Well, I thought I had done my homework but...

I mistakenly thought I had bought a 2005 Dakota, however it is actually a 2004 model. I have purchased a 2 inch leveling kit for the Dodge Dakota 2005 and there must be slight difference between the 2 year models. Everything seems to bolt up fine until you get to the Upper control arm, I can't seem to lift it high enough to get the nut back on the bolt to secure it.

Someone with more experience please clue me in as to what I can do... Can the 2004 model be leveled? If so, with what type of modification? I have looked around on some sites like Tuff country and don't see any options for a 2004 model.

Any and all help appreciated,

 

If it's 4wd, the easiest way to level it is to crank the torsion bars. You can get up to 2" out of them. However it can lead to ball joints wearing up quicker and a harsher ride. Although I can't vouch for how they ride since mine aren't cranked.

 

In my haste to post last night I failed to mention that the truck is a 2WD... I'm just trying to level the truck and go to a slightly larger tire. I feel like my balloon has been popped now that I can't get this kit to work.

 

Well 2005 was totally overhauled so who knows what is different from the 04. I know for the 4wd guys for some reason the 04 is the hardest to find a lift for not sure why but might be the same with 2wd. A picture or better description would help out more

 

Yeah a 4wd is completely different. 2wd you have springs instead of torsion bars so I'm guess springs are the only way to leave it out.

 

Hey guys, thanks for all the replies... Okay, I did a lot of talking with various folks today to get the answers I needed on this topic. After speaking with some Dodge factory mechanics and a couple of businesses that do lift kits I found that I can do the leveling kit on my 2004 Dodge Dakota.

Here's the run down as I know it: My truck has a manufacture date of 08 of 2004. The suspension is the same as the 2005 model according to everyone I have spoken with, same upper and lower A arms, sway bar, and struts. I ordered a Tuff Country kit Part number 32902 for the Dodge Dakota 2005 and it fits perfectly. It was a pretty easy job once I figured out that I needed a second set of hands to help pry the upper A arm down to reconnect it to the knuckle. I did the whole thing in about an hour and a half. Probably could have done it faster but I was working on the ground...Ughhhhh!

When I get mynew tires on and have it aligned I will take some photos to post. I looks pretty dang good even with the crappy tires on it.

Again, thanks for all the comments.

 

Hey what's up I have a 2004 dodge Dakota 4x4 4.7l v8 and I'm looking to purchase a lift kit. What would you guys recommend for something that isnt going to cost too much money?

 

Not sure how high you want to lift the vehicle, but RockAuto.com offers a variety of lift kits and accessories for doing just that. I would lift 2" inches in the front with a leveling kit, and a block lift in the rear.

Good Luck!