Chevrolet Lift/Leveling Kits

[Capt. H (Ret.)]

I have a 2011 Chev. 1/2 ton FWD crew cab that I would like to lift the front end to the same height as the rear of the truck. This will be approximately 2-2 1/2 inches. The truck has 18" wheels on it and I do not intend to put bigger wheels on it. I would like to know if this will effect the ride and if there will be any issues with warranty once the Chevrolet dealer sees it. Should I expect any alignment or tire wear issues??? I am assuming I will have to adjust the headlights down. I pull an 18 foot boat and was wondering about issues with that. I have checked at a truck specialty shop and they are recommending ReadyLift brand.

Thank you for your thought and comments.

Mike

[BartmanMN]

My neighbor has it on his newer Chevy. He did not do anything with the headlights, but I believe he did get an alignment. Factory rims and tires look a little strange with the front lifted, looks much better with a larger after market tire/rim. My opinion.

[Powerstroke]

FWD means front wheel drive. Just an FYI.

There are many brands out there for a leveling kit. Your truck will go up about 2" in front. Any place that will install it for you should take care of the alignment.

The most basic kits will simply add a spacer to the top of the coil or strut. Since this is added to the top of the strut it will not change the suspension in any way. The weight distribution of your truck did change a little when you lifted the front end but you shouldn't notice any change and there will not be any adverse wear to your tires or suspension.

There may be an issue with your warranty only because dealers like to point to anything, however unrelated, when blaming something as a reason to deny warranty work. Its best to ask your dealer. There are many dealers that have no issue with aftermarket accessories. Technically the law saws they have to prove the accessory caused a problem, but most people don't know it or aren't willing to fight it.

As far as towing your boat, it may make your truck tow "nose high" instead of towing level since you have changed the weight distribution. The most important thing you can do is make sure you're using the right size hitch height for proper weight distribution of the tongue weight.