How to Lift a Truck

Whether you’re behind the wheel of a new Canyon or Sierra 1500, lift kits are enticing to Houston truck enthusiasts. This off-roading upgrade empowers you to tackle any terrain around Porter with assurance. But, since lift kits can be pricey, we often hear from local drivers wondering how to lift their trucks.

So, how do you lift your truck? While there are key distinctions between suspension lift kits, body lift kits, and leveling kits, this straightforward introductory guide from the staff at  Texan GMC Buick will help you determine if you have what it takes to take on the challenge.

What Tools Do I Need to Lift a Truck?

At this point, you’re probably wondering, “How do I lift my truck?” Before you get ahead of yourself, you’ll want to check that you have the following tools necessary to install a lift kit:

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

How Do I Lift My Truck at Home? 

Online guides cannot replace the instruction manual that came with your lift kit. The following steps provide a quick overview of the process, helping you choose between DIY and professional installation. Ensure you have a lift kit that matches your vehicle’s specifications. After that, follow these steps for step-by-step instructions on how to lift a truck:

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 toward the ground.

Get Your Truck Lifted in Humble

Now that you’ve got the basics of lifting a truck at home, let’s be real—most of the time, it’s way more fun, faster, and safer to let the pros at your local Texan GMC Buick service center handle it. Just make sure you check out our rotating service specials before you drive in from New Caney—you could end up saving money on your upcoming maintenance appointment.