specific make and model.
Factors to consider before choosing a leveling kit for GMC Sierra
Before choosing a leveling kit it is important to consider a few factors to ensure you get the best fit for your GMC Sierra and its requirements. Key factors to consider include:
- Vehicle make and model: The model of your GMC Sierra will play an important role in selecting the right leveling kit. It is important to select a kit that meets both the factory specifications as well as your specific requirements.
- Leaf springs/coil springs: Different models of GMC Sierras require specific types of leaf or coil springs. It is necessary to find out the type of spring system on your vehicle before selecting the appropriate leveling kit for installation.
- Weight capacity: It is important to consider the weight capacity when installing a leveling kit for greater control over your rig’s rear axle during off-roading activities or heavier loads on long drives such as camping trips, hauling payloads and so on. Your vehicle’s user manual should explain its weight capacity, or an experienced mechanic can provide insights into this particular factor based on its make and model before you choose a leveling lift kit.
- Preference: The type of ride you wish to experience while using your GMC Sierra is also an important factor in choosing the right leveling lift kit for installation in it. In terms of ride quality, most people tend to prefer more comfort with minimal vibrations while others may prioritize performance without compromising steadiness during cornering and other maneuvers while driving at high speeds on highways or rugged terrains off-roads, depending upon their preference at any given time and mood!
Desired lift height
Choosing the desired lift height for your GMC Sierra is an important first step when considering a leveling kit installation. Lift height influences the type of leveling kit you will need and can affect the amount of tire clearance needed to accommodate larger rims and tires. The overall ride quality will also vary depending on how high (or low) you install your leveling kit.
Leveling kits come in a variety of sizes to give your Sierra the right amount of lift, ranging from 0”-3” in height. This range is usually broken down into two categories: 0”-1” and 1” – 3”. If you want to significantly increase the leveled appearance without adding any real lift, a kit 0-1″ range should work well. For larger tire clearance, or if you plan to off-road with your GMC Sierra, then a lift height between 1-3″ could be ideal.
It’s important to note that if set up correctly, your truck should have similar ride quality with either option over small bumps and rough terrain – however, higher lifts like 2″!+ will not provide optimal comfort for larger impacts such as heavy potholes or drop offs on more technical trails.
Suspension type
When it comes to a vehicle as capable as the GMC Sierra, a suspension lift kit can provide you with bigger wheels and tires, a higher ground clearance and a host of other features to make your truck even more impressive. But before you choose which type of suspension system to upgrade your Sierra with, it’s important to understand the different types available and how they will affect your driving experience.
The most common form of suspension lift kits for the GMC Sierra are coilover shocks, leaf springs and crosslink assemblies. Each has its own unique characteristics that will appeal to different drivers.
Coilover shocks – Coilovers are commonly found in racing or high-speed applications, providing improved handling performance while also allowing for greater wheel travel. They consist of two elements – a spring and shock absorber–working in combination to control body side-to-side motion during cornering and road irregularities. This kind of suspension system is ideal for those who want sporty handling but don’t need maximum off-road articulation.
Leaf springs – Leaf springs have been around for decades and are usually used on heavy vehicles such as vans, pickups, busses, motor homes and ambulances. The spring suspends the rear axle on one side by connecting it to the frame at one point per wheel – meaning any extra load applied can cause shift in axle position from left side to right side (or vice versa). Leaf springs provide great durability while also giving a smooth ride over bumps or uneven surfaces.
Crosslink assemblies – Crosslink assemblies work similarly to how leaf springs do but instead of using only two points per wheel like leaf springs do, they use four points which allow them to twist under extreme loads on either side of the vehicle. This keeps both axles in line with each other (regardless if you’re carrying extra weight or not) which allows increased articulation due to decreased compression between both axles when travelling over rough terrain. This makes them great for heavy off-roading vehicles that require extreme articulation when moving over obstacles such as rocks or river beds where up/down motion isn’t always an option because these vehicles require superior lateral articulation so they don’t get stuck between large objects trying going either direction.
Desired performance changes
After installing a leveling kit, many users report enhanced performance changes in their vehicle. These performance changes may include improved off-roading, improved acceleration due to weighted tires and wheels which provide extra traction, increased gas mileage owing to the reduced load on the truck’s drivetrain and engine from the lighter weight of its tires and wheels, better braking capacity because of the additional weight on the vehicle that reduces its stopping time, improved suspension due to the additional space between tire and wheel wells, longer tread life thanks to higher air pressure when using heavier wheels or big-diameter tires which better disperses heat from the road.
They also provide a firmer grip over uneven terrain as well as slight elevation of center of gravity for turning. Although these benefits are generally experienced with most leveling kits for GMC Sierra trucks; it is important to check as there can be small discrepancies based on make and model.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to be informed and make the right decision about whether or not to install a leveling kit for your GMC Sierra. There are several types of kits available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
The factors that must be considered before purchasing a leveling kit include the vehicle’s purpose, the type of terrain it will be used in, the load capacity required and the overall budget. By researching all these elements carefully, a customer can make an educated decision and select the best product for their needs.
Finally, installation is an important factor in determining whether a leveling kit is right for your GMC Sierra. A knowledgeable installer should be able to correctly install and secure your leveling kit correctly to ensure it performs as expected in all conditions and that it preserves the life of your truck.
FAQ’s
What are the different types of leveling kits?
There are two main types of leveling kits: coil spring spacers and strut extensions.
What is the disadvantage of leveling kit?
One of the disadvantages of a leveling kit is that it can cause premature wear and tear on your suspension components.
How do I choose a leveling kit?
When choosing a leveling kit, you should consider factors such as the type of vehicle you have, the amount of lift you want, and your budget.
What are the pros and cons of a leveling kit?
The pros of a leveling kit include improved aesthetics, better ground clearance, and improved off-road performance. The cons include reduced suspension travel, increased wear and tear on suspension components, and potentially reduced ride quality.
Are leveling kits good or bad?
It depends on your specific needs and goals. If you want improved aesthetics and off-road performance, a leveling kit can be a good choice. However, it can also have potential downsides as mentioned earlier.
Does a leveling kit affect 4×4?
Yes, a leveling kit can affect the 4×4 system by altering the vehicle’s center of gravity and changing the angles of the drivetrain components.
Do leveling kits affect handling?
Yes, a leveling kit can affect handling by changing the suspension geometry and altering the vehicle’s center of gravity.
Does leveling truck affect handling?
Yes, leveling a truck can affect handling by changing the suspension geometry and altering the vehicle’s center of gravity.
What are the three advantages of Levelling?
The three advantages of leveling are improved aesthetics, better ground clearance, and improved off-road performance.
Are leveling kits bad for towing?
Leveling kits can potentially have a negative impact on towing capacity and safety, so it’s important to choose the right kit and ensure that your vehicle is still within its towing limits.
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- Best tuner for GMC Sierra
