So, you're thinking about installing a leveling kit on your 2021 Ram 3500? Awesome! Leveling kits not only enhance the appearance of your truck but also provide some extra clearance for larger tires. This guide will walk you through the process, making it as smooth as possible. Let's dive in!

What is a Leveling Kit and Why Install One?

Before we get our hands dirty, let's cover the basics. A leveling kit is designed to raise the front of your truck to match the height of the rear. From the factory, many trucks have a slight rake, meaning the front sits lower than the rear. This is often done for payload and towing considerations.

Why bother leveling your Ram 3500?

• Aesthetics: Let's face it, a level truck looks better. Getting rid of that factory rake gives your truck a more aggressive and balanced stance.
• Larger Tires: One of the most common reasons for installing a leveling kit is to accommodate larger tires. More clearance means you can beef up your rubber without worrying about rubbing.
• Improved Ground Clearance: While a leveling kit won't give you a massive lift, it does provide a bit more ground clearance, which can be helpful off-road.
• Better Ride Quality: Believe it or not, some leveling kits can actually improve ride quality by replacing the stock shocks with higher-performance alternatives. Plus, with the right setup, you’ll maintain that smooth ride you love.

Choosing the Right Leveling Kit

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of a leveling kit. The next step is choosing the right one for your 2021 Ram 3500. There are a few different types to consider:

• Coil Spacers: These are the most common and budget-friendly option. They simply sit on top of your factory coil springs to lift the front of the truck.
• Coil Spring Replacement: These kits replace your factory coil springs with longer, stiffer springs. They offer a more significant lift and often improve ride quality.
• Torsion Bar Keys: If your Ram 3500 has torsion bars instead of coil springs (this is more common on older models), you'll need torsion bar keys. These replace the factory keys and allow you to adjust the ride height.

When selecting a leveling kit, keep these factors in mind:

• Lift Height: How much lift do you want? Most leveling kits provide between 1.5 to 2.5 inches of lift.
• Ride Quality: Do you want to maintain or improve ride quality? Consider kits with new shocks or coil springs.
• Budget: Leveling kits can range in price from a couple hundred dollars to over a thousand. Set a budget and stick to it.
• Installation: Are you comfortable installing the kit yourself, or will you need to pay a professional? Coil spacers are generally easier to install than coil spring replacements.

Tools and Equipment You'll Need

Before you start wrenching, gather all the necessary tools and equipment. Here’s a comprehensive list to ensure you’re well-prepared. Having everything on hand will make the installation process smoother and prevent frustrating interruptions.

• Jack and Jack Stands: A good quality jack is essential for lifting your truck safely. Make sure your jack stands are sturdy and rated for the weight of your vehicle. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack!
• Wheel Chocks: Safety first! Use wheel chocks to prevent the rear wheels from rolling while you're working on the front.
• Socket Set: You'll need a variety of sockets, both metric and standard, to handle the various nuts and bolts on your truck's suspension. Make sure you have a good range of sizes.
• Wrench Set: Like sockets, you'll need a comprehensive wrench set. Combination wrenches are ideal.
• Torque Wrench: This is crucial for tightening bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. Overtightening can damage components, while undertightening can lead to safety issues.
• Spring Compressor (if required): If you're installing coil spring replacements, you'll likely need a spring compressor to safely remove and install the springs. Be extremely careful when using a spring compressor, as coil springs can be dangerous under tension.
• Hammer: A standard hammer can be useful for tapping things into place.
• Pry Bar: A pry bar can help you separate suspension components.
• Penetrating Oil: Spraying penetrating oil on rusty or stubborn bolts can make them much easier to remove. Apply it generously and let it soak in for a while before attempting to loosen the bolts.
• Measuring Tape: You'll need a measuring tape to check the ride height before and after the installation.
• Gloves and Safety Glasses: Protect your hands and eyes from injury.
• Shop Rags: Keep some shop rags handy for wiping up grease and oil.
• Work Light: Good lighting is essential for seeing what you're doing.
• Instruction Manual: Always refer to the specific instructions that come with your leveling kit. These instructions will provide detailed steps and torque specifications for your particular kit.

Having all these tools ready will not only speed up the installation but also ensure you can complete the job safely and correctly.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Alright, let's get to the fun part – installing that leveling kit! Remember, this is a general guide. Always refer to the specific instructions included with your kit, as procedures can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and type of kit.

1. Preparation

• Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your Ram 3500 is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Chock the Rear Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent any movement.
• Loosen Lug Nuts: Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels. Don't remove them completely yet.

2. Lift the Truck

• Position the Jack: Place the jack under the front axle or frame, following the recommended jacking points in your owner's manual.
• Raise the Truck: Lift the truck until the front wheels are off the ground.
• Support with Jack Stands: Place jack stands under the frame rails, behind the front wheels. Make sure the jack stands are securely positioned before lowering the truck onto them.
• Remove the Wheels: Now, completely remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels.

3. Disconnect Suspension Components

• Locate and Disconnect Sway Bar Links: The sway bar links connect the sway bar to the lower control arms. Use a wrench to disconnect them. You may need to use penetrating oil if the bolts are rusty.
• Disconnect Shocks: Remove the bolts securing the shocks to the lower control arms. Be careful, as the shocks may be under slight pressure.
• Disconnect Brake Lines and ABS Wires: Carefully disconnect any brake lines or ABS wires that are attached to the suspension components. Make sure to support the brake calipers so they don't hang by the brake lines.

4. Install the Leveling Kit

The specific installation procedure will vary depending on the type of leveling kit you have. Here are some general guidelines:

• Coil Spacers:
  • Place the coil spacer on top of the coil spring.
  • Reinstall the coil spring and shock absorber.
• Coil Spring Replacements:
  • Use a spring compressor to safely remove the factory coil spring.
  • Install the new coil spring using the spring compressor.
  • Reinstall the shock absorber.
• Torsion Bar Keys:
  • Use a torsion bar unloading tool to relieve the tension on the torsion bars.
  • Remove the factory torsion bar keys.
  • Install the new torsion bar keys.
  • Adjust the ride height using the adjustment bolts.

5. Reassemble Suspension

• Reconnect Suspension Components: Reconnect the sway bar links, shocks, brake lines, and ABS wires.
• Tighten Bolts: Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications using a torque wrench.

6. Reinstall Wheels and Lower Truck

• Reinstall Wheels: Put the front wheels back on and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
• Lower the Truck: Raise the truck slightly with the jack to remove the jack stands. Then, carefully lower the truck to the ground.
• Torque Lug Nuts: Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the proper specification.

7. Final Checks

• Check Ride Height: Use a measuring tape to measure the ride height at the front and rear of the truck. Make sure the front is now level with the rear.
• Test Drive: Take your Ram 3500 for a test drive to check for any unusual noises or vibrations.
• Re-torque: After about 50 miles, re-torque all the suspension bolts and lug nuts.

Post-Installation Considerations

So, you've successfully installed your leveling kit! Give yourself a pat on the back; you've earned it. But before you go tearing up the streets or trails, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your truck stays in top shape and your ride remains smooth and safe.

Alignment

• Get an Alignment: After installing a leveling kit, it's crucial to get a professional wheel alignment. Changing the suspension geometry can throw off the alignment, leading to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and even reduced fuel economy. Schedule an appointment with a reputable alignment shop as soon as possible.

Tire Size

• Consider Larger Tires: One of the main reasons people install leveling kits is to accommodate larger tires. If you're planning to upgrade your tires, now's the time to do it. Just make sure the tires you choose are compatible with your truck's wheels and that they won't rub against any suspension components or body panels. Consult with a tire professional to ensure proper fitment.

Headlight Adjustment

• Adjust Headlights: Leveling your truck can change the angle of your headlights, potentially blinding oncoming drivers. Check your headlight alignment and adjust them as needed to ensure proper visibility without causing a nuisance to others on the road. Most headlights have adjustment screws that allow you to raise or lower the beam.

Check Suspension Components Regularly

• Inspect Regularly: Make it a habit to regularly inspect your suspension components, including ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings. Look for any signs of wear or damage, and address any issues promptly to prevent them from escalating into more serious problems.

Driveline Vibration

• Monitor for Vibrations: In some cases, leveling kits can cause driveline vibrations, especially at higher speeds. This is more common on trucks with longer wheelbases. If you experience any vibrations, consult with a mechanic to determine the cause and explore potential solutions, such as installing a carrier bearing drop kit.

Recalibration

• Recalibrate Speedometer: After upgrading to larger tires, your speedometer may no longer be accurate. Consider recalibrating your speedometer to ensure accurate speed readings and prevent potential issues with your truck's computer systems. This can often be done with a handheld programmer or by a professional tuning shop.

Enjoy the New Look

• Enjoy the Ride: With these post-installation considerations taken care of, you can now fully enjoy the new look and enhanced capabilities of your leveled Ram 3500. Whether you're cruising down the highway or tackling off-road trails, your truck will be ready for anything.

Conclusion

Installing a leveling kit on your 2021 Ram 3500 is a great way to improve its appearance and functionality. By following this guide and taking your time, you can successfully install a leveling kit yourself and save some money on labor costs. Just remember to prioritize safety and always refer to the specific instructions included with your kit. Happy leveling!