What ReadyLift suspension kits are

ReadyLift suspension kits are aftermarket lift systems designed to raise the ride height of pickup trucks and SUVs. The kits replace or modify your vehicle's existing suspension components — springs, shocks, and sometimes control arms — to increase ground clearance. ReadyLift manufactures kits for specific truck models, primarily Ford F-150s, Chevrolet Silverados, GMC Sierras, and Dodge Rams.

The company offers different lift heights depending on the kit. Some kits raise a vehicle 2 inches, while others go up to 7 inches or more. The height you choose affects not just how your truck looks, but also how it handles, what tires you can fit, and whether you need additional modifications like brake line extensions or driveshaft adjustments.

ReadyLift kits come in different styles. Some use coil springs, others use leaf springs, and some combine springs with adjustable shocks. The style you need depends on your truck's original suspension design and what you want the vehicle to do — whether you're lifting it mainly for appearance, for off-road capability, or for towing capacity.

Key Takeaways

  • ReadyLift kits raise your truck's height by replacing springs, shocks, and sometimes control arms with taller or stiffer components designed for your specific model.
  • Lift heights range from 2 inches to 7 inches or more, and the height you choose affects handling, tire fitment, and whether you need brake or driveshaft modifications.
  • Different kits suit different purposes: some prioritize appearance, others improve off-road performance or towing capacity.
  • Installation typically requires removing wheels, disconnecting the old suspension, and bolting in new components, a job that takes a full day at a shop or longer for a first-timer.
  • Lifting changes how your truck rides, steers, and wears tires, so understanding the trade-offs before you buy prevents costly mistakes.

How ReadyLift kits differ by lift height

A 2-inch lift is the smallest ReadyLift offers and is often called a "leveling kit" when it's designed to raise just the front of the truck to match the rear. A 2-inch lift usually requires only new springs or spacers and minimal other changes. You can often keep your factory wheels and tires, and the ride quality stays close to stock.

A 4-inch to 5-inch lift is the middle ground. At this height, you'll need new shocks, control arms, and often brake line extensions. You can fit larger tires — typically up to 33 inches — and the truck sits noticeably higher. The ride becomes firmer, and steering response changes slightly.

A 6-inch to 7-inch lift is the most aggressive. At this height, you're modifying the truck's geometry significantly. You'll need driveshaft modifications, extended brake lines, and possibly a new transfer case drop kit if you have four-wheel drive. Tires can be 35 inches or larger. The truck handles differently on the highway, and fuel economy drops. This height is chosen mainly for off-road work or extreme appearance.

What's included in a typical ReadyLift kit

A ReadyLift suspension kit includes the main lifting components: coil springs or leaf springs, new shocks, and often upper and lower control arms. The exact contents depend on the truck model and lift height. For example, a 2-inch F-150 leveling kit might include only front coil springs and new shocks. A 5-inch kit for the same truck includes front and rear springs, four shocks, control arms, and hardware.

Most kits do not include wheels or tires. You buy those separately based on the new ride height and your budget. ReadyLift kits also typically do not include brake line extensions, driveshaft modifications, or transfer case drop kits — those are sold separately or handled by the shop doing the installation.

The kit comes with an instruction manual specific to your truck model. The manual shows where each component bolts on and in what order. Quality matters here: a poorly written manual makes installation harder and slower, while a clear one helps a shop finish the job faster.

Installation: what the process looks like

Installing a ReadyLift kit is not a bolt-on job you can do in an afternoon. The process starts with lifting the truck on a hoist and removing the wheels. The shop then disconnects the old suspension — unbolting springs, shocks, control arms, and sway bar links. This step takes time because bolts are often tight and sometimes rusted.

Once the old suspension is out, the new components go in. Springs are compressed or positioned, shocks are bolted to the frame and axle, and control arms are reconnected. The shop then aligns the wheels because lifting changes the truck's geometry and affects how the tires sit. Without alignment, your tires wear unevenly and steering feels off.

A professional shop typically takes 6 to 10 hours for a 2-inch to 4-inch lift, and 10 to 16 hours for a 5-inch or taller lift. If you're doing it yourself, add 50 percent to that time. The cost of labor varies by region and shop, but expect to pay $500 to $1,500 for installation alone on a smaller lift, and $1,500 to $3,000 or more for a larger one.

How lifting affects your truck's ride and handling

A lifted truck rides differently than a stock truck. The suspension is stiffer to support the added height and weight of larger tires, so bumps feel more pronounced. On smooth highways, the difference is minor. On rough roads or gravel, you'll notice the firmer ride. Some people prefer this — it feels more connected to the road. Others find it harsher and fatiguing on long drives.

Steering also changes. A lifted truck has a higher center of gravity, which means it leans more in corners. The steering may feel slightly slower or less responsive, especially at highway speeds. Braking distance can increase slightly, though modern ReadyLift kits are designed to minimize this. If you add very large tires, the effect is more noticeable.

Fuel economy drops when you lift a truck, especially if you add larger tires. The increase in aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance means you'll visit the pump more often. The drop is typically 1 to 3 miles per gallon, depending on the lift height and tire size. Towing capacity may also change — some lifts improve it, others reduce it slightly, depending on the kit and your truck's original setup.

Choosing the right lift height for your needs

Before buying a ReadyLift kit, think about why you want to lift your truck. If you want a more aggressive look and plan to keep your truck on pavement, a 2-inch to 3-inch lift is usually enough. It improves appearance without major changes to how the truck drives or costs to maintain.

If you tow regularly or carry heavy loads, a 4-inch lift can improve departure and approach angles, which helps when towing a trailer over uneven terrain. It also gives you room for slightly larger tires, which can improve traction and load capacity. However, check your truck's payload rating — lifting adds weight, and you need to make sure you're not exceeding limits.

If you plan serious off-road use, a 5-inch to 7-inch lift makes sense. The extra height clears obstacles, and you can fit tires large enough for rocky terrain. But understand the trade-offs: the truck becomes less comfortable on the highway, costs more to maintain, and may not fit in some parking structures or under low-clearance bridges.

Maintenance and long-term costs after lifting

A lifted truck requires more frequent maintenance than a stock truck. Shocks wear faster because they work harder over bumps. Tires wear unevenly if the alignment isn't perfect or if you don't rotate them regularly. Brake pads may wear faster due to the added weight and stiffer suspension. Budget for these costs when deciding whether to lift.

Warranty coverage can be affected. Some manufacturers void suspension warranties if you lift the truck, while others honor them as long as you use approved parts. ReadyLift kits are designed to work with your truck's systems, but check your vehicle's warranty terms before installation. If you're financing the truck, the lender may have restrictions on modifications.

Resale value is unpredictable. Some buyers want a lifted truck and will pay more for one that's already done. Others prefer stock trucks and may offer less. A well-maintained lift with quality parts holds value better than a cheap lift or one that's been abused. If you plan to sell the truck later, keep records of all maintenance and the original suspension components in case a buyer wants to return it to stock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a ReadyLift kit fit my truck?

ReadyLift makes kits for specific truck models and years. Check the company's website or contact a dealer with your truck's year, make, model, and engine size. Fitment varies — a kit for a 2019 F-150 may not fit a 2015 F-150, even though they're the same model line. Buying the wrong kit wastes money and time.

Can I install a ReadyLift kit myself?

You can if you have suspension experience, a full set of tools, and a hoist. Most people should have a shop do it. Suspension work requires precise torque specs, alignment afterward, and knowledge of your truck's specific setup. A mistake can affect handling and safety. The labor cost is worth the assurance that the job is done correctly.

What size tires can I fit after lifting?

Tire size depends on the lift height and your truck's wheel well clearance. A 2-inch lift usually allows 31-inch tires. A 4-inch lift typically fits 33-inch tires. A 6-inch lift can handle 35-inch tires or larger. Larger tires cost more, affect fuel economy, and change your speedometer reading. Measure your wheel well or ask the shop before buying tires.

Does lifting affect my truck's warranty?

It depends on your manufacturer and what fails. Some warranties cover suspension components even after lifting, as long as the failure isn't caused by the lift itself. Others void the entire suspension warranty. Check your warranty documents or call the manufacturer before lifting. If you're financing the truck, ask the lender about restrictions on modifications.

How much does a ReadyLift kit cost?

Kit prices vary by lift height and truck model. A 2-inch leveling kit typically costs $300 to $600. A 4-inch to 5-inch kit runs $800 to $1,500. A 6-inch to 7-inch kit can cost $1,500 to $2,500 or more. Add installation labor, alignment, and any additional parts like brake line extensions or driveshaft modifications, and your total can easily reach $2,000 to $5,000 depending on what you choose.