So, you're thinking about leveling out your 2021 Ram 3500? Awesome! A leveling kit can really improve the look of your truck and give you some extra clearance for bigger tires. But before you jump in, let's walk through what's involved in installing a leveling kit on your Ram 3500. This guide will cover everything from why you might want one to the nitty-gritty of the installation process. Trust me, with a little patience and the right tools, you can totally handle this.

Why Install a Leveling Kit?

First off, let's talk about why you might want to install a leveling kit on your 2021 Ram 3500. From the factory, most trucks have a bit of a rake, where the rear sits higher than the front. This is done for a few reasons, mainly to improve aerodynamics and prevent the headlights from blinding oncoming traffic when the truck is loaded. But, let's be honest, it's not the coolest look. A leveling kit raises the front of your truck to match the height of the rear, giving it a more balanced and aggressive stance. This is a simple modification that can drastically improve the vehicle's appearance.

Beyond aesthetics, a leveling kit also provides some practical benefits. For example, it gives you more room for larger tires. If you're into off-roading or just want a more rugged look, this is a big plus. Plus, the additional ground clearance can be helpful when navigating rough terrain. You can kiss those awkward angles goodbye. A leveling kit improves the approach angle allowing you to tackle obstacles without scraping the front bumper.

Installing a leveling kit can also improve the overall ride quality of your truck. Many leveling kits use high-quality components that are designed to provide a smoother, more comfortable ride. This can be especially beneficial if you frequently drive on rough or uneven roads. Additionally, a leveling kit can help to improve the handling and stability of your truck, making it easier to control in various driving conditions.

However, keep in mind that installing a leveling kit can also have some drawbacks. For instance, it can slightly affect the fuel economy of your truck, as the increased height can create more wind resistance. It can also change the way your truck handles, especially if you go with a very tall leveling kit. And, of course, there's the cost of the kit and the installation. But overall, the benefits of a leveling kit often outweigh the drawbacks, especially if you're looking to improve the look and performance of your truck.

Choosing the Right Leveling Kit

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of a leveling kit. Now comes the fun part: choosing the right one for your 2021 Ram 3500. With so many options on the market, it can be a little overwhelming. But don't worry, I'm here to help. First, you need to decide how much lift you want. Most leveling kits for the Ram 3500 offer between 1.5 to 2.5 inches of lift. A smaller lift will give you a subtle change in appearance, while a larger lift will be more noticeable. Keep in mind that the higher you go, the more likely you are to need additional modifications, like longer shocks or a track bar bracket.

Next, you need to consider the type of leveling kit. The most common types are strut spacers and coil spring spacers. Strut spacers are generally easier to install and are less expensive, but they can sometimes affect the ride quality. Coil spring spacers, on the other hand, tend to provide a better ride but can be more difficult to install. There are also more advanced leveling kits that include new shocks or even complete coil spring replacements. These kits offer the best performance but come at a higher price.

When choosing a leveling kit, it's also important to consider the brand. Look for reputable brands that have a good track record for quality and reliability. Some popular brands for Ram 3500 leveling kits include Rough Country, Readylift, and Superlift. Read customer reviews and do your research to make sure you're getting a kit that's well-made and will last. It's also a good idea to check the kit's warranty. A good warranty can give you peace of mind knowing that you're protected if something goes wrong.

Finally, think about your budget. Leveling kits can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars, depending on the type and quality. Set a budget before you start shopping so you don't overspend. And remember, it's often worth it to spend a little more for a higher-quality kit that will last longer and perform better.

Tools and Preparation

Alright, you've got your leveling kit picked out. Great! Now it's time to gather your tools and get your truck ready for the install. Here's a list of the basic tools you'll need:

• Jack and Jack Stands: You'll need a good jack to lift your truck and jack stands to support it safely.
• Socket Set: A variety of socket sizes will be necessary to remove and install various bolts and nuts.
• Wrenches: You'll need both open-end and box-end wrenches in various sizes.
• Torque Wrench: This is essential for tightening bolts to the correct torque specifications.
• Spring Compressor: This is needed to safely remove and reinstall the coil springs.
• Hammer: A hammer can be useful for dislodging stubborn parts.
• Pliers: Pliers can be helpful for various tasks, like removing clips and cotter pins.
• Penetrating Oil: Spraying penetrating oil on rusty bolts can make them much easier to remove.
• Wheel Chocks: Use wheel chocks to prevent your truck from rolling while it's lifted.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and grease.

Before you start the installation, it's a good idea to read through the instructions that came with your leveling kit. This will give you a good understanding of the process and any specific steps that are required for your particular kit. Also, park your truck on a level surface and chock the rear wheels. This will prevent the truck from rolling while you're working on it. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels before you lift the truck. This will make it easier to remove the wheels once the truck is in the air.

Once you have your tools and your truck is prepped, it's time to start the installation. Take your time and be careful, and you'll have your 2021 Ram 3500 leveled out in no time!

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Okay, let's get down to business! Here's a step-by-step guide to installing a leveling kit on your 2021 Ram 3500. Keep in mind that the exact steps may vary depending on the specific kit you have, so always refer to the instructions that came with your kit. With that said, here's a general overview of the process:

1. Safely Lift the Truck: Use your jack to lift the front of the truck and place jack stands under the frame rails for support. Make sure the jack stands are securely positioned before you start working.
2. Remove the Front Wheels: Once the truck is safely supported, remove the front wheels. This will give you access to the suspension components.
3. Disconnect the Sway Bar: Disconnect the sway bar links from the lower control arms. This will allow the suspension to move freely.
4. Disconnect the Shocks: Remove the bolts that hold the shocks in place and disconnect the shocks from the lower control arms.
5. Remove the Brake Calipers: Remove the brake calipers from the spindles and secure them out of the way. Be careful not to damage the brake lines.
6. Disconnect the ABS Wires: Disconnect the ABS wires from the spindles. This will prevent them from being stretched or damaged.
7. Remove the Hub Assembly: Remove the hub assembly from the spindle. This may require a special tool.
8. Compress the Coil Springs: Use a spring compressor to compress the coil springs. This is a crucial step for safely removing the springs.
9. Remove the Struts or Coil Springs: Once the coil springs are compressed, you can remove the struts or coil springs from the truck.
10. Install the Leveling Kit: Install the leveling kit components according to the instructions that came with your kit. This may involve installing strut spacers or coil spring spacers.
11. Reinstall the Struts or Coil Springs: Reinstall the struts or coil springs, making sure they are properly seated.
12. Reassemble the Suspension: Reassemble the suspension components in the reverse order of how you disassembled them. Make sure all bolts are tightened to the correct torque specifications.
13. Reinstall the Wheels: Reinstall the front wheels and tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque specifications.
14. Lower the Truck: Carefully lower the truck back to the ground and remove the jack stands.
15. Test Drive: Take the truck for a test drive to make sure everything is working properly. Check for any unusual noises or vibrations.

Post-Installation Tips and Considerations

You've done it! You've successfully installed a leveling kit on your 2021 Ram 3500. Give yourself a pat on the back. But before you go tearing up the trails, here are a few post-installation tips and considerations to keep in mind:

• Get an Alignment: After installing a leveling kit, it's crucial to get a professional wheel alignment. The change in suspension geometry can affect the alignment angles, which can lead to premature tire wear and handling issues. A proper alignment will ensure that your truck drives straight and true.
• Check the Torque: After driving the truck for a few miles, it's a good idea to re-check the torque on all the bolts you loosened or removed during the installation. This will ensure that everything is still tight and secure.
• Adjust Headlights: Leveling your truck can change the angle of your headlights, which can blind oncoming traffic. Adjust your headlights so they are properly aimed. Most trucks have adjustment screws that allow you to raise or lower the headlight beams.
• Consider Longer Shocks: If you installed a leveling kit that provides more than 2 inches of lift, you may want to consider upgrading to longer shocks. The stock shocks may be too short for the new ride height, which can limit suspension travel and affect ride quality.
• Monitor Tire Wear: Keep an eye on your tires for any signs of uneven wear. This can be an indication of an alignment issue or other suspension problem. If you notice any unusual wear patterns, take your truck to a mechanic for inspection.

Conclusion

Installing a leveling kit on your 2021 Ram 3500 is a great way to improve the look and performance of your truck. It's a project that you can definitely tackle yourself with the right tools and a little bit of patience. Just remember to do your research, choose the right kit, and follow the instructions carefully. And don't forget to get an alignment after the install! With these tips in mind, you'll have your Ram 3500 looking leveled and ready for anything in no time. Happy wrenching, guys! I hope you found this guide helpful and feel confident in tackling this project. Good luck, and enjoy the new look of your leveled Ram 3500!