Lift / Level Suspension Questions...

[PSYS]

First truck. First Ram. I've done a ton of reading on this forum since I got my truck just two weeks ago. I did a search here on the forum and didn't come up with anything quite this specific.

Interested at some point in time in giving the truck a different stance. I will also be interested in obtaining different wheels + 35" tires.

Truck will need to remain a daily driver, but the main reason in getting the truck is my wife and I bought our first home last year. I need the truck to do yard work, haul firewood (lots of firewood!), work trailer, hunting season trips, log trails, etc, etc.

Given this info and what I've read, if I'm making a "wish list" of sorts - what is more beneficial in terms of pros & cons of buying a level kit or a lift kit? I would want something subtle in the range of 1.5" - 2.0".

Certain threads I've stumbled upon in regards to level kits indicate they do detrimental damage to the ball joints / suspension components and hauling stuff in the bed of the truck isn't so great if using a level kit. Any truth to this? Am I better off sticking to a true lift kit? If so, any suggestions and/or options all of you would recommend? This truck needs to last us and I can't afford to do things wrong the first time.

Thanks, everyone and sorry for the newbie questions!

 

[Gymkata]

I'm running the Icon Vehicle Dynamics suspension...just put it on last weekend. I absolutely love it so far. It isn't cheap, but it improves every part for the trucks ride, handling, & capability.

http://www.ramforum.com/f17/gray_man_build_thread_ver_2_0_a-40135/

 

[dirtridersr]

don't level without changing the upper arms, your ball joints WILL pop out

 

[PSYS]

OMG. That Icon system is insane, but definitely outside of my budget and where I want to be for a lift kit.

any other suggestions? am I better off sticking with a true lift rather than a level?

 

[Cruizer]

From all I've read, the upper balljoint issue is with the 2013+ trucks.

If I was going to use the bed of my truck a lot, I would probably stick with a level and some nice 34" tires. You could add a 1.5" or 3" body lift in there and run 35's, but don't think you'll like climbing in and out of the bed for stuff.

 

[Gymkata]

OMG. That Icon system is insane, but definitely outside of my budget and where I want to be for a lift kit.

any other suggestions? am I better off sticking with a true lift rather than a level?

Since it sounds like you will use your bed a lot, I would suggest going with a full suspension, not just a level. You can get the components from whatever company you want. You might want to consider getting the Icon rear springs and then the other components from another/less expensive company. The dual rate springs will really help you out I think. They give about 1"-1.5" of lift in the rear and maintain a slight rake...perfect IMO if you are getting 2.5"-3.0" of lift in the front.

You could probably use the Bilstein level and add the Icon rear springs. I imagine the results would be great...and about half the price of the Icon suspension.

EDIT: just looked it up...the Mopar Performance P5155797 2'' suspension comes with 2 stage springs...it would probably be the most cost effective way to get a couple more inches of height and improve your truck's capability. It's only a grand.

 

[PSYS]

...EDIT: just looked it up...the Mopar Performance P5155797 2'' suspension comes with 2 stage springs...it would probably be the most cost effective way to get a couple more inches of height and improve your truck's capability. It's only a grand.

SWEET!!! That is phenomenal info! Much appreciated!

Sorry for the newbie question, but does the MOPAR kit essentially come with everything I did. Would anything else need to be upgraded/purchased?

 

[Gymkata]

I imagine the kit has everything you need since it is only a few inches...I'm sure there are many reviews on this site if you search...I found this thread with a quick search...

http://www.ramforum.com/f40/bilstei..._verus_coil_spacer_reviewed_ram_1500_a-45489/