Modifying truck height
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Joined: Sep 2006
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Modifying truck height
Hi guys,
I will be in the market for a used truck in a few months and I want to research how height modifications will impact the truck as messing with heights and/or suspension geometry is out of my realm of knowledge.
I was originally looking at 1998-2001 models but due to a higher rate of failures with transmissions and differentials than I would like, I may spend a little more and get a 5.7L Hemi 1500 from 2004-2008 probably a quad cab or extended cab, 4x4 since the 3rd gens seem to have less frequent problems.
Could you guys explain to me what is the best route to do a slight lift on a truck which has the least negative impacts (from a leveling kit - 4" lift max)? (i.e. - is payload capacity affected, towing affected, suspension wear, ride quality, etc. in general or specifically on these trucks.
Main use of the truck will be not a daily driver, used for hauling stuff (no plans on towing at the moment), 4x4 for adverse weather and maybe minor off roading. Not doing anything crazy with it mod wise, maybe exhaust, intake, and a tune for performance in addition to a possible height alteration for tires, although I believe 33" tires fit from the factory. I don't think I'd need 35's, definitely nothing over that.
I will be in the market for a used truck in a few months and I want to research how height modifications will impact the truck as messing with heights and/or suspension geometry is out of my realm of knowledge.
I was originally looking at 1998-2001 models but due to a higher rate of failures with transmissions and differentials than I would like, I may spend a little more and get a 5.7L Hemi 1500 from 2004-2008 probably a quad cab or extended cab, 4x4 since the 3rd gens seem to have less frequent problems.
Could you guys explain to me what is the best route to do a slight lift on a truck which has the least negative impacts (from a leveling kit - 4" lift max)? (i.e. - is payload capacity affected, towing affected, suspension wear, ride quality, etc. in general or specifically on these trucks.
Main use of the truck will be not a daily driver, used for hauling stuff (no plans on towing at the moment), 4x4 for adverse weather and maybe minor off roading. Not doing anything crazy with it mod wise, maybe exhaust, intake, and a tune for performance in addition to a possible height alteration for tires, although I believe 33" tires fit from the factory. I don't think I'd need 35's, definitely nothing over that.
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Joined: Jan 2008
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Will move you to the correct spot.
For future reference:
https://dodgeforum.com/forum/dodge-r...ead-first.html
For future reference:
https://dodgeforum.com/forum/dodge-r...ead-first.html
Registered User
Joined: Feb 2014
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I think you've made a wise choice.........a car-truck that literally "brings home the mail". Considering you're in the 2nd gen section, guess I'll just pass you on to the experts for the answer to your question.
Last edited by sumone; Feb 26, 2014 at 07:39 PM. Reason: '
I don't know much about those years except they have an independent front suspension and my buddies 05 4x4 driver side wheel assembly fell off going down the highway.
Those hemis are powerful though. Way more powerful then a stock 360
Those hemis are powerful though. Way more powerful then a stock 360
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 487
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From: Evans City, PA
I think skyjacker might make some 2" lift coil springs for the front and then I'd use add-a-leafs to lift the rear...Get some good shocks on there and you should be good to go. Anything under 3" of lift and you won't need to worry about changing control arms or steering components...although you might experience an increased rate of wear on those items. And don't be scared away by 2nd gen rams!! Even the 04-08 have their issues (I have an 01 1500, my dad has an 04 1500 with the hemi)...the hemis are beast motors tho, wish my 01 had one in it.