I am thinking about putting a 2.5" leveling kit on my 2006 SCSB RAM. I have a couple of questions. I do not plan on increasing tire size or going off road. I just think I would prefer to see the truck level.
1. Will I have to replace the stock front shocks to compensate for the extra height?

2.A front end alignment will be required, right?

Thanks for you answers/opinions.

 

to go 2.5" you may need new shocks. Alignment for sure. I raised mine 1 - 1.5" in the front and didn't need new shocks, but there's not a lot of play left in them, either.

 

I put in 2" spacers to level my front end and ended up needing a set of longer shocks.

 

1.) Depends on how you level it. If you use a 2" longer spring or a spring spacer, you will need either longer shocks, or shock extenders. If you use a 3" spindle lift, longer shocks would actually cause the top A arm to hit the coil bucket, so stock length shocks must be used. (~3" is required to be level. 2" spring spacers actually provide ~3" of lift)

2.) Yes, no matter how you do it.

**edit:
This only applies to a 4x2. If you have a 4x4, you have coilovers (struts), and would need to look into either Bilstein leveling shocks or strut extenders.

 

Thanks for the replies. One more question...

Are shock extenders safe to use or do they create a weak point?

Bob

 

They're safe. The shocks limit suspension travel, but they aren't load bearing.

 

Sorry to ask so many questions but....
Does using the spring spacers have an adverse effect on handling or tire wear? I do NOT want to cause problems just for the look.

 

As long as you have an alignment done it won't change anything.

 

Tire wear, no, as long as you get a proper alignment done.

Handling is more subjective. A spacer compresses or "preloads" the spring, causing the ride to be considerably more rough or bouncy. A lengthened spring rides somewhat better, but is more expensive. My recommendation for everyone with a 4x2 is to use the lift spindles. They don't change the geometry of the suspension, so handling is exactly as stock.

 

Found some .
Thanks!!!
Bob