Lift planning checklist & worksheet

1. The truck

2. Measurements

Measure on level ground, from the hub center straight up to the fender lip.

3. Goals: rank 1 (most important) to 5

4. Front plan

• Approach chosen: spacer / coils / short-arm system / long arms / radius-arm drop / replacement radius arms / coilovers
• Spring rate suits engine weight plus bumper and winch
• Shocks matched to the new height (droop and bump checked)
• Bump stops extended or replaced as needed
• Axle centering covered (adjustable track bar)
• Caster correction covered (arms or brackets)
• Sway bar end links suit the new height
• Steering side covered (see the steering notes on the arms page)

5. Rear plan

• Leaf: pack, add-a-leaf, shackles or blocks chosen with towing in mind
• Leaf: axle wrap considered (traction bars?)
• Coil (2014-on 2500): coils or spacers, plus rear track bar re-centering
• Air: plan agreed with the leveling system
• Rear shocks long enough for the new height
• Driveline angles and brake lines checked through full travel
• Load support plan (air bags or helpers) if towing heavy

6. Before the first drive

• All hardware torqued to the kit or factory spec at ride height where called for
• Full-lock, full-compression tire clearance checked
• Axle centered side to side
• Alignment booked: center axle, then caster, then toe
• Headlights re-aimed
• Speedometer recalibrated if tire size changed
• Hitch drop or pin box set for a level trailer

7. After the first 500 miles

• Re-check hardware the kit maker says to re-torque
• Look for rubbing marks on liners, arms and the track bar
• Check tire wear pattern and steering return to center
• Note ride height again, empty and loaded