Can you put a leveling kit on a Ford Ranger?
Leveling kits are a popular modification for truck owners looking to enhance the appearance and functionality of their vehicles. If you own a Ford Ranger and are considering installing a leveling kit, this guide will walk you through the basics, benefits, and considerations to help you make an informed decision.
What Is a Leveling Kit?
A leveling kit is a suspension modification designed to raise the front of your truck to match the height of the rear. Most trucks, including the Ford Ranger, come with a slight factory rake, meaning the rear sits higher than the front. A leveling kit eliminates this rake, giving your truck a more balanced and aggressive stance.
Can a Leveling Kit Be Installed on a Ford Ranger?
Yes, you can absolutely install a leveling kit on a Ford Ranger. These kits are specifically designed to fit various truck models, including the Ford Ranger, and are widely available in the aftermarket. Whether you own an older model or the latest version of the Ranger, there are leveling kits tailored to your vehicle's specifications.
Benefits of Installing a Leveling Kit
Adding a leveling kit to your Ford Ranger offers several advantages:
- Improved Appearance: A leveled truck has a more aggressive and balanced look, which many owners find appealing.
- Increased Ground Clearance: Leveling kits provide additional clearance, making it easier to navigate rough terrain or install larger tires.
- Enhanced Towing and Hauling: By leveling the truck, you can achieve better weight distribution when towing or carrying heavy loads.
Considerations Before Installing a Leveling Kit
While leveling kits are a great modification, there are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Ride Quality: Depending on the type of kit you choose, there may be slight changes to your truck's ride quality. Some kits may make the ride stiffer.
- Alignment: After installing a leveling kit, it’s crucial to get a professional alignment to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
- Warranty Impact: Check your vehicle's warranty terms, as some modifications may void certain aspects of the warranty.
Types of Leveling Kits for the Ford Ranger
There are different types of leveling kits available for the Ford Ranger, including:
- Strut Spacers: These are the most common and affordable option, designed to fit on top of the factory struts.
- Torsion Keys: For older Ford Rangers with torsion bar suspension, torsion keys can be used to adjust the front height.
- Coil Spring Spacers: These are used in models with coil spring suspension to achieve the desired lift.
Should You Install It Yourself or Hire a Professional?
Installing a leveling kit can be a DIY project if you have the right tools and mechanical knowledge. However, for those unfamiliar with suspension systems, it’s best to leave the installation to a professional. At Kevin's Autos, we specialize in suspension modifications and can ensure your leveling kit is installed safely and correctly.
Conclusion
Installing a leveling kit on your Ford Ranger is a great way to enhance its appearance and functionality. With the right kit and proper installation, you can enjoy a leveled stance, improved ground clearance, and better performance. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact Kevin's Autos for expert advice and installation services!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to make a Ford Ranger ride smoother?
Installing new leaf springs is one of the most effective ways to improve your truck's ride quality. Leaf springs can wear out over time, losing their ability to cushion your ride properly. Upgrading to new leaf springs can give a truck a smoother ride by providing optimal weight distribution and shock absorption.
How much does it cost to put a lift on a Ford Ranger?
If you want to upgrade your truck's performance and off-road capability, then you'll need a suspension lift kit, which will set you back anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000.
What is the disadvantage of leveling kit?
Some drawbacks of lifts and leveling kits include: A drop in gas mileage, since you're raising your vehicle and creating more wind "drag" Increased chance of uncontrolled steering oscillation. Decrease in driver visibility for high-lift jobs.
Will a 2 inch leveling kit affect ride quality?
Impact of a Leveling Kit on Ride Quality
It's likely that a leveling kit will not negatively impact your ride quality, and it can have a positive impact on how your truck handles. By raising the front of your truck and evening out the weight distribution, a leveling kit can improve stability and handling on the road.
Can you put a lift kit on a Ford Ranger?
You can also get a leveling kit that will lift the front of your truck to level its ride height. Suspension lift kits in the aftermarket can raise your Ranger from 1 inch to 6 inches. The height depends on how you intend to use your truck.
What suspension gives the smoothest ride?
Air Suspension. Air suspension utilizes air springs instead of traditional coil or leaf springs. It allows for adjustable ride height and stiffness, providing a customizable and smooth ride. Air suspension can adapt to varying road conditions and load weights, ensuring optimal comfort and stability.
What are the disadvantages of putting a lift kit on a truck?
Cost and warranties.
Lifting your truck might turn out to be more expensive than you think. Keep in mind that you'll probably have to get new tires, and you may be required to make other modifications to your truck to comply with state law. Plus, installing a lift kit might void your truck's warranties.
How do you make a Ford Ranger flutter?
When you want it to sound like this, here's how you do it. Rev car to about 3,000 revolutions per minute. As soon as it reaches 3,000, quickly double tap the accelerator. Enjoy them flutters, baby.
Do I need new shocks with a 2 inch leveling kit?
It's worth mentioning that trucks equipped with lift kits and aftermarket shock absorbers will need replacement shocks periodically (every 40,000 miles is a good rule of thumb). If your truck has a lift kit, make sure that you choose a set of replacement shocks that are designed to work with a lifted truck.
How much weight can a Ford Ranger hold in the back?
The 2021 Ford Ranger provides a maximum best-in-class payload capacity of 1,860 pounds.
