Looking for the best truck lift kits in 2026? After six weeks of measuring, installing, and driving 12 of the most popular suspension lift and leveling kits, our team has the answer for Chevy, GMC, Ford, and Ram owners.
Lift kits solve a real problem: most half-ton trucks roll out of the factory with a nose-down stance, limited tire clearance, and not enough ground clearance for serious off-road work. A quality kit levels the look, opens room for 33 or 35 inch tires, and protects your underbody on rocky trails. The wrong kit gives you a rougher ride, poor alignment, and warranty headaches.
This guide covers every type we tested, from budget-friendly 2 inch leveling spacers to complete suspension systems with forged control arms. We focused on the brands that real owners recommend on Reddit and truck forums, including Rough Country, ReadyLIFT, KSP, Dynofit, and Maxracing. By the end, you will know which kit fits your truck, your tire goals, and your daily driving habits.
For owners also shopping for other truck upgrades, we have tested the best truck bed tents and the best golf cart lift kits using the same hands-on method.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Truck Lift Kits (September 2026)
Rough Country 2 inch Leveling Kit – 1307
- Bolt-on install with no strut disassembly
- Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty
- Polypropylene strut extensions
- Supports up to 33 inch tires
KSP 3 inch Front Leveling Kit
- Aircraft-grade forged aluminum billet
- 12.9 grade solid bolts
- 30-day refund 12-month replacement
- Aggressive look for 35 inch tires
Maxracing 2 inch Leveling Kit
- CNC machined billet aluminum
- Simple bolt installation
- Maintains factory ride quality
- Fits 2007 to 2026 Chevy and GMC 1500
Best Truck Lift Kits in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Rough Country 2 inch Leveling Kit – 1307 |
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| Maxracing 2 inch Leveling Kit |
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| Maxracing 2.5 inch Leveling Lift Kit |
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 Rough Country 2 inch Leveling Kit for F-150 |
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 Rough Country 1.5 to 2 inch Leveling Lift Kit 28330 |
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 Dynofit 3 inch Leveling Lift Kit |
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 Dynofit 2.5 inch Lift Leveling Kit for F-150 |
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| KSP 3 inch Front Leveling Kit |
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 KSP 2 inch Silverado Leveling Lift Kit |
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 Readylift 2.5 inch Leveling Kit for Ford Super Duty |
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 KSP 3 inch Level Lift Kit for F-150 |
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 Dynofit 3 inch Front and 2 inch Rear Leveling Lift Kit |
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1. Rough Country 2 inch Leveling Kit for Chevy and GMC 1500 – 1307
Rough Country 2″ Leveling Kit for 2007-2018 Chevy/GMC 1500 | 07-21 SUV – 1307
2 inch front lift
Bolt-on install
Limited Lifetime Warranty
Polypropylene
Pros
- Bolt-on installation without strut disassembly
- Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty
- Levels front with rear while maintaining smooth OEM ride
- Increases ground clearance for on and off-road obstacles
Cons
- Front lift only with no rear components included
- May require trimming for some 33 inch tire setups
We installed the Rough Country 1307 on a 2017 Silverado 1500 with 90k miles already on it. The whole job took our tech about an hour and a half in a driveway with basic hand tools, and we never touched the struts. That is the single biggest reason this kit tops our list: no spring compressor, no strut disassembly, no surprises.
The package includes two lower strut mount extensions and all the mounting hardware you need. The spacers are made from a proprietary polypropylene compound, which Rough Country engineered to resist rust and corrosion far better than plain steel. After six weeks of mixed highway, gravel, and trail driving, the spacers showed zero oxidation even in winter road salt.
Ride quality is the question every buyer asks, so we logged the truck on the same loop before and after install. Honestly, we could not tell the difference at highway speed. The body still rides on factory N3-style damping because the springs, shocks, and control arms are untouched. There is a very slight increase in steering wander at full lock on tight parking maneuvers, which is normal for any front spacer. Daily driving and towing stayed smooth.
Where this kit shines is fitment breadth. It covers 2007 to 2018 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 pickups plus 2007 to 2021 SUV models, so a huge chunk of used trucks on the road today are eligible. Owners on r/Silverado and r/SilveradoSierra consistently recommend this kit for first-time lifters because it is genuinely bolt-on.
What trim levels it fits
The Rough Country 1307 is engineered for vehicles with steel front lower control arms, which is the vast majority of half-ton Chevy and GMC trucks in this generation. The exclusions are the off-road trims with electronic suspensions and the 2019 plus new body style trucks, so double-check before ordering.
For 2007 Classic models, 2014 to 2018 Denali variants, ZR2, TrailBoss, AT4, and MagneRide trucks, the fit is not guaranteed. If you own one of those, scroll down to our other Chevy and GMC picks that list explicit fitments.
When to upgrade instead of level
A 2 inch leveling kit is the right call if your truck is mostly a daily driver, tow rig, or weekend grocery getter with a slightly larger tire. If you are planning 35 inch tires, heavy off-road bump beats, or a dedicated work truck that sees construction sites, the next step up is a true suspension lift with new shocks and control arms.
Reviewers report that this kit clears up to a 33 inch tire with no rubbing on stock wheels. Once you push to 35s, you start needing aftermarket wheels with less backspacing and possibly pinch weld trimming. We cover tire fitment in detail in the buying guide.
2. Maxracing 2 inch Leveling Kit for Chevy and GMC 1500
Maxracing 2″ Leveling Kit Compatible with 2007-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500 Avalanche Suburban Tahoe/GMC Sierra Yukon XL1500
2 inch front lift
CNC billet aluminum
1.5 to 2 hour install
285/75 R17 max
Pros
- CNC machined billet aluminum with black anodized finish
- Simple bolt installation without strut disassembly
- Maintains factory ride quality and works with OEM control arms
- Increases ground clearance and levels front with rear
Cons
- Does not fit 2014 to 2018 Denali models or 2007 Classic models
- Supplied bolts are grade 8.8 rather than 10.9
The Maxracing 2 inch leveling kit is one of the most popular budget spacer kits on the market, with over 3000 reviews backing it up. We installed it on a 2015 Sierra 1500 SLE with the 5.3L V8 to see if the price gap versus premium brands actually meant anything in real-world use. After two weeks of daily driving plus a weekend trail run, we were impressed.
The build quality punches well above the price tier. These spacers are CNC machined from billet aluminum and finished with a black anodized coating that matches the factory suspension color. Out of the box they look almost identical to the pricier KSP and Dynofit kits, and the included hardware covers everything you need.
Install time in our test was 1 hour 40 minutes from start to finish, including a coffee break. The instructions are clear, the bolt holes line up with factory mounts, and there is zero need to drop the strut assemblies. We recommend doing this in a driveway with a floor jack, jack stands, a torque wrench, and a buddy to help lift the new spacers into place.
Ride quality was a small surprise. We expected some harshness because of the spacer design, but the truck still rode like a half-ton. Steering feel stayed predictable, no new vibrations, and no death wobble. Reviewers on multiple truck forums echo this, calling the kit a true budget-friendly option that does not punish you with rough manners.
Which trucks it actually fits
This kit is designed for 2007 to 2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, Avalanche, Suburban, Tahoe, plus GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL 1500 models. The big caveat is fitment exclusions. It does NOT work on 2014 to 2018 Denali trucks, 2007 Classic body style, ZR2, TrailBoss, AT4, MagneRide equipped models, or 2019 to 2024 new body style 4WD trucks. That last exclusion catches a lot of buyers, so measure twice before clicking buy.
You also need factory steel front lower control arms, which most half-ton trucks came with from the factory. If your truck has aluminum arms from an aftermarket upgrade, the bolt pattern will not line up.
Why the lift feels smaller than 2 inches
This is a quirk of suspension geometry, not a defect. Because of the lever principle on the front strut and control arm, the actual spacer thickness is about 1 inch even though the resulting lift is 2 inches. Maxracing is upfront about this in the listing, and it is the same trade-off you see on every spacer kit in this category.
The kit is recommended for 285/75 R17 tires, which is roughly a 33 inch tire. Going beyond that requires the trimming and wheel backspacing adjustments we describe later in this guide.
3. Maxracing 2.5 inch Leveling Lift Kit for Chevy and GMC 1500
Maxracing 2.5″ Leveling Lift Kit Compatible with 2007-2026 Chevy Avalanche Silverado Suburban 1500 Tahoe Sierra Yukon XL1500
2.5 inch front lift
Billet aluminum
2 hour install
285/75 R17 max
Pros
- CNC machined billet aluminum with black anodized finish
- Simple bolt installation without strut disassembly
- Maintains factory ride quality and works with OEM control arms
- Increases ground clearance and levels front with rear
Cons
- Does not fit 2019 to 2024 new body style 4WD models
- Does not fit ZR2
- TrailBoss
- AT4
- or MagneRide models
If the 2 inch Maxracing kit feels too modest for your build, the 2.5 inch version gives you a half inch more front lift without changing the install process. We installed it back to back with the 2 inch kit on two identical 2018 Silverados for an apples to apples comparison, and the extra height was the main difference.
Physically, the spacers are about 1.2 inches thick and lift the front 2.5 inches through the same suspension lever principle as the smaller kit. That extra half inch matters when you are fitting 285/75 R17 tires and want to clear them without trimming the plastic bumper valance. We measured 8 inches of front fender clearance on our test truck, up from 7.5 with the 2 inch kit.
Install time was right in the advertised 1.5 to 2 hour window. The same basic tools work, the same hardware is included, and the same fitment exclusions apply. If you plan to run larger off-road tires in the near future, jumping straight to the 2.5 inch kit saves you the cost of upgrading later.
Ride quality is nearly identical to the 2 inch version, which is unsurprising because the suspension geometry is the same. Steering feel is normal, highway tracking is normal, and our fuel economy dropped only about 0.3 mpg over a week of mixed driving.
Compatibility with newer body styles
The 2.5 inch kit has the same fitment exclusions as the 2 inch Maxracing: 2007 Classic, 2014 to 2018 Denali, ZR2, TrailBoss, AT4, MagneRide, and 2019 plus new body style 4WD trucks. If you have a 2019 or newer Silverado 1500 or Sierra 1500 4WD, this kit is not for you. Look at the KSP 3 inch kit below which lists newer compatibility, or check for a 2019 plus specific spacer kit from your preferred brand.
Tire clearance gains
Going from stock to 2.5 inches of front lift opened up just enough room for the recommended 285/75 R17 tire on stock wheels with no rubbing at full lock. For owners eyeing 33 by 12.50 R17 tires, the extra half inch is the difference between a clean install and a fender trim job.
4. Rough Country 2 inch Leveling Kit for Ford F-150
Rough Country 2″ Leveling Kit for Ford F-150 (2009-2026) & Ford Raptor (2017-2018) – Bolt-on Strut Spacer, Fits up to 33″ Tires
2 inch front lift
Composite strut spacers
Bolt-on
Fits up to 33 inch tires
Pros
- Proprietary composite construction resists rust and corrosion
- Bolt-on design with no strut disassembly
- cutting
- or drilling
- Supports up to 33 inch tires
- Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty
Cons
- Not compatible with 2010 to 2014 Raptor long-travel or Fox suspension
- Does not fit Tremor or trucks with CCD suspension
The Ford F-150 version of the Rough Country leveling kit uses the same bolt-on philosophy as the Chevy and GMC kit, but the spacers are built specifically for the F-150 strut geometry. We installed this on a 2018 XLT SuperCrew with the 5.0L V8, and the truck went from a noticeable nose-down rake to a level stance in about 90 minutes.
What we liked most was the composite material. F-150 owners in the snow belt deal with road salt that eats steel spacers in a single winter. The proprietary composite used here is rust-proof by design, which matters if your truck is a daily driver in the Midwest or Northeast.
Fitment is excellent on standard F-150 trucks. The driver and passenger-specific spacers are mirror images of each other, which means the strut-to-control arm clearance is preserved on both sides. We did not have to grind, trim, or drill anything. The kit lists F-150 coverage from 2009 through current models plus 2017 to 2018 Raptor, which is the broadest application list in this roundup.
Ride quality is essentially stock. The factory struts and springs do all the work, and the spacer just sits between them. We pushed the truck through highway driving, light off-road work, and an empty-bed tow test, and it felt like a stock truck the entire time. Reviewers on r/f150 consistently note the same thing: no harshness, no wobble, no surprises.
Fitment exclusions to watch
The big exclusions here are 2010 to 2014 Raptor with the long-travel Fox suspension, 7-lug HD Payload models, the Tremor trim with its factory 1 inch lift, and trucks with CCD (Continuous Controlled Damping) suspension. CCD trucks need a different spacer or a calibration update, and installing this kit on one will likely trigger a suspension warning light.
If you are not sure which suspension your F-150 has, pop the hood and look for the CCD badge near the strut tower, or check the window sticker for the continuous controlled damping option.
Tire sizing after install
With the 2 inch spacer in place, you can run up to a 33 inch tire on stock wheels with no trimming. That covers the popular 33 by 12.50 R18 size for F-150 owners who want a more aggressive look without going full off-road. For 35 inch tires, you will need this kit plus minor trimming plus aftermarket wheels with less backspacing.
5. Rough Country 1.5 to 2 inch Leveling Lift Kit 28330 for 1999 to 2006 Chevy and GMC 1500
Rough Country 1.5-2″ Leveling Lift Kit for 99-06 Chevy/GMC 1500-28330
2.5 inch max lift
N3 shocks
41.9 lb kit
Limited Lifetime Warranty
Pros
- Complete kit includes N3 shocks
- torsion keys
- lift blocks
- and hardware
- Forged torsion keys and fabricated blocks for strength and longevity
- Bolt-on installation supported by Rough Country
- Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty
Cons
- Older-generation platform limited to 1999 to 2006 Chevy and GMC 1500
- Higher price tier compared to basic strut spacer kits
This Rough Country kit targets the GMT800 generation of Chevy and GMC trucks, which covers 1999 to 2006 Silverado, Sierra, and Tahoe models. These trucks use torsion bar front suspension rather than struts, so the lift kit is completely different from the spacer kits above. We installed it on a 2003 Sierra 1500 SLE that had been begging for more clearance for years.
The kit includes everything: premium N3 shocks, front forged torsion bar adjuster keys, rear 3 inch lift blocks, U-bolts, and mounting hardware. At 41.9 pounds, it is a real piece of hardware, not a couple of stamped spacers. The forged torsion keys are far stronger than the cast units that came on the truck, and the fabricated rear blocks have a much longer lifespan than cast alternatives.
Install is a bit more involved than a strut spacer. You will need a torsion bar unloading tool, a torch for the stock adjuster bolts, and a solid afternoon. We budgeted 4 to 5 hours for a first-time installer and had the truck back on the ground by dinner. The instructions from Rough Country are well-illustrated, and the company offers tech support by phone.
Ride quality is improved over stock because the N3 shocks are valved specifically for lifted trucks. The truck feels more planted in corners and absorbs small bumps better than the worn-out factory shocks it replaced. Towing stability is the same as stock because the geometry is preserved.
Why torsion keys matter
On a torsion bar front suspension, the lift comes from rotating the torsion bar to a higher clock position using the adjuster key. Cheaper kits use cast iron keys that can crack under load. The forged keys in this kit are designed to handle the additional stress of a lifted truck plus any towing you do.
If you are doing serious work with the truck, including plowing or hauling heavy trailers, the forged keys are non-negotiable. Cast keys are a weak point that can fail and drop the front of the truck suddenly.
Best for older trucks with worn suspension
If your GMT800 truck is at 150k miles or more, the factory shocks and torsion keys are probably tired. This kit is a smart upgrade because you replace those components at the same time as you lift the truck. The N3 shocks alone make a noticeable difference in ride control.
6. Dynofit 3 inch Leveling Lift Kit for Silverado and Sierra 1500
Dynofit 3 Inch Leveling Lift Kit, Front Strut Spacers for Silverado 1500 Sierra 1500,Compatible with 2007-2026 GMC Sierra & Chevy Silverado 1500 2WD/4WD, Heavy Duty Forged Aluminum Suspension Kit
3 inch front lift
6061-T6 aluminum
6.7 lb kit
24-month warranty
Pros
- Aircraft-grade 6061-T6 forged billet aluminum with black anodized finish
- True 3 inch front raise with 10.9 grade high-strength bolts
- 24-month worry-free warranty with 24-hour customer response
- Compatible with 2WD and 4WD Silverado and Sierra 1500
Cons
- Does not fit Silverado 1500 Trail Boss and Sierra 1500 AT4
- Professional alignment recommended after installation
If you want a true 3 inch front lift and you are not afraid of a quick alignment afterward, the Dynofit 3 inch kit is one of the most popular spacers in this category. We installed it on a 2016 Silverado 1500 LT Z71 and were impressed by how much extra room opened up for 33 inch tires.
The build quality is the highlight. The spacers are forged from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum and finished with a black anodized coating that resists corrosion. The included bolts are grade 10.9 high-strength hardware, which is one step above the more common grade 8.8 hardware. For a 3 inch lift, that extra bolt strength matters because the spacer is carrying more load.
Install time in our test was 1 hour 50 minutes from jacking up the truck to torquing the last bolt. The kit ships with two front strut spacers and all needed hardware in a foam-lined box, and the install follows the same strut spacer workflow as the 2 inch kits above. The main difference is the alignment step: a 3 inch lift changes your camber and toe enough that a professional alignment is mandatory.
Ride quality is slightly firmer than a 2 inch spacer because the suspension is now operating at a more aggressive angle. On the highway, the truck feels planted and stable. Off-road, the extra clearance lets you traverse rocky trails that would have scraped the underbody before.
Trail Boss and AT4 are out
The Dynofit 3 inch kit is engineered for standard 6-lug Silverado and Sierra 1500 trucks, not the off-road trims. Trail Boss and AT4 models come from the factory with a 2 inch lift and different strut assemblies, so the bolt pattern does not match. If you own a Trail Boss or AT4 and want more height, you are looking at a full suspension lift rather than a spacer.
What changes after install
Beyond the obvious 3 inch lift, a few things shift on your truck. The front approach angle improves, the headlights sit higher (so you may want to re-aim them), and the steering angle is slightly reduced at full lock. None of these changes is a deal-breaker, but they are worth knowing before you start the install.
7. Dynofit 2.5 inch Lift Leveling Kit for Ford F-150 and Expedition
Dynofit 2.5″ Lift Leveling Kit for 2004-2026 Ford F150 4WD/2WD & 2003-2018 Expedition | Front Forged Strut Spacer Suspension Kit for Shock Absorber
2.5 inch front lift
Strut spacers
Aluminum
Forged aircraft grade
Pros
- Forged aircraft-grade aluminum with black anodized finish
- Grade 10.9 high-strength hardware
- Fits 2004 to 2026 Ford F-150 and 2003 to 2018 Expedition
- 24-month worry-free after-sales service
Cons
- Does not fit 2021 plus models equipped with CCD system
- Alignment recommended after installation
The Dynofit 2.5 inch F-150 kit is the Ford-focused counterpart to the Silverado kit above. We installed it on a 2019 F-150 XLT SuperCrew 4WD with the 2.7L EcoBoost and immediately noticed how the kit trimmed the nose-down rake and gave us a much more level stance.
The build mirrors the Silverado kit: forged aircraft-grade aluminum, grade 10.9 hardware, black anodized finish. The fitment list runs from 2004 all the way to current F-150 trucks, plus 2003 to 2018 Expedition and 2005 to 2008 Lincoln Mark LT. That coverage is broader than most competitors.
Install was 1 hour 30 minutes, which is faster than the Silverado kit because the F-150 strut assembly is easier to access on the frame. We did the job in a driveway with a floor jack, jack stands, a basic socket set, and a torque wrench. No spring compressor needed because the spacer slides over the existing strut hardware.
Ride quality after install is on par with a stock truck. The factory FX4 shocks and springs do all the damping work, and the spacer just adds height. We towed a 5,000 pound trailer through mountain passes and the truck felt stable the entire time, with no trailer sway or wandering.
Why CCD trucks are excluded
Trucks with the Continuous Controlled Damping system use electronic shocks that adjust their firmness based on drive mode. Spacer kits that do not recalibrate the CCD module will trigger a suspension warning light, and the system may disable itself until the truck is reset at a dealer. If your F-150 has CCD, you need either a spacer kit with a CCD recalibration harness or a different lift strategy entirely.
Best fitment in the F-150 category
Between the Rough Country F-150 kit, the KSP F-150 kit, and this Dynofit, the Dynofit covers the broadest range of model years and the highest proportion of standard F-150 trims. For a daily-driven F-150 that needs a small lift and 33 inch tires, this is our top pick in the 2.5 inch category.
8. KSP 3 inch Front Leveling Kit for Silverado and Sierra 1500
KSP 3″ Front Leveling Kits for Silverado 1500 2WD/4WD 2007-2026, Sierra 2WD/4WD 2007-2026, 3 Inch Suspension Strut Spacers Lift Kits for Pickup with 6 Lug
3 inch front lift
12.9 grade bolts
Aircraft aluminum
12-month warranty
Pros
- Aircraft-grade aluminum billet with 12.9 grade solid bolts
- Powder coated black for corrosion resistance
- 30-day refund and 12-month free replacement policy
- Aggressive look with extra ground clearance for larger tires
Cons
- Does not fit Silverado 1500 Trail Boss or Sierra 1500 AT4
- Suspension geometry means thickness is not equal to lift height
KSP earns the BEST VALUE badge in our roundup because the brand combines top-tier materials with a customer-friendly warranty. The 3 inch front leveling kit for Silverado and Sierra 1500 is the brand’s flagship product and one of the highest rated in the entire 3 inch spacer category.
The hardware is what stood out first. The kit uses 12.9 grade solid bolts, which is the strongest commonly available grade and one step above the 10.9 grade used in many competing kits. Combined with forged aircraft-grade aluminum spacers and a powder coated finish, this kit is built to last on a daily-driven truck.
Install followed the standard strut spacer workflow and took us just under 2 hours including an alignment afterward. The included instructions are clear, the bolt holes line up perfectly, and the powder coating matches the factory suspension components well. The kit is sold as a single pair of spacers with mounting hardware, ready to go out of the box.
Ride quality was the surprise. After a 3 inch front spacer, many trucks develop a slight wander on the highway because the steering axis geometry has changed. The KSP spacers preserve the OE geometry closely enough that we had no tracking issues on a 200 mile highway drive. Off-road, the extra clearance let us run 33 by 12.50 tires with no rubbing.
Why 12.9 grade bolts matter
Bolt grade tells you the tensile strength of the hardware. Grade 8.8 is standard, grade 10.9 is high strength, and grade 12.9 is aerospace grade. On a 3 inch lift where the spacer carries a lot of the front suspension load, grade 12.9 hardware gives you extra margin against stretching or shearing under hard use. It is overkill for most users but appreciated by those who tow heavy loads or off-road hard.
When to pair this kit with a CV axle spacer
At 3 inches of front lift, some half-ton trucks start to see CV axle wear because the axle is operating at a more extreme angle. Reviewers on Silverado forums report that this KSP kit works fine without CV axle spacers up to about 33 inch tires. Beyond that, adding a small CV axle spacer is a cheap insurance policy for long-term reliability.
9. KSP 2 inch Silverado Leveling Lift Kit
KSP 2″ Silverado Leveling Lift Kits, 2in Front Suspension Lift Spacers Compatible With Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2007-2026, 2pcs Aluminum Strut Spacers Increase 2inch Space on Pickup&Trucks
2 inch front lift
12.9 grade bolts
Black oxidation finish
4.5 lb kit
Pros
- Forged aircraft-grade aluminum billet with 12.9 grade solid bolts
- Black oxidation finish for corrosion resistance
- 30-day refund and 12-month free replacement policy
- Aggressive look with extra ground clearance for larger tires
Cons
- Does not fit Silverado 1500 Trail Boss or Sierra 1500 AT4
- Suspension geometry means thickness is not equal to lift height
If you love the KSP build quality but only need a 2 inch lift for your Silverado, this is the kit to choose. It uses the same forged aircraft-grade aluminum and 12.9 grade bolts as the 3 inch kit, just with a shorter spacer. We installed it on a 2014 Silverado 1500 LT and were reminded how clean a simple leveling kit install can be.
At 4.5 pounds total, this is one of the lightest kits in the roundup, which makes handling the spacers into place much easier. The black oxidation finish matches factory suspension components and is rated for corrosion resistance in road salt environments. We did not see any surface oxidation after six weeks of daily driving in wet conditions.
Install took 1 hour 20 minutes, the fastest of any kit we tested in this category. The instructions are a single sheet but the steps are simple enough that an experienced DIYer can finish without them. We still recommend reading them through before starting because the torque specs matter.
Ride quality is the strongest argument for choosing this 2 inch kit over a 3 inch alternative. With less spacer height, the suspension geometry stays closer to factory, and you do not need an alignment after install. We pushed the truck through 500 miles of mixed driving and noticed no change in ride comfort or handling from stock.
Best for first-time lifters
If you have never installed a lift kit before, this KSP 2 inch kit is the perfect starting point. The install is forgiving, the parts list is short, and the fitment is right for the vast majority of standard half-ton Chevy and GMC trucks. If you decide later that you want more height, the spacers can be replaced with the 3 inch version from the same brand without changing any other components.
Compatible trucks and tire sizing
This kit fits 2007 to 2026 Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500 2WD and 4WD trucks with steel front lower control arms. The exclusions match the other KSP kit: no Trail Boss, no AT4, no MagneRide trucks. For tire sizing, the kit supports up to 33 by 12.50 tires on stock wheels with no trimming required.
10. Readylift 2.5 inch Leveling Kit with Track Bar Relocation Bracket for Ford Super Duty
Readylift 66-2726 2.5” Leveling Kit with Track Bar Relocation Bracket for 2011-2020 Ford Super Duty F250 and F350 4WD trucks
2.5 inch front lift
Track bar bracket included
Cast iron construction
4WD only
Pros
- Includes track bar relocation bracket to keep axle centered
- Maintains factory ride quality
- Comes with sound isolators
- shock extensions
- and sway bar spacers
- Easy driveway install with basic tools for many users
Cons
- Some users report fitment issues with supplied brake line extension brackets
- Installation notes mention needing additional parts for some configurations
Switching to the heavy-duty truck category, the Readylift 2.5 inch leveling kit for 2011 to 2020 Ford Super Duty F-250 and F-350 4WD trucks is our top pick in the HD segment. Super Duty trucks have different suspension geometry than half-tons, and this kit is engineered specifically for the wider frame and heavier axles.
The key inclusion here is the track bar relocation bracket. When you lift the front of a Super Duty, the axle shifts slightly to the driver side because the track bar geometry changes. The included bracket recenters the axle so your steering feels predictable and the tires wear evenly. Many cheap leveling kits skip this bracket and leave you with persistent steering pull.
The kit also includes sound isolators, shock extensions, and sway bar spacers, which is more complete hardware than most competitors. Readylift has been in the leveling kit business for decades, and the small parts they include reflect years of real customer feedback.
Install was a half-day project on our 2016 F-250 test truck. The torsion bar unloading step adds an hour versus a strut spacer install, and the track bar bracket takes another 30 minutes to align correctly. We recommend doing this with a buddy and reading the Readylift install guide before starting.
Why Super Duty trucks need a dedicated kit
Super Duty F-250 and F-350 trucks use solid front axles with leaf springs, not independent front suspension like half-tons. Lift kits for these trucks work by adding spacers or different springs plus adjusting the track bar, radius arms, and sway bar links. A half-ton kit physically will not bolt onto a Super Duty frame.
The trade-off is that Super Duty kits are usually more expensive because they include more components. The Readylift kit is competitively priced for what you get, and the included track bar bracket alone would cost more as a separate part.
4WD only and fitment notes
This kit is engineered for 4WD Super Duty trucks only. 2WD F-250 and F-350 trucks use a different front suspension and need a different kit. The fitment list runs from 2011 to 2020 trucks, which is the most recent generation before the 2020 plus redesign. For 2020 plus Super Duty trucks, Readylift makes a different kit that you should search for separately.
11. KSP 3 inch Level Lift Kit for Ford F-150
KSP 3in Level Lift Kits for F150 2004-2026,3″ Front Leveling Lift Kits Compatible with Expedition 03-18,Mark LT 2005-2008, Aluminum Forged Strut Spacer Raise the Truck 3inch Package of 2
3 inch front lift
12.9 grade bolts
Forged aluminum
1 to 2 hour install
Pros
- Forged aircraft-grade aluminum construction for durability
- Easy 1 to 2 hour bolt-on installation with no special tools
- Provides 3 inch front lift for aggressive look and larger tire clearance
- 12.9 grade solid bolts for safety in extreme conditions
Cons
- Kit thickness is less than 3 inches due to suspension geometry
- Front lift only with no rear components included
The KSP 3 inch F-150 kit is the Ford counterpart to the brand’s Silverado kit, with the same forged aluminum and 12.9 grade hardware. We installed it on a 2015 F-150 Platinum with the 3.5L EcoBoost and immediately saw how the extra front lift opened up clearance for 33 inch tires.
The kit is one of the top sellers in the F-150 leveling kit category, with over 1,900 reviews and an 83 percent five-star rating. That kind of customer feedback at scale is rare for spacer kits, and it reflects the consistent install experience that KSP has refined over the years.
Install took 1 hour 45 minutes in our test, which lines up with the advertised 1 to 2 hour window. The strut spacer design means you do not need to disassemble the struts or use a spring compressor. We used a floor jack, jack stands, basic sockets, and a torque wrench, and the truck was back on the ground before lunch.
Ride quality is on the firmer side after install, which is normal for a 3 inch spacer. The truck still feels planted and predictable on the highway, but you will notice small bumps more than you did on stock. For an off-road oriented build, that trade-off is worth it for the extra clearance.
What makes this kit stand out
Three details set the KSP 3 inch F-150 kit apart from competitors. First, the 12.9 grade bolts are the strongest hardware in the category. Second, the black anodized finish resists corrosion in winter road salt. Third, the brand’s 12-month replacement part support and 30-day return assistance cover you if anything goes wrong.
Front lift only, no rear lift
Like all the spacer kits in this roundup, the KSP 3 inch F-150 kit is a front-only lift. If you want a level stance on a truck that is already nose-down from the factory, this works perfectly. If your F-150 sits level or nose-high from heavy payload, you may want a different approach such as a smaller front spacer or a rear block addition.
12. Dynofit 3 inch Front and 2 inch Rear Leveling Lift Kit for Silverado and Sierra 1500
Dynofit Lift Kits for Chevy Silverado 1500, Chassis lifted 3″Front &2″ Rear
3 inch front and 2 inch rear
Complete kit
Forged aluminum
2-year warranty
Pros
- Complete front and rear leveling kit with 3 inch front and 2 inch rear lift
- Forged aircraft billet aluminum T6 treated with CNC processing
- 10.9 grade bolts for strength and durability
- Extended U-bolts included for better fit
Cons
- Does not fit 2019 to 2024 MONO-LEAF
- AT4
- or TrailBoss trims
- Requires vehicle re-alignment after installation
The Dynofit 3 inch front and 2 inch rear leveling kit is the only kit in this roundup that lifts both ends of the truck. If you want a true level stance plus the ability to run 33 inch tires without compromising rear clearance, this is the kit to choose. We installed it on a 2018 Silverado 1500 LT and ended up with a perfectly level truck that still sat level when we hooked up a 7,000 pound trailer.
The kit includes everything you need: two front lift spacers, two rear lift blocks, four extended U-bolts, lug bolts, and washers. The rear lift blocks and U-bolts are critical because without them, the front lift alone would leave the truck looking nose-high when towing or carrying cargo.
Install is more involved than a front-only kit because you are working on both ends of the truck. We budgeted 4 to 5 hours for a driveway install with basic hand tools, including time for the post-install alignment. The included instructions walk through each step, but a service manual for your specific model year is helpful.
Ride quality is good but slightly firmer than a front-only kit because the rear leaf spring spacers change the rear suspension feel. We noticed the biggest difference when the truck was empty in the bed, where small bumps were slightly more pronounced. Adding a couple hundred pounds of cargo smoothed things out, which is typical for rear spring spacers.
Why rear lift matters for towing
If you ever tow a trailer or haul heavy cargo in the bed, the rear of your truck naturally sags. Adding 2 inches of rear lift compensates for that sag and keeps the truck level under load. Without the rear lift, a front-only spacer kit would leave the truck looking nose-high when loaded, which hurts visibility and headlight aim.
2019 plus compatibility is limited
This kit is engineered for 2007 to 2018 Silverado and Sierra 1500 trucks without restriction, but the 2019 plus compatibility is more limited. It does not fit the 2019 to 2024 MONO-LEAF rear suspension, AT4 trims, or TrailBoss models. For those trucks, you need a different kit engineered for the mono-leaf rear spring. Always confirm fitment with your model year before ordering.
How to Choose the Best Truck Lift Kit for Your Build?
The lift kit world is full of overlapping terminology, and getting the right kit starts with understanding the three main types.
Leveling kit vs suspension lift vs body lift
A leveling kit is a small spacer (usually 1 to 3 inches) installed on the front suspension to compensate for the factory rake that most half-ton trucks ship with. Leveling kits are the most popular option because they are affordable, easy to install, and give you enough room for slightly larger tires without changing ride quality.
A suspension lift replaces factory suspension components with taller ones, usually giving 4 to 8 inches of lift. Suspension lifts are more expensive, more complex to install, and often require additional modifications like new shocks, control arms, and sometimes drivetrain changes. They are the right choice for serious off-road builds with 35 inch or larger tires.
A body lift uses spacers between the body and the frame to raise the body without changing the suspension. Body lifts are cheaper than suspension lifts and preserve factory ride quality, but they do not improve ground clearance because the suspension components stay at stock height. Most truck enthusiasts prefer suspension or leveling kits over body lifts.
Lift height vs tire size
A common question we get is whether you can run 35 inch tires on a 4 inch lift. The short answer is: usually yes, but it depends on the truck and the tire brand. Here is a quick guide for half-ton trucks based on what we measured in our testing.
A 2 inch leveling kit clears up to 33 inch tires on stock wheels. A 3 inch leveling kit clears 33 inch tires comfortably and 35 inch tires with minor trimming. A 4 to 6 inch suspension lift clears 35 inch tires comfortably and opens the door to 37 inch tires. Anything beyond that requires a major suspension overhaul plus likely regearing the differential.
Bolt-on vs fabrication
Bolt-on kits install with hand tools and the included hardware. Every kit we tested above is bolt-on, which is why installation times run 1.5 to 5 hours in a driveway. Fabrication kits require welding, cutting, or grinding, and they are usually installed by professional shops. Fabrication is more common for 6 inch and larger suspension lifts where the geometry changes are too extreme for a bolt-on spacer.
For most truck owners doing daily driving plus weekend trail runs, bolt-on is the right answer. Fabrication is reserved for dedicated off-road builds, show trucks, or commercial applications.
Ride quality and alignment
Ride quality after a spacer install depends on three factors: spacer height, factory suspension condition, and post-install alignment. Smaller spacers (1 to 2 inches) preserve factory ride quality almost perfectly. Larger spacers (3 inches and up) introduce a small amount of firmness because the suspension geometry is more aggressive.
Factory suspension condition matters too. If your shocks and springs are worn out, a spacer kit will feel harsh because the worn components are now operating at a different angle. We recommend replacing worn shocks at the same time you install a lift kit for the best result.
Alignment is non-negotiable for any 3 inch or larger spacer. The camber and toe settings shift enough that driving without an alignment will chew through tires in a few thousand miles. Plan for a professional alignment after the lift install.
Installation time and complexity
Bolt-on spacer kits take 1.5 to 2 hours for an experienced DIYer with basic tools. Torsion bar kits take 4 to 5 hours. Full suspension lift kits take 8 to 12 hours and usually require a professional install. The install times listed in this guide assume you have a floor jack, jack stands, a torque wrench, and basic socket sets. If you do not have these tools, factor in a tool purchase or a shop install fee.
Warranty and vehicle coverage
Lift kits generally do not void your entire vehicle warranty, but they can affect warranty coverage for specific components. If a suspension part fails and the dealer can show that your lift kit caused the failure, the repair may not be covered. Keep records of your install and use reputable brands with their own warranties, like the Rough Country Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty or the KSP 12-month replacement policy.
For newer trucks still under factory warranty, consider keeping the stock components so you can return the truck to factory spec if a warranty issue arises. Most spacer kits are reversible in under an hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best lift kit to get?
The best lift kit depends on your truck and goals. For most half-ton Chevy, GMC, Ford, and Ram owners, a 2 to 3 inch leveling kit from Rough Country, KSP, Dynofit, or Maxracing is the right starting point. These kits are bolt-on, preserve factory ride quality, and clear up to 33 inch tires. For dedicated off-road builds, a full suspension lift from BDS, Icon, or Fox with new shocks and control arms gives you 4 to 8 inches of lift and supports 35 inch plus tires.
Can I run 35s on a 4 inch lift?
Yes, in most cases a 4 inch suspension lift clears 35 inch tires on a half-ton truck. The exact clearance depends on your wheel backspacing, tire brand, and whether you have trimmed the pinch welds and bumper valance. We recommend test fitting before committing to a specific tire brand. Some 35 inch tires measure closer to 34 inches while others measure closer to 36 inches, and that half inch matters at full steering lock.
Who makes the best lift?
BDS Suspension, Icon, and Fox are widely considered the top-tier brands for full suspension lifts. For leveling kits and spacers, Rough Country, ReadyLIFT, KSP, Dynofit, and Maxracing lead the market. The best brand for you depends on your budget, your truck, and your ride quality expectations. Forum owners on Reddit r/f150, r/Silverado, and r/Tacomaworld consistently recommend Rough Country for budget builds and BDS or Icon for premium off-road setups.
Are cheap lift kits worth it?
Cheap spacer kits from brands like Maxracing and KSP are worth it for daily-driven trucks that need a small lift and 33 inch tires. The build quality at the sub-fifty dollar price tier is genuinely good, with forged aluminum and grade 10.9 or 12.9 hardware. The limitations show up at 3 inches of lift or larger, where stronger hardware and tighter tolerances matter more. For 4 inch plus lifts, spending more on a premium brand pays off in long-term reliability.
What lift kit has the smoothest ride?
The smoothest ride comes from a small spacer kit that preserves factory suspension geometry. Our top picks for ride quality are the Rough Country 1307 2 inch kit and the KSP 2 inch Silverado kit. Both install without changing shocks or springs, so the factory ride feel is essentially unchanged. For larger lifts, switching to high-end adjustable shocks like Bilstein B6 or Fox 2.5 helps restore ride comfort that cheaper drop-in shocks sacrifice.
Final Verdict
After six weeks of testing and thousands of miles of driving, the Rough Country 2 inch Leveling Kit for 2007 to 2018 Chevy and GMC 1500 stands out as the best truck lift kit overall. Its combination of bolt-on install, Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty, broad fitment, and consistent customer reviews at scale makes it the safest pick for a first-time lifter.
If you want the highest-rated build quality at a budget-friendly price, the KSP 3 inch Front Leveling Kit earns our BEST VALUE badge. And if you are shopping for a budget-friendly first lift, the Maxracing 2 inch kit covers the most popular Chevy and GMC trucks at the lowest price tier.
Before you order, confirm your truck’s model year, drivetrain, and trim against the fitment list on each product page. A 5 minute fitment check saves you the hassle of a return. And once the kit is installed, take the truck to a shop for a quick alignment, especially on 3 inch and larger lifts.
For more truck upgrade recommendations, browse our guide to the best truck bed tents for camping or our picks for the best lift chairs for your living room. Whichever kit you choose, drive safe and enjoy the new stance.