Toyota Tundra Leveling Kit and Front End Lift Information
Jason | May 09, 2007 | Comments 111
One of the nicest and least expensive upgrades you can make to your Toyota Tundra is to add a leveling kit (also known as a front-end lift kit). Leveling kits are usually steel or aluminum spacers that are added to the top of the front suspension’s coil assembly. These spacers raise the front end of the truck to make it level with the rear without dramatically changing the vehicle’s suspension, ride, or handling. When installed correctly, a leveling kit will improve the look of your truck without altering the operation and “feel” of your truck.
Leveling kits compensate for the fact that the rear-end of most trucks is about 2″ higher than than front end. This is intentional – the rear end is higher because it’s designed to compensate for natural suspension sag when the vehicle is fully loaded. Since most of us drive our trucks when they aren’t loaded up to max payload, we don’t usually enjoy the benefit to having the rear-end raised up higher than the front.
While adding spacers to the front suspension levels out the truck while empty, one of the main benefits is the additional tire clearance we gain. Leveling kits range from 1.5″ to 3,” which means that – on Tundras at least – we can upgrade our tire size to a 33″ overall diameter, about an inch bigger than stock overall tire diameter on a 2007+ Tundra. Best of all, because a leveling kit is nothing more than spacers, neither the ride of the stock Tundra nor the handling are significantly effected.
The only downside to adding a leveling kit – aside from the cost – is a slightly higher step-in height. There’s also the possibility of premature tire wear, but that’s only if the kit is installed poorly or incorrectly. Contrary to what some dealers will tell you, adding a leveling kit won’t affect your factory warranty as long as it is properly installed. This, combined with some more reasons given below, is a good reason to have your kit installed by a mechanic.
Leveling Kit Options
A typical leveling-kit will include strut spacers, drop differential spacers, and some new hardware. Generally speaking, a good quality kit with a lifetime warranty will cost anywhere from $250 to $350. As far as materials go, we like leveling kits with metallic components over kits made from polyurethane. Poly kits usually require re-tightening within a few thousand miles, and there are more than a few examples of polyurethane kits failing (check out the photos below).
A brand new set of urethane lift kit spacers
At first blush, urethane/polyurethane spacers seem like a reasonable low-cost alternative to machined aluminum or powder-coated steel. However, significant wear and tear can cause major distortion problems, necessitating kit replacement (and likely front tire replacement as well).
Urethane lift kit spacers that have been crushed and distorted from normal wear and tear
When shopping for a leveling kit, we suggest you read through the installation instructions before you buy so you understand exactly how the kit works and what steps are needed to install it. We’ve found that the least expensive kits usually require the most labor, so be sure to weigh the minor cost sayings up-front against the extra time under your truck.
Finally, here’s a list of leveling kits and front-end lift kits that we’ve reviewed:
- ToyTec 3″ lift kit review – *Recommended (ToyTec discount available)
- Truxxx 3″ lift kit review
- Low-Range Off-Road 3″ lift kit review – *Recommended
- RIZE Industries 2.4″ leveling kit
Leveling / Lift Kit Installation
When considering installation, most leveling kit instructions suggest that home installation takes 2 to 4 hours with simple hand tools. However, that’s simply no true for most people. While almost everyone who is “handy” has the basic tools needed for installation, many popular kits require a strut compressor and a pair of hydraulic jacks to complete install. Since most home mechanics we know don’t have a strut compressor (or more than one hydraulic jack), it’s important to consider professional install.
After all, even if you have all of the necessary tools and can put the parts on at home, you’ll still need to take your truck to the shop to get a new front-end alignment ASAP. There are also some challenges associated with making the new parts “fit,” and it’s recommended that you grab a buddy to help out during installation.
In other words, considering the need to renting some extra tools, the time and trouble involved, the fact that this job is much easier with 2 people, and that you’ll need a mechanic to align the front-end anyways, we would suggest having your leveling kit installed by a professional mechanic. We’ve found that most shops will charge $150-$300 in labor (2-4 hours) to complete install.
Choosing An Installer
If you decide to have a mechanic install your leveling kit, here are some tips:
- Make sure that the shop has a modern alignment rack
- Make sure that the shop has some sort of labor guarantee on both the alignment and the kit installation.
- If you’re adding a larger set of wheels and tires to your truck, you might want to have your mechanic check the bump stops for tire rub after the leveling kit is installed.
- Finally, make sure you keep the stock parts in case there’s a problem with the kit.
More Resources:
- Discounted ToyTec parts
- ProComp 6″ lift kit info
- CST Tundra lift kits
- Total Chaos long-travel suspension kit
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Filed Under: Toyota Tundra Accessories • Tundra Lift Kits
Some “Lift kits” also level the Tundra by lifting the front more than the rear. Our 3″ kit lifts the front 3″ and the rear only 1″ to level. There are also front only kits that lift 2″ front only for leveling.
PHX Customs has the Truxxx Level Kits available for the all new Toyota Tundra. Just like the article said, they are easy to install and make a world of difference on the final look of the vehocle.
Help, my 2007 Tundra is getting a lift today @ a local shop in Azusa Ca. (4 Wheel Parts) and they just called and said the front leveling lift was done but the truck sencors lit up like a x-mas tree and they are trying to figure it out… has any one the answer???
they said they know about the traction controll and the tire presure sensors.?
Read your user manual, i have the sample problem with my tundra sr5 06 its because of the tire pressure you just take it up to the dealership and they should fix it i guess.. i didn’t get a lift i just put 20″ rims on it and the light will never go off its pretty annoying the sensors are on the tire caps i believe
be more specific which lights?
I had a 2 1/2″ Revtek leveling kit put on my 2003 Tundra. I had a CV boot throw grease and Toyota warrantied it the first time. But the second time it leaked grease, they said tough luck. It’s not made by Toyota, so we won’t warranty it. That was from the district representative.
The leaking CV boot — was it the same side both times?
The leaking CV boot is common on the old style Tundra, most qualified shops are aware of this and a simple fix is to replace the clamps on the CV boots, the boots will leak whether you lift the truck or not.
If you install a levelling kit or lift kit, you need to drop the front diff and replace the clamps.
Only two weakness’ we’ve ever found are the rear leaf springs and the front CV’s on any Tundra…great truck, we abused the heck out of our 2004 Double Cab and just replaced it with a couple of new 07’s…
I have installed many lifts, and I have come up with what I think is the best on the market for the new 2007-2008 Tundra. Many kits on the market do not include all the components you need for a complete install. I think that there is a lot of junk out there on the market that can eventually decrease the re-sale value of vehicles, such as the handling and wear of different suspension and drivetrain components. I think that research is always the best means to finding the greatest quality.
Chris — your kit sounds a lot like the Truxxx kit we’re about to test, except you use aluminum.
Why not send us one of your kits and we’ll test and review it?
Can you email me? I am willing to work something out.
Can you recommendan installer in the West Covina / Fontana, CA. area?
i had a daystar levelling kit installed on my 2wd 07 tundra and it raised my front end up 3 inches but the front sit’s 1 inch higher then the back now and they said they don’t sell a kit to raise the rear. I thoght it was called a levelling kit, key word’s levelling kit.Can i get a kit to raise the rear?,and is daystar a good brand? please help
Wayne — Your Daystar leveling kit should raise the front of your truck about 2″. All I can figure is that the kit was installed incorrectly — have you measured from the wheel center to the wheel well on each side of the truck? The driver’s and passenger side should each be identical in distance between wheel center and wheel well, and the front should be within a 1/2 inch of the back. If you notice any differences larger than that, take it back to whoever installed your kit and ask them to fix it.
As for Daystar’s quality, we’ve seen some photos of Polyurethane spacers (like those used by Daysar) collapsing from heavy use. However, that’s probably not very common. Provided you don’t do too much with it, the Daystar kit is probably good enough.
Had 3 trucks, 88 GMC K1500, 98 Ford F250 LD & current Chevrolet K2500HD. All 4WD with IFS. All had blocks between rear axle & leaf springs during first week. None required parts to be leveled. None required alignment or warranty considerations.
Why spend hundreds to get level truck?
K2500 has towed many miles with over 3200 # of trailer on goose neck hitch and did not miss 3″ blocks I discarded.
I do not care to climb higher into cab, to lift higher into bed just to follow current fashions in trucks. And don’t try to follow me around corners, you might tip over!
chris – which kit are you speaking of?
Make sure that if you have a leveling kit installed that it is done by a qualified mechanic. I just went through a nightmare situation when a local off road shop installed a 2′ in. spacer leveling kit on my 2007 Tundra. When they finished, I got back in the truck and when I started it, the ABS, TRAC, 4WD, and VSC lights were all illuminated. Also the truck would not shift into 4WD. Also when I would drive over rough surfaces, there was a knocking noise coming out from under the front end. I immediately went back in to the shop and informed the guys what was going on and they looked under the truck and couldn’t find anything amis. So I told them I was going to the dealer to have it checked out. As it turned out, they stretched and shorted the wire that goes between the wheel speed sensor and the “brain” that controls the ABS, Trac control, Auto LSD, 4WD, and all that stuff. Also they severely damaged both tie rod ends. It all came up to $950.00 to get it all fixed, and I had to leave it with them for three days. The Off road shop begrudgingly paid for it, but they do a fair amount of business with that dealership, so if it wasn’t for that, they might not have paid for it. Just be careful!
Matt – Wow. Awful story. Hard to believe someone managed to damage your tie rods installing a simple leveling kit, not to mention destroying the wheel speed sensor. What I really want to know is, how do they deliver that truck to you with a straight face? The technician is supposed to drive the vehicle after the work is performed – he should have noticed and come clean right away. I would recommend you never visit that shop again, and it might be good to call your local better business bureau too. That’s a humongous screw-up at best, and criminal negligence at worst. Imagine if you’d needed your ABS when you were driving home…it could have been much worse. Scary.
Matt: I have a 2007 Tundra. I had a two inch leveling kit installed, had the exact same problem with the wire shorting out and the knocking noise. I am from Saratoga Springs NY – are you from this area?
What would you recommend as the best brand lift kits?
coil overs. donahoe racing, sway away, camburg. More expensive, but much better option. still follow matts advice though no matter which way you do it.
I put 24″ wheels on my Tundra and I don’t have a problem with the wheels or the sensors. You maybe should take it back to the place that put the wheels on.
Check out the Review!
http://www.tundraheadquarters......-lift-kit/
Available through Low Range Off-Road
http://www.lowrangeoffroad.com/tundra.htm
I have an 07 tundra crewmax and used the Toytec 3″ front and 1″ rear. I highly recommend this lift for the Tundra. The spacers are made out of solid aluminum, and all hardware is included. The diff drop is also included in the kit. The spacers do use spring compression to lift the truck, however the ride quality is still excellent and even an improvement over the stock ride. The rear is lifted with blocks.
I have an 08 CM. and also installed a 3″ TOYTEC lift with a 1.5″ rear block and could not be happier with it. The kit came with everything I needed and took me about 4 hours to put on.I have had no problems and am impressed with the trucks handling on corners.
I have been offered the Rev Tech kit for my 2007 Tundra from a dealership in BC Canada. The deal is telling me the kit is $650 and the total cost is just over $1000 including install and alignment. When I ask them why the cost of the kit is so much more than anything talked about on here they tell me its that much better quality. Im not sure I buy this……
Has anyone else hafd any experience with this kit and how much is it installed usually??
Bob – The Rev Tech kit is nice enough, but $650 is too high. The reason for the higher price is that the dealership is marking it up. Figure the kit itself is $300-$350, and installation is another $300-$500.
I had the Ready Lift leveling kit installed a few months back. I have gone through 3 CV axels in less than 10k miles. Today I had the kit removed since the mech figured that the Ready LIft kit was the cause. The rubber on the CV axel boots would rub and “chirp” when I drove around corners. The repair shop (did not do the install) had my truck about 10 times before they were able to address and fix this problem.
I noticed that Toytec recommends the diff drop kit for all 4X4 models (which I have). I could have seaved myself $900 if I would have known about this or if Ready Lift would have included this kit. I am going after Ready Lift to pay for all the work that has been done to my truck relating to this issue since the kit has been installed. Their product is great, but they need to at least tell customers that they will need the diff. drop kit for the 2006 tundras.
DON”T BUY TEH READY LIFT W?O A DIFF DROP KIT, you will blow through CV AXELS
Nick – Good tip – thank you.
The best leveling kit on the market in my opinion is from Top Gun Customz. It is listed as a 2.25″ kit but it really lifts the front about 2.6″ with no need for a diff spacer. It is very easy to install and is under 100 bucks delivered. Check out their website http://www.topguncustomz.com
Hug: How is the kit? Anyone else installed the Top Gun Custom kit?
Has anyone had any experience with installing a tuff country leveling kit…price for installation and does it hold up over time. I read in the instructions that it needs to be tighted after a 100 miles and then again after 3000 miles. I plan on having a shop install and warranty the work and alingment. I have a 2wd 07 tundra, and would like to get bfg all terrain ta ko. Does anyone have any advice?
Also, does anyone know how long I can expect the tire to last(miles), I maintain a good service on the balance, rotation and alingment of the factory tires that came with it and have just about gotten 70k.
Greatly appreciate any good advice!
Selnpro – I can’t speak to the Tuff Country kit specifically, but if it needs to be tightened twice, make sure it’s not a polyurethane spacer kit. Polyurethane doesn’t last near as long as metal, and we don’t recommend any kit that uses it as the primary spacer material. As for the tires, check out the reviews on Tire Rack. Some people have gotten more than 70k miles out of the tires. Click this link:
http://www.tundraheadquarters.com/tirerack.php
then put in your tire size. You can read reviews for the BFGs along with a few others.
Has anyone got a name for a lifting system that you can control the hight for the back and front of the tundra crewmax? example, making the front 4inche lower than back.
I found one called RANCHO RS9000XL pro series ($700) which you can control with a wireless remote, but they don’t fit the tundra
I got a 2008 Tundra Crewmax TRD 2WD. I’m looking for the best front end leveling kit to install, as far as longevity and ease of installation. I was looking at the Fat Bob’s Garage 2″ aluminum spacers. I am also wondering what is the biggest tire size that will fit without rubbing. Any suggestions?
Lucas – Check out our reviews of the ToyTec and Low Range Off Road lift kits – both companies offer similar leveling kits, and we would recommend either. As for upgrading tires, you can go +1 – about 33″ outside diameter.
I recently purchased a 2008 Tundra Crew Max (Tundra grade w/5.7L engine/tow package/4×4) and am considering installing, or getting installed, either a lift kit or leveling kit. I will keep the 18-inch Alloy wheels (P275/65R18 tires) that are about 31-inches diameter. I’m a hunter and typically drive on vehicle trails during hunting season, and I’ve noticed the front end of my Tundra is a wee bit lower than the front end of my 2001 Toyota Sequoia. I love the low-range off-road lift kit, but I’m leaning toward the Rize leveling kit (see http://www.autoanything.com/su.....4976.aspx) which claims a 2.4-inch billet strut extension and includes the Billet differential and skid plate spacers. I will occasionally haul my Honda ATV in the truck bed and plan on getting an RV trailer in the future (~2-3 years). I’d really appreciate your opinion(s) on Rize products and if I should have other considerations. Thanks.
Jon – I don’t know anything about the Rize kit, but I’m sure it’s fine. AutoAnything doesn’t usually sell bad stuff.
i would like to see tundra headquarters to a review of the 4 inch pure performance lift?
Mike – Thanks. We’ll add it to the list.
I am thinking of using a Pro-Comp leveling kit for my 2006 Tundra, any good or bad info on this leveling kit?
Thanks,
Robert
Robert – No good or bad info to report. Generally speaking, Pro-Comp kits are top shelf.
I am inquiring if anyone knows if you install a leveling kit in a 2010 Tundra, will it affect the warrantee by Toyota? Also what leveling kit would be the best choice to simply level the front bumper with the rear? thanks for any advice! p.s. Reg cab, short box
Jeff- No warranty effect. The first three paragraphs explain that in pretty good detail…did we miss something? As for your second question, ToyTec and Low Range off-road are our two favorite lift/leveling kit manufacturers.
Hey I have a 2007 “TUNs of fUNDRA”, and was shopping for a front level kit, there are so many different kits out there 2″, 2 1/4″, 2 1/2″, 3″…what size do I need for my factory 2wd to make it equal with the rear without any special mods like cvs or diff drops?
Tony – The short answer is that a 2″ front leveling kit will get you mostly level (your truck will still have very slight forward rake). If you only go 2″, you’ll be fine without a diff. drop kit. The change in angle on the CV joints is minimal with only 2″ of lift.
I had a professional install a 3″ readylift on my 4wd 2005 tundra double cab. With the vehicle on the lift, I noticed that the upper ball joint was touching the coil spring. When the suspension is very moderately unloaded, like taking a speed bump, or hitting a good pothole, there is a banging sound that I would suspect is the ball joint hitting the spring. Has anybody experienced this, was it an improper install, or is there a fix for this?
You guys are all nuts. Of course the upper control arm is going to contact the spring, you just made the strut 3″ longer without moving any other suspension component on the front end. Everytime you hear a bang, thats the control arm, and its ball joint limiting the uptravel of the suspension, instead of the strut or bump stop. That spells a short life for your UCA and its balljoint.
Has anyone blown through a power steering rack yet? Because a lot of you will. CVs will leak because they are not made to operate at there maximum angles like the kits create. The normal Static angle, or rested ride height, is the ONLY way the cvs and tie rods should operate. It only takes a few degrees of angle to greatly increase the wear of these components.
The Tunda is a beautiful truck, and its ground clearance is GOOD ENOUGH to get most jobs done. I urge most of you to reconsider purchasing a “leveling” kit. Even with a diff drop, it still does not correct a bunch of problems that it creates.
This is why dealers, buyers, and service shops mainly shy away from dealing with vehicles with modified suspensions.
Take it from someone thats done a few leveling kits and a lift kit, its just not worth the few extra inches. Squeeze the largest tire you can clear to get an extra inch of ground clearance and call it a day. Don’t spend $1000 on large tires, and then figure, “might as well get a leveling kit for $75 so the tires fit” When you make that decision you take a decision thats decent: getting larger tires, and turn it into a huge mistake: throw off all my geometry in case they rub.
Find other ways to clear them, or go down a tire size.
Best of luck to everyone!
Robert – Solid advice – at the end of the day, you are 100% technically correct. Any accessory that significantly changes the factory configuration runs the risk of increased wear and tear. Still, some spacer kits are better than others in terms of CV wear so I don’t think it’s fair to lump them all together. There’s also the fact that some truck owners are different than others when it comes to wear and tear. I think that a basic spacer leveling kit is just fine if the truck’s owner isn’t a hard core off-roader, and I’ve seen many of these trucks function for 100k miles+ without any CV wear or steering rack issues. The factory configuration is, by definition, “right,” but that doesn’t mean it’s the only reasonable way to adjust a suspension. If you’re good to your truck and you’re not looking for a “real” off-road setup, a modest leveling kit is a reasonable accessory. Lots of people have them with no problems.
Thanks. I have nothing againts lifting a pickup truck, I (to an extent) that 2″-4″ can really be beneficial for a truck, along with larger tires.
But, I guess from a long term standpoint I can’t justify taking the risk. Perhaps I’d feel differently if I had lots of money to burn. I like to run my trucks into the ground ( i take great care of my pickups) but, I like to keep them as long as they can possibly last before they become a money pit. I’d hate for my truck to become a money pit even a few years earlier, do to somthing like a leveling kit.
But all in all, I guess a leveling kit can be useful for alot of things.
Robert – You bet – I completely understand your points and they’re well taken.
HellO, I have an 07 Tundra limited, i put 3 inch coil spacers in the front and 1inch and a half blocks in the rear. Now it stands mean, but i am wondering how big of a tire i can fit on without rubbing. My Stocks are 275 65 20, Please help!
Stephen – Are you sure your stock rims are 20″? If they’re 18″ (more likely), the biggest tire you’ll fit without any rub is probably 33″ in height…and there WILL be rub at 33″ – just not much of it. Assuming you have an 18″ rim, a 285/65 R18 (32.6″) would be just a touch bigger (32.6″ instead of 32.1″) and likely wouldn’t rub at all. A Tundra owner we know is running 305/65’s, but cutting was involved.
I have an 07 tundra and I just purchased bf goodrich all terrain at’s Lt325/65 R18 with the limited chrome 18″ rims. What is the best option to go with to fit these on my truck without throwing off everything mechanical on the truck? I’m not worried about cost, I want it done right though. I don’t want to get rid of the tires, cause they are brand new and I got a steal for them at only $700. Any advice would be great! Thanks
Patrick – Those are almost 35″ tires. If you want to make sure they fit with no issues, I’d suggest a Pro-Comp Stage II 6″ lift kit. You’ll get plenty of ground clearance, upgraded suspension, and your truck will look awesome. The cost of the kit is $2500 + install. If that doesn’t work, a 3″ lift kit from ToyTec (or similar) will probably get them to fit, but you’ll need to do some cutting on the fenders, skid plate, and you’ll have trouble with tire rub at full stop.
I own a 2007 Double Cab long box Tundra and I have been very interested in having a leveling kit installed by Big O Tires. I was told by my Toyota Dealer in Kamloops, B.C. Canada that Toyota Canada may not honor my warranty can they do this is it legal
please help
Thanks
Tom – This is a lie perpetuated by Toyota dealership employees who enjoy telling you what you can and can’t do. Here’s the short version: There is federal legislation in place that makes it illegal for Toyota to void your warranty because you added an accessory. The ONLY possible repercussion would be that your accessory could cause an associated part to fail. In that instance, the associated part would not be covered.
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Put another way – it only hurts your warranty on related parts. If you install a lift kit incorrectly and it slowly but surely causes your ball joints to wear out, that’s not going to be covered. However, your lift kit wouldn’t hurt your engine, your radio, your air conditioner, etc., so all of those parts still have their full warranty. Make sense?
I have an 08 Tundra SR5 CrewMax, with the 18″ wheels. What is the largest tire size I can install on the stock truck. Also, assume I stick with the 18″ wheel, what width wheel would I need for the new tire. Thanks.
Gary – 31″ is max on a stock truck. 33″ with a front-end lift. 35″ is possible with a 3″ lift, but more likely with a 6″. Some people are putting 37’s on 6″ lifted trucks. As for wheel width, this is a question that’s going to depend very much on your wheel style. You can check out the TireRack for some tire and wheel combos that are guaranteed to fit your stock truck. You can even see what they’ll look like on your vehicle. http://www.tundraheadquarters.com/tirerack.php
I have 08 Tundra crewmax. i bought the readylift 2.5 leaving kit for the front-end. My buddy works at the parts store told me i coulf fit 305/60/18 after the kit. Im thinking that might be to much tire. Is he right or am I. please Help
Justin – That size sounds very plausible to me.
I spend a fair amount of time on logging roads in Maine. One of the things that I don’t care for is the splash back from mud puddles or standing water in the road. Several times it has created a situation where I could not see through the front windshield.
Will lifting the front end of the truck help reduce this?
Thanks,
Matt – That sounds like good fun, but I don’t have to do it everyday!
Where is the splash coming from? If it’s your own wheels, I don’t know that an extra 2 or 3″ of lift will help. My guess is that fender flares would make a bigger difference.
Jason,
It comes up over the hood and onto the windsheild from the front tires. My truck is an 08 dbl cab 4X4. I’ll have to consider the flares I guess although the splash seems to come up over the headlite area. This last week it was so bad i had to stop and clean the headlites several times because I couldn’t see. I was thinking that the downward angle of the truck contributes to that.
I’m going to lift it anyway but was hoping someone might have had similiar experiences. Maybe it is something i should talk to Toyota about?
Thanks
Matt – Now I understand. I could see a lift helping that for sure. A bull-bar might help as well. Anyone else?
I have an 06 Tundra 4×4. I put a Daystar 2″ leveling kit on it right when I bought it new and it has been great (30,000 miles). I am looking at suspension lift kits to raise my truck to accomodate 33″ tires. Couple of questions: Will I need to put the factory spacers back in when I put the new lift on it? Also, I am looking at the Tuff Country 4.5 inch lift and it appears to be a solid kit. Do you have any guidance on this? Thanks.
Craig – You don’t need to undo the install of your Daystar kit – whatever kit you buy will simply replace the Daystar spacers. As for kits, we like the products from ToyTec and Low Range Off-Road – either one of their 3″ lift/leveling kits will accommodate 33″ tires. In fact, your existing setup might accommodate 33’s. I’ve never heard anything bad about Tuff Country either, so I’m sure you’ll be happy with them.
[...] how the spacer lifts work and the pro's/con's between the different types. Just a good FYI. Toyota Tundra Leveling Kit and Front End Lift Information | Tundra Headquarters __________________ 2008 CrewMax 4X4 Pioneer AVIC Z3. Flowmaster Super 40 Dual Exhaust. [...]
Hey guy’s, I’ve got a 2010 rock warrior and looking at a leveling kit. Which would u recommand??
Jason, thanks for the info. I did some checking on the Toytec Ultimate lift and it looks like a great product. The coilovers are adjustable for up to 3.5″ on the front and 1.5″ block in the back and includes the diff drop. What size tires should I be able to run with this setup?
Craig – 33’s should fit with ease. If you’re up for doing some cutting, you might be able to get some 35’s under it (but I’d just go with 33’s).
Should I be concerned about the cv joints wearing with the Toytec Ultimate lift? I would most likely adjust it to 3.5″ since I already have 2.5″. I have narrowed it down to this kit or the Tuff Country 4.5″. Does anyone have experience/recommendations on these two? Thanks.
Craig – There’s a lot of argument over that question. The owner of ToyTec and I have spoken at length about the issue, and his stance is that any kit can increase CV wear unless the differential is also dropped. ToyTec goes to great lengths to keep the CV joint angles as close to factory as possible. Other kits we’ve tested (the Truxxx kit, for example) didn’t do as good of a job.
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The 4.5″ kit you mention is for an 00-06 Tundra – didn’t realize we were talking 1st gen! That kit includes new frame rails to drop the diff, so it shouldn’t be an issue. However, the cost and labor difference between the two kits is pretty substantial. Am I missing something?
The Toytec Ultimate lift should be far easier to install but I would like to have a sense of how much additional cv wear (if any) to expect vs the 2.5 leveling kit I already have on my truck, which does not have a diff drop. If all things were equal – primarily the labor involved – the 4.5″ would be ideal but I don’t want to get into cutting, etc.
Craig – According to ToyTec, there is no additional wear on CVs as a result of their kit because of the diff. drop. Having looked at the angles first-hand, I would agree. I would also say the same of the Low Range Off-Road kit, and I’m sure it’s true on a lot of kits. The diff. drop is the key.
I just bought a 2wd 07 tundra crew cab with the trd package. Iam looking to level the front end with the back. I also plan to put 20″ rims on it with a lower profile tire than comes on it stock with the18″ rim. It looks like lots of you recomend the ToyTech leving kit. What size tire can someone recomend to get that look i am going for and if i do go with the 2″ ToyTech kit will that affect the cv joints in any way? I am trying to get a clean look and will not be doing any off-roading so will this setup work for me?
Jake640 – Read the comments above – the answers to your questions are there.
How long do those urethane spacers last with normal wear?
Alternators – It depends on wear – most of them will last forever, but heavy-duty users can crush one in a weekend.
I HAVE AN 2001 TUNDRA V8, W/ A FABTACH ADJ 2.5″ LEVELLING KIT ON IT. SUGGESTED TIRES WERE 28575/16, BUT THEY RUB FR FENDERS, AND MY CHAINS RUB. DOES ANYONE KNOW IF I CAN ADD A SPACER KIT TO THIS EXISTING LEVELING KIT TO GAIN ANOTHER1-2′ W/ OUT COMPRIMISING MY ALIGHNMENT? OR WHO CAN MODIFY ME A KIT IN SO/CALIF. ( IS IT POSSIBLE)
THANX TO ALL……..
I am looking at leveling and new tires for my ‘10 CM and am concerned about tire rub like most people. Everybody talks about max diameter that will fit w/o rub but nobody mentions the tread width. I would assume that width is as important as diameter when it comes to rub. I want the tires to be flush w/ the outside of the flares but don’t want to cut away anything. Any wisdom out there about max traed width?
I also found some wheels for a great price but they have a +12mm offset. I know most wheels for 07+ tundras are +35-+30. Is that going to create problem for tire wear or suspension components?
I have an 08 2wd Tundra DC. I was looking at a ReadyLift 2.4″ front end levelling kit. Are there any outstanding concerns or defects with this kit which might harm my truck in the long term? (It would be installed at a professional shop) Thanks for any help in advance. I really enjoy this site also…
Jon – I’m not sure, but my guess would be that you’ll have to install a new kit (I can’t think of any add-ons for any kit).
Weaver – Width absolutely matters, but usually the tallest tire is the widest tire available. I don’t know the factory offset numbers, but anything bigger than factory is going to come out past the fenders. As always, your local tire dealer is the best place to go…not because they have the answers, but because if they order the wrong size they can send them back.
Andrew – No issues specific to Ready Lift that I’m aware of. The main issues with leveling kits are install related, so if you’re having a pro do the work you’ve got no problems.
[...] out this link: Toyota Tundra Leveling Kit and Front End Lift Information | Tundra Headquarters Has some good info on lift/level kits. One point is to get a kit with aluminum spacer blocks. I [...]
jason, what handling effects will the lift kit have on my 10 Tundra will pull a very heavy load?
jim – I doubt you would notice a difference if you’re pulling – the weight shifts a little, but it’s almost imperceptible. You *would* notice a difference if you add a snow plow or a heavy front-end winch and bumper combo – reducing front spring travel and adding front-end weight = a rougher ride.
I’ve got an 04 Tundra double cab 4×4 TRD. From what I’ve read above, if I do a 3 inch lift, I should be able to accommodate 33 inch tires, correct? Any other mods recommended besides the diff drop? I’ve seen some guys lifting the rear an inch or two, is this recommended?
I’m looking to buy 3 and 1 kit from ready lift for my 2007 tundra but according to them if you have a TRD model there is a chance that your front will be higher then the back because of the “rake” and they suggest to go with a 2.4 and 1 instead but you can only fit up to 33″ tires with this kit, I rather get the 3 and 1 kit that can fit 35″ and put 33″ so that would definitely prevent having any Tire rub. Is there anyone out there that has a 3 and 1 on a TRD model and everything turned out fine or has anyone heared about this TRD model dilemma????
jason, any dealings with putting a supercharger in a flex fuel 5.7. Toyota says that will not work in a flex fuel enging. I am intrested in what commponets make the 5.7 a flex fuel and what would need to be changed to make it compatible with the supercharger from TRD?
?Thanks
Jim
any information on Toyota plans to introduce a diesel power tundra
dannyboy – I’m not as sure on the old body style, but I’m going to say yes.
MARC – 35’s sound big for a 3″ lift. Are you planning on doing any cutting, or did they tell you what size tires you need? Beware lift manufacturers who promise 35’s will fit without giving you more info.
Jim – Try using the search feature bro! Here’s an answer to each question: I commented about flex fuel on this post on April 9th, 2009 and then many times afterwards – http://www.tundraheadquarters......ft-torque/ – The diesel info is here – http://www.tundraheadquarters......ta-tundra/
Has anyone installed the 3.5″ Toytec Ultimate lift kit on a 1st generation Tundra? I would like to see some pictures. Thanks.
I have a 2006 Toyota Tundra double cab 2wd and i just got a 3 inch readylift kit installed. I currently have 265×70x17. I was wondering what is the biggest tire my truck would fit without scrubbing the wheel wells?
Ryan – See the previous comments. The bottom line is that your local tire dealer is your best resource.
Can you please tell me how much I can expect to be charged for installation on a LRO 3/1 leveling kit on my 10 DC 4×4? Also can you recommend a shop in Denver,CO?
Jim – $200-$350 should cover install and a front-end alignment. As for shops, I like the guys up at Mountain States Toyota.
Jason, thank you very much for the information. I really appreciate it.
You bet.
Jason, sorry to bother you again. I stopped into Mountain States and was told that labor would be $600-750.00 including the alignment. Any other places you recommend? Also is it better to have my new tires and rims put on when the kit is installed or wait a period of time for it to settle? Thanks for the input.
Hey jason,
i’ve been debating this. I was thinking of 2″ in the front and 0 in the back but after reading all the debates about pre-mature wear and tear i’m not sure anymore. As you know, i kept my z-71 for 15 years and i have every intention to do the same with the 2010 dc 4×4. Does anyone really know the actual potential of issues popping up?
Jim – I just got off the phone with Jeff at MST and here’s what he said – 4 hours of labor to install a 3″ lift kit (3 hours for the front, 1 hour for the back), plus an alignment. The total cost is about $600…not sure why you were told $750. Jeff is the manager, so he would be the guy to ask if you decide to go back there.
If you’re looking for other installers, there are some 4×4 shops around town that can definitely do the work and are probably charging a lower labor rate. I don’t have any first-hand experience with these independents, so I would suggest checking out ratings on Yelp.com.
Danny – I’ve had this discussion with a lot of people over the years, and the only consistent answer I can come up with is that a small lift (2-3″) probably doesn’t harm the vehicle so long as a diff-drop kit is also installed. If there is any long-term issue, it’s premature wear on the CV joint…and I’m thinking that “premature” is a very subjective term in this case.
No one can give me a definitive answer as to how long a CV joint should last, so how can anyone know if they wear early? I say go for it.
I have an 05 tundra and i just had a 2.5 front 1.5 rear leveling kit put on but the front is still about an inch to low. is there a spacer or something that i can use to make it lok better
Brent – Nothing easy – you’ll have to pull the spacers you put in and replace them with something bigger. Who made your kit? They should be held accountable for selling you something that didn’t level your truck…2.5″ in the front is too low if you’re going to use 1.5″ blocks in the back.
It’s a tuff country put on by les schwab. They told me it’s the one they use all the time and now that it’s on there is nothing they can do. so i guess i’m just stuck with it for now.
Brent – Pulling the rear blocks would put you closer to level, and it’s not that much work. Of course, you might end up with the front being higher than the rear…so maybe the best move is to do nothing.
I just ordered a set of nitto grappler mud tire 33×12.5×20 will i hav problems fitting them on my truck? I hav a 2007 tundra dub cab 2wd , i kno i need to lift my truck so i can fit tires but how much 3″ front 1″ rear , or can i go 2.5″front an 1.5″ rear HELP ???
Also to all the tundra owners who have lifted your truck what brand has the best leveling kit an have u had any problems since your truck hav been lifted any sugestions thanks ?
Jaden – The answers you seek are in the comments above your own.
Just installed lift kit an mud tires truck looks great but one problem , when i go over a speed bump or any bump i here squeaking . It sounds like it is coming from the front could it be the front leveling spacers , do i need to retiten the nuts is it normal?
Jaden C – I don’t think you need a re-tightening, but it’s a good idea to check if you’re not sure. Also, depending on the kit you’ve installed, you may have to re-tighten at 15k miles.
As far as the squeak, it could be tire rub.