So, I just bought a Ford F150 xlt v8 4.6l 2 wheel drive about a month ago. It's all stock and I want to change it up to add some appearance. To start off I just want to level the front end of the truck the rear end. I've been told to "Crank the factory key's" get a 2" lift kit... etc.. I like the idea of cranking the factory keys, but is it going to add unnecessary wear and tear? Thanks for the help.

 

You have a 2wd truck and will not have Keys, The easiest way to raise your front end would be coils and longer shocks or a coil spacer at the top and longer shock.

 

What would be the best and cheapest way while still doing it right?

 

If it was my truck I would install new coils and shocks. These are some examples. 97-03 are all the same parts.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Fabtech-F-150-Extra-Cab-2-lift-coils-97-03-2wd-/390326961975?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item5ae14cc737&vxp=mtr
http://www.ebay.com/itm/F150-97-DOETSCH-TECH-NITRO-GAS-LONG-TRAVEL-SHOCK-KIT-FRONT-LIFT-2-3-2WD-4X2-/321502979774?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item4adb1226be&vxp=mtr

 

Or you could lower the back to level it out. Just sayen.

 

I said the same thing in another thread...LOL

 

How about new lifted 2 or 3" spindles to get the added height in the front? Seen a few 2wd models do that but not real clear on what else it would need.

 

The spindles are usually 3 inch and cost more. If you went spindle you could raise the rear with a lift shackle to get it level or a add-a-leaf. If you found a 2 inch spindle all you would really need is an alignment when they are installed.

 

Cheapest would a 2" spacer, next would be 2" lift coils, then spindles.

Longer shocks aren't completely necessary for that small of a change but they wouldn't hurt.

Spindles will use stock length shocks as they don't change the angles any. However spindles don't come smaller than 3" and you'll pay more for the 3" ones than the 3.5" ones. Also spindles will make your front track width 1.25-1.5" wider per side depending on the brand used.

Don't forget you'll need an alignment, and if your ball joints and tie rod ends are worn it's the perfect time to replace them as you'll already have the front end partially torn down and you'll be getting an alignment anyways.