is this thread like noob central?

the reason you dont see many people leveled with 35's (4x4) or 33's (2x4) is most people usually ended up with new rims which wont allow those sizes, and we have alot of older people who dont want a large tire on to begin with, they just want a more leveled stance.

louisiana lariat, one problem with your theory on measure twice, install once is sometimes you net more than the 2" or 2 1/2" which you bought. i have heard many people getting up to 3" with the 2 1/2's. its a good start to get close, but dont be disapointed if you do end up a little nose high or ended up a little low. different trucks will vary depending on many factors.

 

The only way to know for sure would be to measure you truck. That will tell you how much difference there is between the front and the rear. For the record, a good rule of thumb is that the 2004-05 trucks sit level with the 2.5" kit and the 2006-2008 trucks sit level with the 2" kit. The earlier trucks came with a slightly larger rake from the factory, so that is why they need the extra 1/2" to sit level.

Being as the spacer is installed between the coilover mount and the frame of the truck, ride qaulity is not affected. Spacers that install to the spring itself are the ones that will affect ride qaulity.

Leveling spacers do put the front end parts at higher angles, causing extra wear. If this is a big concern for you, look into the Bilstein leveling struts. They level the truck without using a spacer, therefor keeping the suspension angles lower. Disadvantage is cost. An Autospring kit is $69. Bilsteins are around $400 for all four struts and shocks.

As far as tires go, look into the BFGoodrich All Terrain in a 285/55R20. They will fit a leveled truck with stock 20s nicely.

 

explain?

whats the difference between going 2" with a spacer and going 2" with bilsteins? nothing. they will both do the exact same thing to your front suspension and give the exact same angles (assuming their both exactly 2"). only way to prevent "bad" angles is a subframe to drop the whole front suspension down farther.

 

You are right. I've heard that too. KR-Texas is a good example. Thats why I said you can always install a block or an aal.

 

Sorry for the confusion, I was comparing a 2.5" spacer to the Bilsteins set at 2".

You are correct. Both the spacers and the leveling struts will increase CV axle and balljoint angles.

Basicly, if you need shocks, the Bilsteins are a great option to serve both purposes. I will most likely end up replacing my shocks with the Bilsteins and removing the AS spacer I currently have installed.

 

^Do you have the stock shocks now?

 

Yes. Stock shocks with the Autospring 2.5" spacer kit. Truck is a 2005 with 63,000 miles. Well over due for shock replacement.

Video of a few different angles of the truck with 35x12.50R18 BFGoodrich Mud Terrain KM2s.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_m1Lazc4YcA

 

That looks good, I really like your truck. I am thinking of going with the Bilsteins and 35inch KM2's. Mine is a 2004 wit 52,000 miles and my shocks are overdue as well.

 

It is a great setup. Best way to go for the money if you ask me. And the KM2s are awesome. I will be posting a 20,000 mile report in about 2 weeks or so.

 

Guys,
Just installed my 2.5" Hellbent leveling kit and I'm sitting .5" higher in front! Im not liking the stance too much.....will it settle back down a bit or no? Thx

 

Will what settle down, the 2.5" block of steel you just installed on your truck?

AAL will solve your issues.