Ram body lift kit

If you’re wondering about a Ram body lift kit for your truck, here’s the real talk: while body lift kits exist, for most modern Ram trucks, they often create more problems than they solve and aren’t generally the best choice for achieving the look or performance you’re probably after. Think of it this way – if you want a true upgrade that genuinely improves your truck’s capability and stance, you’ll almost always be happier investing in a quality Ram Suspension Lift Kit instead. I’ve seen too many people go down the body lift route for their Ram, only to regret the aesthetic compromises, potential mechanical headaches, and the fact that they don’t actually get the ground clearance they expected. This isn’t about calling a product a “scam” outright, but rather about being realistic that a body lift simply isn’t designed to deliver the robust, integrated benefits that most Ram owners want.

When you’re looking to elevate your Ram, whether it’s a Ram 1500 or a Ram 2500, you’re likely aiming for that aggressive stance, room for bigger tires, or improved off-road capability. A body lift might seem like a budget-friendly way to get a few extra inches, but it comes with a whole host of drawbacks. For example, you might end up with an awkward gap between your truck’s body and frame, or even worse, stretched wiring and steering components that can lead to electrical issues or safety concerns. Instead, focusing on a well-engineered truck suspension lift kit from reputable brands like ReadyLift, Skyjacker, Rancho, Rough Country, BDS, Superlift, Icon, or Fox will give you a much more reliable, functional, and visually appealing result. These kits are designed to work with your truck’s engineering, not just around it, ensuring a better driving experience and long-term satisfaction.

Understanding the Difference: Body Lift vs. Suspension Lift

When you hear “lift kit,” most people immediately think of a taller, more capable truck. But there are two main ways to achieve that height: a body lift or a suspension lift. Knowing the difference is crucial, especially for your Ram.

What is a Body Lift Kit?

Alright, let’s talk about what a body lift actually is. Basically, a body lift kit uses spacers, often made of plastic or urethane, that go between your truck’s body and its frame. The idea is pretty simple: you unbolt the body from the frame, put these spacers in, and then bolt it all back together with longer bolts. This literally lifts the cab and bed up off the chassis. These kits usually give you about 1 to 3 inches of lift, which can be enough to clear slightly larger tires.

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Why it’s often a misstep for Ram trucks:
Here’s where things get tricky, especially for modern Rams. While a body lift can get you a little height for bigger tires, it doesn’t actually raise the frame or your truck’s axles. This means your ground clearance – the distance between the lowest part of your vehicle and the ground – doesn’t change unless you put on larger tires. So, if you’re hitting trails, your differential and chassis are still at the same height, ready to snag on obstacles.

Beyond that, body lifts can create some pretty noticeable aesthetic issues. You’ll often end up with a visible gap between your truck’s body and the frame, which can look pretty awkward. And your bumpers, which are usually attached to the frame, won’t lift with the body, creating another weird gap unless you install bumper relocation brackets, which is an added cost and complexity.

Then there are the mechanical problems. Modern Rams are packed with wiring harnesses, brake lines, fuel lines, and steering components that run between the body and the frame. When you lift the body, these components get stretched beyond their factory design. This stretching can lead to all sorts of headaches: electrical issues, steering problems like a damaged clockspring, which one owner reported costing them a lot of money and effort to fix, and even potential safety hazards if vital lines are compromised. Shops often recommend staying away from them for newer trucks for these very reasons. Memory Lift Research Reviews: The Truth About Boosting Your Brainpower

What is a Suspension Lift Kit?

Now, a suspension lift is a completely different beast, and it’s generally the recommended alternative for most Ram owners. Instead of just lifting the body, a Ram suspension lift kit works by replacing or modifying parts of your truck’s actual suspension system. This usually involves new shocks, springs, control arms, and sometimes other components like steering knuckles or crossmembers. When you do a suspension lift, you’re raising the entire chassis of your truck – the frame, the body, and everything in between – away from the ground and the axles.

This is the key difference: a suspension lift does increase your ground clearance, which is super important for off-roading, clearing obstacles, and getting over uneven terrain. It also allows you to fit significantly larger tires, further boosting that clearance. You can find a wide range of suspension lift kits for various Ram models, from a modest 2-inch lift perfect for slightly larger tires to a more dramatic 6-inch or even 8-inch lift for serious off-road adventures.

Brands like ReadyLift, Skyjacker, Rancho, Rough Country, BDS, Superlift, Icon, and Fox are well-regarded in the industry for their quality and comprehensive kits. For example, a Rough Country 6-inch Lift Kit with Vertex Shocks for a Ram 1500 can give you excellent performance and a bold look. Many of these kits are engineered not just for height but also to improve ride quality and handling, especially if you’re upgrading from stock components.

Why a Suspension Lift is Usually the Better Choice for Your Ram

When it comes down to it, if you’re lifting your Ram for genuine functional improvements, a suspension lift is almost always the way to go. Here’s why: Purdentix phone number

• Real Ground Clearance: As we just talked about, this is huge. A suspension lift raises your frame and crucial underbody components away from rocks, roots, and anything else the trail throws at you. This is something a body lift simply can’t do on its own. For a Ram 1500, a proper suspension lift can mean the difference between clearing an obstacle and getting stuck.
• Improved Off-Road Performance: With better ground clearance, increased wheel travel how much your suspension can move up and down, and the ability to run larger, more aggressive off-road tires, your Ram becomes a much more capable machine. Quality suspension lifts are designed to maintain or even enhance your truck’s articulation, meaning the wheels can stay in contact with uneven terrain better.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Let’s be honest, part of lifting a truck is for the look! A suspension lift provides a clean, integrated appearance, raising the entire truck proportionally. You won’t have those awkward gaps or misaligned bumpers that often come with body lifts.
• Better Ride Quality with the right kit: While lifting any vehicle can change its ride characteristics, many high-quality Ram lift kits from brands like Fox, BDS, or Icon are engineered to offer a smooth, controlled ride, even on rough terrain. You might even find your truck handles better on the highway and feels more stable thanks to upgraded shocks and springs.
• Durability and Safety: Suspension lifts are designed to modify the truck’s dynamics comprehensively. Reputable kits come with components that maintain proper steering and driveline angles, reducing stress on parts and minimizing the risk of mechanical failures. While a body lift can introduce risks by stretching factory components, a quality suspension lift is built to work in harmony with your Ram.

Addressing Ram Air Suspension Lift Kit Considerations

For those of you with Ram trucks that come with factory air suspension, like the Ram 1500 Limited or Rebel, you might be wondering about lift kits. An Ram air suspension lift kit is a specific type of suspension lift designed to work with or replace your existing air ride system.

These kits often involve specialized brackets, linkages, or even replacement air bags and shocks that integrate with your truck’s existing air compressor and control system. The goal is the same: to gain height and tire clearance, but without compromising the unique ride adjustability that air suspension offers. Many reputable manufacturers offer solutions for air-equipped Rams, so you don’t have to choose between a lift and your air ride features. Always ensure you’re looking at kits specifically designed for air suspension models to avoid compatibility issues and potential damage to your sophisticated system.

Key Differences: Body Lift vs. Suspension Lift in Detail

Let’s break down the core distinctions between these two lift types, so you can make an informed decision for your Ram. Cerebrozen Hearing Supplement: The Truth, The Hype, and Real Solutions for Your Hearing Health

Performance and Ride Quality

• Body Lift: Generally, a body lift has minimal impact on your truck’s ride quality and handling because it doesn’t change your suspension components. However, it also offers no performance improvement in terms of suspension travel or articulation. You might also notice a slightly higher center of gravity, which can make the truck feel less stable in turns, especially if combined with taller tires.
• Suspension Lift: This is where suspension lifts shine. A good suspension lift kit will not only raise your truck but also often improve its off-road performance by increasing wheel travel and articulation. With upgraded shocks and springs, you can experience a smoother ride over bumps and better handling both on and off the pavement. Brands like Fox offer performance elite shocks that significantly enhance the driving experience for Ram 1500s.

Ground Clearance and Tire Fitment

• Body Lift: Provides space for larger tires by lifting the body. However, it does not increase ground clearance under the frame, axles, or differentials. Any ground clearance gain comes solely from the larger tires you install.
• Suspension Lift: Directly increases ground clearance under the frame and other critical components. This allows you to navigate over obstacles more easily. It also makes room for much larger tires, which further contributes to overall ground clearance.

Installation Complexity and Cost

• Body Lift: The kits themselves are usually cheaper, often ranging from $400 to $800. Installation can be tedious and surprisingly costly in terms of labor because you have to disconnect numerous components, extend wiring, and potentially modify bumpers. One user reported destroying a clockspring during installation due to inexperience.
• Suspension Lift: Generally more expensive upfront, with kits ranging from $1,500 to several thousand dollars depending on the lift height and components. Installation often requires specialized tools and expertise, and a post-installation alignment is critical. While you might save some money doing it yourself, professional installation is often recommended to ensure everything is done correctly and safely.

Safety Concerns

• Body Lift: Can put undue stress on factory wiring, hoses, and steering linkages, potentially leading to malfunctions. The longer body mounting bolts are also a point of concern in severe accidents, as they could be more prone to shearing, potentially separating the body from the frame. The raised center of gravity can affect stability.
• Suspension Lift: While any lift raises a truck’s center of gravity, reputable suspension lift kits are engineered to account for these changes, often including components to correct steering geometry and maintain stability. However, improper installation or cheap kits can lead to issues like “death wobble” in some Ram models if CV axle angles are not corrected.

Benefits of Lift Kits General

we’ve established that suspension lifts are generally the way to go for your Ram. But why lift your truck at all? There are some solid benefits that make the investment worthwhile for many owners:

• Tire Clearance: This is a big one. Lifting your Ram, even just a couple of inches, lets you fit larger, more aggressive off-road tires or simply beefier street tires. This not only enhances the look but can also improve traction and performance on various terrains. For example, a 6-inch lift on a Ram 1500 can allow you to run 35-inch or even 37-inch tires.
• Aggressive Aesthetics: Let’s face it, a lifted Ram just looks cooler to many people. It gives your truck a commanding presence on the road and a more rugged, ready-for-anything appearance. It’s a popular modification for those who want their truck to stand out.
• Improved Off-Road Capability: If you’re planning to take your Ram off the pavement, a suspension lift is almost a necessity. The increased ground clearance means you’re less likely to scrape the undercarriage on rocks, logs, or deep ruts. Plus, many kits improve suspension articulation, allowing your wheels to maintain contact with the ground on uneven surfaces, which is crucial for traction.
• Better Visibility: Sitting higher in your truck gives you a better vantage point, which can be helpful for spotting potential hazards on the road or when navigating trails.
• Enhanced Towing with proper setup: While some lifts can impact towing negatively, a properly engineered suspension system with heavy-duty components can sometimes provide more stability when hauling heavy loads, reducing sag and improving control. Just be sure to check with a professional to understand how a lift affects your specific truck’s towing capacity.

Potential Downsides of Any Lift Body or Suspension

Before you jump into lifting your Ram, it’s smart to consider the potential drawbacks, regardless of the lift type. No modification comes without some trade-offs.

• Cost: While a body lift kit itself might be cheaper, a quality suspension lift can be a significant investment, often running into thousands of dollars for parts and professional installation. You might also need to factor in the cost of larger tires and wheels.
• Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Taller trucks with larger, heavier tires generally experience a decrease in fuel economy. The increased aerodynamic drag and rotational mass of bigger tires mean your engine has to work harder.
• Increased Wear and Tear: Lifting your truck changes the geometry of your suspension and drivetrain components. While good quality kits are designed to correct these angles, there’s a possibility that components like ball joints, CV axles, and universal joints might experience accelerated wear, especially if not properly maintained or if the angles aren’t perfectly corrected.
• Changes in Handling: A higher center of gravity can slightly alter your truck’s handling characteristics, making it feel less stable in sharp turns or emergency maneuvers. While quality suspension lifts mitigate this, it’s something to be aware of.
• Warranty Concerns: Installing an aftermarket lift kit, especially a suspension lift, can potentially affect your vehicle’s factory warranty. While the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act generally protects consumers, a dealership might deny a warranty claim if they can prove the aftermarket part directly caused the failure. It’s always a good idea to check with your dealership or consider Mopar-approved lift kits which often maintain the warranty.
• Entry/Exit Difficulty: A taller truck means a higher step-in height, which can make it more challenging for some people to get in and out, especially if you don’t have running boards or power steps.
• Parking and Garages: Your newly lifted Ram might no longer fit in parking garages or even your home garage, which can be an unexpected inconvenience. Always measure before you commit!

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Choosing the Right Lift for Your Ram Considering Different Models

You’re leaning towards a suspension lift – great choice! Now, how do you pick the right one for your Ram? It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, and what works for a Ram 1500 might be different for a Ram 2500 suspension lift kit.

Here are some key factors to consider:

• Your Goals:

  • Just for looks and slightly bigger tires? A leveling kit typically 1.5-2.5 inches in the front or a mild 2-4 inch suspension lift might be perfect. These are often less invasive and maintain more of the factory ride quality. For instance, a ReadyLift 2.5-inch Leveling Kit is a popular option.
  • Serious off-roading and large tires? You’ll want a more substantial 4-inch, 6-inch, or even higher suspension lift. These kits typically include more comprehensive component replacements like new control arms, knuckles, and performance shocks to handle the demands of aggressive off-road driving. Brands like BDS and Rough Country offer excellent options here.
  • Towing and hauling heavy loads? Look for kits designed with towing in mind, which might include upgraded rear springs or components that work well with air bag helper springs to maintain a level stance under load. Rancho is known for customizable kits that can improve towing capabilities.

• Tire Size: What size tires do you want to run? This directly influences how much lift you need. A 2-inch lift might clear 33-inch tires, while 35s often need a 4-inch lift, and 37s usually require 6 inches or more. Always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for their specific kits. You can find a vast selection of truck tires on Amazon. Fiel bailarina

• Budget: Be realistic about what you can spend. As mentioned, suspension lifts vary greatly in price. Don’t cheap out on critical components, as it can lead to safety issues and more expensive repairs down the road. Sometimes, it’s better to save a bit longer for a quality kit than to settle for a cheaper option that won’t perform well or last.

• Vehicle Specifics:

  • Ram 1500 Coil Spring vs. Air Suspension: Make sure the kit is compatible with your specific suspension setup. If you have factory air ride, you’ll need a kit designed for Ram 1500 air suspension lift kit.
  • Ram 2500/3500: These heavy-duty trucks have different suspension designs often coil springs or leaf springs in the rear, even some with rear air assist and require different kits than a 1500. A Ram 2500 suspension lift kit will be engineered for the heavier load capacity and different suspension geometry. RealTruck offers guides specific to lifting the Ram 2500.

• Brand Reputation: Stick with established and reputable brands. They have a proven track record, offer better engineering, and usually provide good customer support and warranties. Some top brands to consider are ReadyLift, Skyjacker, Rancho, Rough Country, BDS, Superlift, Icon, and Fox.

Installation Considerations DIY vs. Professional

So you’ve decided on a quality suspension lift for your Ram – awesome! Now comes the installation. This is a critical step, and how you approach it can make a big difference in the final outcome, safety, and longevity of your lift.

Is DIY Possible?

For some simpler leveling kits or smaller suspension lifts like a 2-inch front leveling kit that primarily uses spacers, an experienced DIYer with the right tools might be able to tackle the installation. Many kits come with detailed instructions, and there are tons of YouTube videos out there to guide you. However, even these can be more involved than they seem. You’ll need jack stands, a floor jack, various wrenches, sockets, and potentially a spring compressor which can be dangerous if not used correctly.

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For example, a MotoFab 2.5-inch Leveling Kit for a Ram 1500 might only take about an hour and a half to install. But even with such kits, you’re changing suspension geometry, and things need to be precise.

When to Go Pro:

For most full suspension lift kits, especially 4-inch, 6-inch, or higher, professional installation is highly recommended. Here’s why:

• Complexity: These kits involve replacing multiple components, disassembling parts of your factory suspension, and sometimes even cutting or welding. It’s not just a bolt-on job.
• Specialized Tools: Beyond basic hand tools, you might need specific presses, alignment equipment, or other specialized gear that most home garages don’t have.
• Correct Angles and Torque: Maintaining proper driveline, steering, and suspension geometry is crucial for safety and performance. Professionals have the knowledge and tools to ensure all angles are correct and bolts are torqued to factory specifications. Incorrect torque can lead to loose components, vibrations, or even catastrophic failure.
• Post-Installation Alignment: This is non-negotiable for any suspension modification. After a lift, your truck’s alignment will be off, and a professional alignment is absolutely necessary to ensure proper steering, tire wear, and safe driving.
• Warranty: While a lift can affect your warranty, having it installed by a certified shop can sometimes help mitigate issues with the dealership if something goes wrong. Plus, reputable shops usually offer their own warranty on the installation itself.

Think of it this way: while the initial cost of professional installation might seem high often several hundred to over a thousand dollars, it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind, proper function, and avoiding potentially dangerous mechanical issues or costly repairs down the line. Many reputable shops even refuse to install body lifts on newer trucks due to the inherent problems they can cause.

Maintaining Your Lifted Ram

So you’ve got your awesome lifted Ram, turning heads and tackling trails – that’s fantastic! But the journey doesn’t end with installation. Keeping your lifted truck running smoothly and safely requires a bit more attention to maintenance. Here are some tips to keep in mind: Fitspresso reviews reddit weight loss

• Regular Inspections: Get into the habit of visually inspecting your suspension components regularly. Look for loose bolts, damaged bushings, cracked welds, or any signs of wear on your shocks, springs, and control arms. This is especially important after off-road adventures.
• Alignment Checks: Even after the initial post-lift alignment, it’s a good idea to have your alignment checked periodically, especially if you hit a big pothole or frequently drive on rough terrain. Proper alignment prevents uneven tire wear and ensures predictable handling.
• Tire Rotation and Balancing: With larger tires, regular rotations and balancing become even more critical to maximize their lifespan and prevent vibrations. Follow your tire manufacturer’s recommendations, usually every 5,000-7,000 miles. You can find various tire maintenance tools on Amazon.
• Check Ball Joints and Bushings: Lift kits can put increased stress on these components. Listen for any creaks, pops, or clunks, and have them inspected during your regular service intervals. Replacing worn ball joints or bushings promptly can prevent more extensive damage.
• Driveshaft and CV Axle Angles: If your lift is significant, pay attention to your driveshaft and CV axle angles. If they are too extreme, it can lead to premature wear or vibrations. Some kits include components to correct these angles, but it’s important to monitor them.
• Fluid Checks: Ensure no lines brake, fuel, steering were stretched or compromised during installation that could lead to leaks. Also, if your drivetrain angles changed significantly, your differential and transfer case fluid might need more frequent checks or changes.
• Cleaning: After off-roading, thoroughly clean your undercarriage to remove mud, dirt, and debris. This prevents corrosion and allows you to spot any potential damage more easily.

Staying on top of these maintenance tasks will help ensure your lifted Ram provides you with years of reliable service and enjoyment, whether you’re cruising on the highway or conquering the trails.

Alternatives to Extreme Lifts

Maybe a full-blown 6-inch suspension lift isn’t what you need, or perhaps you’re just dipping your toes into truck modification. There are excellent alternatives that can give your Ram a great look and some added functionality without going to the extreme.

• Leveling Kits: These are incredibly popular for Rams, especially the 1500 series. A Ram leveling kit typically raises the front of your truck by 1.5 to 2.5 inches, making it level with the rear. Most factory trucks sit with a slight rake lower in the front to account for hauling weight. Leveling kits eliminate this rake, giving your truck a more aggressive, balanced stance and allowing you to fit slightly larger tires usually up to 33 inches. They are generally more affordable and easier to install than full lift kits, with minimal impact on ride quality. Brands like MotoFab, ReadyLift, and Supreme Suspensions offer popular leveling kits.
• Larger Tires Without a Lift: Sometimes, simply upgrading to a slightly taller or wider set of all-terrain tires can give your Ram the beefier look and improved traction you’re seeking, without any lift at all. You might be surprised how much difference a more aggressive tire tread and sidewall can make visually. Just be sure to check your truck’s fender clearance to avoid rubbing, especially when turning or hitting bumps.
• Mild Suspension Lifts 1-3 inches: If a leveling kit isn’t quite enough but a 4-inch lift is too much, a mild suspension lift of 1 to 3 inches can be a great compromise. These kits usually involve new springs or coil spacers and improved shocks, offering a noticeable height increase and room for bigger tires like 33s or some 34s while maintaining excellent ride quality and handling. This is a good middle-ground that provides genuine suspension benefits without the extensive modifications or higher costs of larger lifts.

These alternatives offer a fantastic way to customize your Ram, enhance its looks, and improve some aspects of its performance, all while being more budget-friendly and less invasive than a full-on, extreme lift.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a body lift bad for your Ram truck?

For most modern Ram trucks, a body lift isn’t recommended because it can cause a range of issues. It often stretches critical components like wiring harnesses, brake lines, and steering linkages, potentially leading to electrical problems and safety concerns. Additionally, it doesn’t increase ground clearance under your frame or axles, only making room for larger tires, and can create unsightly gaps between the body, frame, and bumpers. Many reputable shops advise against them for newer vehicles.

Is a suspension lift better than a body lift for a Ram?

Yes, a suspension lift is generally considered much better for a Ram truck, especially if you’re looking for true performance gains, increased ground clearance, and a clean, integrated look. A suspension lift modifies the actual suspension components, raising the entire chassis and allowing for improved off-road capability, better ride quality with good kits, and the ability to fit larger tires without the aesthetic or mechanical drawbacks of a body lift.

What are the benefits of a suspension lift kit for a Ram 1500?

A suspension lift kit for a Ram 1500 offers several benefits, including significantly increased ground clearance, which is essential for off-roading. It also allows you to install much larger tires, improving traction and aesthetics. Many quality kits enhance the truck’s overall off-road performance, articulation, and can even improve ride quality and handling compared to stock suspension.

How much does a Ram suspension lift kit cost?

The cost of a Ram suspension lift kit can vary widely depending on the desired lift height, brand, and components included. You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to several thousand dollars for the kit itself, with professional installation adding another significant cost. Leveling kits, which are a form of mild suspension lift, are generally more affordable, often in the range of a few hundred dollars.

Does a Ram body lift kit affect towing?

While a body lift kit itself doesn’t directly alter your Ram’s suspension components, it does raise the truck’s center of gravity. This raised center of gravity can potentially impact stability, especially when towing heavy loads, though it might be less pronounced than with a very tall suspension lift. However, the primary purpose of a body lift isn’t to improve towing, and a poorly executed installation could indirectly lead to issues if hoses or wiring related to towing systems are compromised. Fitspresso directions instructions

What are the best brands for a Ram lift kit?

Some of the most highly recommended and reliable brands for Ram suspension lift kits include ReadyLift, Skyjacker, Rancho, Rough Country, BDS, Superlift, Icon, and Fox. These companies offer a range of products from leveling kits to full, comprehensive suspension systems designed for various Ram models and intended uses.

Can you combine a body lift and a suspension lift on a Ram?

Yes, it is possible to combine a body lift with a suspension lift to achieve a very tall stance. However, this approach comes with amplified drawbacks and complexities. You would inherit all the potential issues of a body lift stretched components, aesthetic gaps on top of the changes introduced by a suspension lift. For most Ram owners, focusing on a high-quality, well-engineered suspension lift alone will provide superior performance and fewer headaches than trying to combine both.