How to Lift a Truck

Whether your mount of choice is a Ford truck, something diesel, or another model, a proper lift kit will enhance your ground clearance, making it easier to get over obstacles. If you’re simply looking for the look, or wondering how to lift your truck for free, remember that homemade ways to lift your truck have performance, and often safety, downsides. If you want the utility of a lift kit in addition to the look, “how to lift a truck without a lift kit” might be the wrong question. Lift kit prices range from $100 to beyond $7,000 depending on the size and quality of the lift kit. Even with mild lift kits its important to follow the instructions if attempting the operation yourself. If you have problems, remember to contact our service center here at Cornerstone Plymouth near Minneapolis .

How to Lift a Truck

These are the tools required to install a lift kit:

• Vehicle jacks and jack stands
• Socket wrench
• Torque wrench
• Lug wrench
• Screwdriver

These additional tools are recommended:

• Pry bar and hammer for removing old parts (if needed)
• WD-40 or penetrating oil to loosen tight joints
• Extra nuts and bolts
• Access to a full shop is recommended

How Do I Lift My Truck at Home? A Step-by-Step Guide

Please note: Online instructions are not a substitute for the instruction manual that came with your lift kit. This is simply a brief overview of the steps.

Ensure that you choose a lift kit that fits your truck’s specifications and then follow the instructions below:

1. Remove the negative battery cable.
2. Loosen the lug nuts so the tires are easier to remove when your truck is off the ground.
3. Use your jack and jack stands to raise the vehicle. The process will take a while, so you’ll want to make sure that the vehicle’s center of gravity is right where it should be.
4. Remove the wheels and tires and set them aside.
5. Remove the old U-bolts, along with your vehicle’s current shocks and springs.
6. Attach the new bolts and, while assembling any parts according to the instructions that came with your kit, attach the new shocks and suspension.
7. Use your torque wrench to make sure that all pieces and bolts are tightened according to the proper specifications.
8. Attach your old tires, or attach a set of bigger tires that you’ve purchased for your vehicle.
9. Lower your vehicle carefully, going little by little, and keeping it as level as possible as it inches towards the ground.

If your modifications are extensive, you may need to install a longer driveshaft, a new transfer case, or additional components.

Get Your Truck Lifted at Cornerstone Plymouth in Plymouth!

Now that you know how to lift a truck, schedule service here at Cornerstone Plymouth! Whether your vehicle normally makes its rounds in Maple Grove or Minnetonka, our service and parts tips are sure to help.