How To Lift A Truck

What Tools Are Needed To Lift A Truck?

First thing’s first, here are the tools you’ll need to install a lift kit:

• Vehicle jacks and jack stands
• Screwdriver
• Torque wrench
• Socket wrench
• Lug wrench

You would also do well to keep a pry bar and a hammer handy, in the event that you run into old parts that are more difficult to remove from your truck. Additionally, having WD-40 or another type of penetrating oil available to loosen tight joints won’t hurt, either. Finally, a few extra nuts and bolts might serve you well, too. Keep in mind – this is only the bare minimum of what’s needed to lift a truck. If you happen to have access to a full repair shop, it would be smart to take advantage.

If you haven’t purchased your lift kit yet or if you have and you still need some of the parts listed above, consult with the Leson Chevrolet parts department. You can even place an order online for your ultimate convenience.

How Do I Lift My Truck At Home? A Step-By-Step Guide

Before getting started, it’s important to note than there is really no set of online instructions that can be considered a viable substitute for the instruction manual included in your lift kit. The steps we’ll detail below are meant to show Metairie drivers a general overview of what they can expect from the lifting process so you can determine whether you should opt for professional installation.

1. Remove the negative battery cable.
2. Loosen the lug nuts so the tires are easier to remove when your truck is off the ground.
3. Use your jack and jack stands to raise the vehicle. The process will take a while, so you’ll want to make sure that the vehicle’s center of gravity is right where it should be.
4. Remove the wheels and tires and set them aside.
5. Remove the old U-bolts, along with your vehicle’s current shocks and springs.
6. Attach the new bolts and, while assembling any parts according to the instructions that came with your kit, attach the new shocks and suspension.
7. Use your torque wrench to make sure that all pieces and bolts are tightened according to the proper specifications.
8. Attach your old tires, or attach a set of bigger tires that you’ve purchased for your vehicle.
9. Lower your vehicle carefully, going little by little, and keeping it as level as possible as it inches towards the ground.

Depending on the scale of your planned modifications, it may also be necessary to install a new transfer case, a longer driveshaft, or other additional components.

At this point, your lift kit should be officially installed! We’re sure you’re eager to hit the trails near Gretna, but before you do, it’s smart to schedule an appointment at your local certified service center to have your truck inspected. This will simply ensure that everything was properly installed and your truck is safe to head out on rugged, rocky trails.

Should I Lift My Truck At Home?

Even if you’re a DIY veteran, lifting a truck can be a difficult project to take on, requiring many tools and plenty of patience. While it may be tempting to forego the costs of labor that come with professional installation and install your lift kit on your own, you should not do so if you don’t have the proper parts and tools readily available. In fact, if you don’t already have all of the right equipment, it may be cheaper to pay for professional installation than it would be to acquire everything that’s necessary.

Leson Chevrolet Can Lift Your Truck

If the answer to “How do I lift my truck?” has left you feeling a bit overwhelmed, Leson Chevrolet is always here to help! Our certified factory-trained technicians have the skills and experience to lift your truck and get you ready for adventures off the beaten path. If you have any lingering questions before taking the next steps, don’t hesitate to contact us or check out our additional service tips online.