Leveling Kits Explained: The Best Upgrade for Bigger Tires and Better Stance

By Manuel Crespo

Thinking About Upgrading Your Truck with a Leveling Kit?

If you want better stance, clearance, and ride quality, upgrading to a truck leveling kit is one of the smartest moves you can make. Factory suspension is designed with a forward rake for towing, but that doesn’t always perform or look the way truck owners want. Installing a leveling kit evens out your stance, increases ground clearance, and allows you to fit larger off-road tires for a tougher look and more capability both on and off the pavement.

2023 RAM TRX - Vossen HFX-1 Wheels Pre-Mounted on Mickey Thompson Baja Boss Tires - Legends Auto Parts

 

What Is a Leveling Kit?

A leveling kit raises the front of your truck to match the rear. From the factory, most pickups sit lower in the front, which can limit tire clearance and give an unbalanced appearance. Leveling kits correct that stance while improving approach angles for off-road driving.

Unlike full lift kits, leveling kits are affordable, maintain close-to-stock ride quality, and are easy to install. Depending on your truck, kits may use coil spring spacers, torsion keys, or strut extensions to get the job done.

Why Upgrading to a Leveling Kit Matters

  • Factory trucks are raked forward for towing not everyday looks or off-road use

  • Larger wheels and tires often rub without additional clearance

  • Off-road driving requires better approach angles and suspension balance

  • Heavy-duty use can cause front suspension sag over time

  • A leveled stance improves both truck performance and appearance

For light-duty trucks like the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado 1500, and Ram 1500, a dual leveling kit setup improves ride comfort and tire clearance. Heavy-duty trucks like the Ford Super Duty, Silverado HD, and Ram HD see even bigger benefits, especially when running oversized off-road tires or towing.


Why OEM Suspension Isn’t Enough

Factory suspension systems are tuned for stock tires and basic driving. They aren’t designed to handle oversized wheels, off-road performance demands, or aggressive stances. That’s why many enthusiasts upgrade with aftermarket leveling kits.

A quality kit provides better clearance, reduces tire rubbing, and gives your truck a bolder, more capable look.

FOUTZ 2021-2025 Ford Raptor Leveling Kit - Legends Auto Parts

How a Leveling Kit Improves Ride & Performance

Most aftermarket leveling kits are simple, bolt-on upgrades you can install with basic tools. Whether you choose a heavy-duty coil spacer, torsion key upgrade, or strut extension, the results are immediate: more clearance, improved stance, and room for all-terrain or mud-terrain tires.

Key Benefits of Leveling Kits

  • Raises the front for a balanced stance

  • Provides clearance for larger off-road tires

  • Improves approach angles for off-road driving

  • Reduces front tire rubbing on turns

  • Cost-effective compared to a full suspension lift

  • Bolt-on installation with minimal downtime


When a Leveling Kit Is the Best Upgrade

  • You want to install bigger wheels and tires

  • You’re looking for a tougher, more aggressive stance

  • You tow occasionally but don’t need a permanent rake

  • You off-road and need extra clearance for obstacles

  • You want an affordable suspension upgrade without the cost of a lift kit


Is a Leveling Kit Right for Your Truck?

If you want to balance your stance, improve ground clearance, and run larger tires, a truck leveling kit is one of the best upgrades you can make. It’s affordable, easy to install, and instantly enhances both performance and style. Whether you’re daily driving, towing, or heading off-road, a leveling kit suspension upgrade gives you the confidence and capability your truck deserves.

 If you’re ready for a more aggressive look and smoother ride, it’s time to install a leveling kit and unlock your truck’s full potential and you can make the change with products we provide HERE:

2023+ FORD F-250 & F-350 3.5" Premium Leveling System HERE

Wicked Trucks - 2017-2019 FORD F-250 Reverse Leveling System HERE

2011-2024 Chevrolet/GMC 2500/3500 Cognito 3 Inch Standard Leveling Kit HERE

2014-2018 RAM 2500/3500 WICKED Leveling Kit HERE

2009-2024 RAM 1500 4WD WICKED 3" Leveling Kit HERE

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