As many know, the Dakota is rides with the front end low. Adding any options, such as a brush guard and winch, makes it even lower. What options do I have for bringing the front end up so it doesn't look like I can swivel the truck on it's front tires?

I know I need front shocks/struts replaced, but I think there should be something there that would work better for the long term.

Thoughts and ideas?

No, taking the brush guard and winch off is not an option.

 

How does adding a brush guard lower it??

 

Oh the weight makes it sag. I thought it was some idiot saying a brush guard is like a lowering kit or something.

 

Yeah.

 

Picture of truck as it stands now.

So, why would the leveling kits only say they are good for 4x2 only? What would happen to the front axles when the leveling kit is installed?

I've only found one place that would even install them, or make reference to them.

 

Most of them say for 4x2 only, because leveling kits arent the best idea when it comes to a 4x4. The companies don't want you to destroy your CV joints. When the leveling kit spacer displaces the strut lower on the frame mount, that allows the CV joints to sit at an angle, and then on top of it, once the suspension is under full flex, the CV joint is angled beyond spec.

Thats why most leveling kits say 4x2 only.

Also, the upper control arm on these trucks arent long enough to handle the 2" leveling kit as well, under full articulation, the control arm will swing into the spring on the strut, and rest there, making its upper ball joint the suspension limiter.

Here is a link to a DIY thread on installing a leveling kit:

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/3rd-gen...stall-diy.html

The member that made it has since sold his truck, so he wont be putting and adding anything anytime soon lol. You will see that he has some pictures after the kit is installed, and the CV joint angles under full flex.

I personally have installed a few leveling kits, and the above issues are pretty much the same on the Ram, Dakota, and F-150. So I am sure all IFS share the same issues.

Alot of us have leveling kits though, and no one has reported any problems at all. We have quite a few 4x4 memebers who have Daystar and Trailmaster leveling kits, some members go offroading with the kits installed too.

 

I'm running a leveling kit (above strut) on my 4x4 with no issues. Love the way it looks/rides/handles. No downside for me, but truck is used on road only, no clue of reliability used off road. FWIW