2nd Gen Dakota Tech 1997 - 2004 Dodge Dakota Tech - The ultimate forum for technical help on the 2nd Gen Dakota.

Difference between lift and level?

Old Mar 14, 2013 | 02:23 PM
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Default Difference between lift and level?

If I was trying to lift a 98 dakota 2wd what is the difference between a 3 inch level and a 3 inch kit? I know a kit has springs and control arms but is that needed? What can the kit do that a 3 inch spacer can not do?

Thanks
 
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Old Mar 14, 2013 | 02:47 PM
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Naturally trucks are a little lower in the front than in the rear. Leveling kits normally include hardware for the front ie coil spacers for your 2wd but leave the rear alone. A lift would change both front and rear.

Is the 3 inch kit you're referring to perhaps a body lift? If so this just lifts the cab and bed off the frame. Looks bigger and allows for bigger tires but doesn't affect the suspension at all.

On a 4wd dak you can just crank the torsion bars and this will level the front with the rear.
 
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Old Mar 14, 2013 | 03:08 PM
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I think I stated the question wrong. What I am trying to say is, is a full kit needed or can I just get a 3 inch level with new shocks then add a leaf in the rear?
 
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Old Mar 15, 2013 | 08:32 AM
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Do I need new control arms with a 3 inch lift?
 
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Old Mar 17, 2013 | 11:19 PM
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you may want to get new upper arms as the alignment will be a hassle for anyone to do and the ball joints will be too steep
 
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