Suspension Lift Options - Which Parts To Add/upgrade?

Lv1G6He3V2 · October 3, 2011

'99 Sierra 1500 2WD w/o lift components - "new" body style (for the '99 split year)

I'd like to lift my suspension by 1-3". Level or a slight rake is okay.

EDIT: Since this truck is 12 years old, I've decided to upgrade springs (and therefore shocks). This should improve ride quality (compared to worn components) while improving tire clearance and handling while hauling/towing. I've heard that stock leaf springs on these light pickups are awful (read: bottom-out) when under load.

Plan: Front

$155/pair - Lift coil springs (2")
$76/pair - Skyjacker Hydro 7000 shocks (to fit my vehicle w/ 2" lift springs)

Plan: Rear

$79/pair - Add-a-leaf spring kit (2.5")
$0 - Remove rear blocks (2" right?)
??? - which shocks?

What rear shocks should I choose? The rear shocks have to be correct for this vehicle + the 2" spring lift, otherwise they would feel terribly harsh no matter what brand/type. Most of the online stores I see only offer per-vehicle fitment; they do not talk about dimensions, stroke length, etc.

Will I need wheel spacers? My wheels are 17x7.5 w/ +31mm offset. I want 285/70r17 (33x11.25) tires on them. The truck's bolt pattern is 6x5.5 (139.7mm), 14mm bolts, 78mm (?) hub bore. I've found forged spacers ($42 each) if needed.

Lv1G6He3V2 · January 31, 2012

I finally got everything installed. My plan backfired a little. The mechanic said there were no blocks on the truck -- why? -- so the truck ended up with its factory rake. It doesn't look that bad. With the added height the rake is less noticeable anyway. 6.5" between front tire and fender; 8.5" between rear tire and fender.

New springs and shocks definitely firmed up the 12 year old suspension. When I turn, brake, accelerate the truck no longer feels like it is "floating" on the wheels. Also, when I go over a bump, the truck bounces around much less and hugs the road better. The ride is smooth, not harsh. Plus the back end won't bottom-out under load, with the added strength of the add-a-leaf and air shocks.

Labor was expensive: $550 for installation. They did a great job though especially with the air shock lines. I can "air up" to haul/tow or "air down" for a smoother ride.

Definitely worth the money! Old springs/shocks should be replaced anyway. :-)

Front:

2" Lift Coil Springs for Sierra/Silverado 1500 (powder coated) -- $150 / pair

from eBay, search for them, also they have 3" lift springs and various other kits

Daystar Front Shock Absorber for 2" Lift (model KU01003) -- $44 / each

www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002KPWNB2/

Rear:

2" Add-a-Leaf Kit -- $110 / pair (with u-bolts)

(some place called fat bob's garage?)

Gabriel Hijackers Air Shocks (model 49235) -- $63 / pair

www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001AM8KAO/

I'm still thinking about the wheels and tires.