I just purchased the 2" AS front level kit, it arrived today, I'm stoked. The only problem I have is that when it comes to turning wrenches, I'm not what you would call good.... I could mess up a tire change. I think it's just bad luck, but in any event, I obviously bought this kit with the full intention of getting it installed, which will make my new tires (BFG 285/70/17 AT KO's) look all that much better. Has anyone had a local shop (preferably one with nationwide locations) install their kit, or is this kit so easy a caveman could do it? Help.......

 

If you can't change a tire, don't attempt to install this yourself. My suggestion is to get somebody that has some mechanic sense to help you, that way you can start to learn how to save yourself some money.

 

I'm not really all that bad at turning wrenches, it's mostly that I have some apprehensions about messing with my suspension. I would really just feel better having a pro do it, but I don’t want to go to an ORW type place where they charge $400 to put on a $89 part.

BTW, I can change a tire just fine….

 

Sorry, didn't mean to insult you. Installing the spacer is really not difficult, you will need to have the appropriate tools though. I highly reccomend an impact for the lower strut assembly bolt. Other tools you will need include a 15mm wrench and deep socket, 30mm socket, 1-1/16" wrench, 17,18,& 21mm deep sockets, 11/16" wrench, floor jack, jack stand, 2lb hammer and a torque wrench.

 

Not a problem, although I do appreciate the apology, it takes more than an online forum to insult me.

So, say one didn’t own an impact wrench, would one still be able to perform the task at hand, just with more difficulties? Perhaps some WD40 and a steel bar for added muscle on the wrench would loosen the nuts?

My neighbor is a BMW master mechanic, but the problem, is that I have a ford, not a BMW, and he’s afraid that if he helps me, and something gets jacked up, I’ll be mad at him. Not the case, but I’m not about to pressure my friend. I could try doing it myself, after all, it did come with instructions. However if anyone has pictures of this process, it would be of great assistance. I’m a much better visual learner than reading learner. Kind of a monkey see, monkey do situation you know?

 

There is always a possibility of something going wrong when modifying a suspension, however unlikely with a leveling kit. A mechanic is a mechanic no matter what they specialize in, and couldn't hurt to have him around. The lower strut bolt is torqued at 120ft. lbs., you should be able to muscle it off by hand. I suggest that you read the instructions thouroghly, and keep them close while installing the kit for reference. I'm assuming your kit is a spacer that fits on top of the strut assembly and does not require compressing the spring. Once it is installed, take your truck to get alligned, your tires will be towed in and will need to be adjusted so your suspension can relax. Driving too long without an alligment will cause severe tire wear. Also, it is important that you only work on one side at a time. As far as photos of the install, you could try google.

 

since you are here in CA, i would recommend JBM Sport Truck. They are fair priced and are very reputable. Call, make a appoinment and you can get your truck back same day if you roll up in the morning.

 

I like you was aprehensive about doing it myself since I had never done anything like it before. I looked around but couldn't find anyone to tackle it so I gave it a whirl myself and it really was as easy as they say. My only recommendation is that you have a helper. Not that you really need it but it seemed to make things a bit easier. I did not need an impact wrench and I rented the torque wrench and the 30mm socket at Autozone and they credit you the money back when you return the tools.

There is a thread on here somewhere that I used and it had pictures that will help with the install if you are a visual learner.

 

I snapped my extension in half trying to break that bolt loose, and had to have an impact gun, that bolt is really a pain. After that the rest was easy. Yours may not be that tight though, you could always start with it and see if you can get it off without an impact (Do both 30mm bolts first, just to break them loose) and if you can't, find a friend with an impact gun and air. That's what I did. Good luck to ya.

 

https://www.f150online.com/forums/sh...d.php?t=225877 This link as the install instructions and pictures to help you.

 

Yes, the above link is your BIBLE!!! Awesome write-up and left no room for questions.

As Zig mentioned - a buddy assisting is the key. I couldn't imagine pulling down on the lower control arm, lining up the upper ball joint and securing it all by myself.

My impact wrench couldn't break the lower strut bolt, so I had to put some muscle and a 24" breaker bar to work. After the initial "crack" of the nut, I went back to the impact. Everything else was impact-friendly