The Ford F150 is a versatile and powerful truck that has long been favored by drivers for its durability, performance, and adaptability. Whether you use your F150 for work, recreation, or everyday driving, the desire to customize and enhance the vehicle’s capabilities is common among truck owners. One popular modification is the installation of a leveling kit, which raises the front of the vehicle to match the height of the rear, eliminating the factory rake and providing a more balanced, aggressive stance.
While a leveling kit offers several practical and aesthetic benefits, it’s important to understand that like any vehicle modification, it also comes with potential downsides. The decision to install a leveling kit on your F150 involves weighing the pros and cons carefully, as it can affect everything from the truck’s appearance and off-road performance to fuel efficiency and suspension longevity.
In this in-depth article, we will explore the 12 key benefits of installing a leveling kit on your F150, followed by 10 potential drawbacks that you should consider before making this modification. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive overview so you can make an informed decision about whether a leveling kit is right for you.
Pros Of Installing A Leveling Kit On An F150
1. Improved Aesthetic Appearance
The factory rake on the Ford F150, where the rear sits higher than the front, can detract from the truck’s overall appearance. A leveling kit eliminates this rake, giving the truck a more aggressive and balanced look. For many truck owners, aesthetics are a key reason for installing a leveling kit. A leveled F150 looks more proportional and visually appealing, whether you’re on the road, at a worksite, or off-roading. The enhanced stance creates a rugged, powerful presence that’s hard to ignore.
2. Allows For Larger Tires
One of the most functional benefits of installing a leveling kit is that it creates more space in the wheel wells, allowing for the installation of larger, more robust tires. Larger tires not only contribute to the truck’s overall look, but they also improve traction and durability, especially in off-road conditions. Bigger tires give your F150 the ability to tackle rough terrain with greater ease, providing improved performance in mud, snow, sand, or rocky environments.
3. Increased Ground Clearance
A leveling kit raises the front of your F150, giving you increased ground clearance. This extra height can be incredibly beneficial for off-roading or driving on uneven terrain, as it helps prevent the truck’s undercarriage from scraping against rocks, debris, or obstacles. The added clearance reduces the risk of damage to the front bumper, oil pan, or other components under the truck, making it a great modification for those who frequently venture off the beaten path.
4. Better Handling Of Heavy Loads
When you haul heavy loads or tow trailers with your F150, the added weight can cause the rear of the truck to sag while the front remains lower. This imbalance can affect handling, braking, and control. A leveling kit helps balance the truck’s suspension, ensuring more even weight distribution across the front and rear axles. This not only improves overall handling but also enhances safety, particularly when towing heavy loads or driving with a full bed.
5. Improved Visibility
Raising the front of your truck with a leveling kit enhances your visibility while driving. By sitting higher up, you gain a better view of the road ahead, which can be particularly beneficial when navigating through heavy traffic or difficult terrain. Improved visibility reduces blind spots and allows you to spot potential obstacles sooner, which is important for both highway driving and off-road adventures.
6. Enhanced Off-Road Capability
Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the enhanced capabilities a leveling kit provides. The increased ground clearance and ability to install larger tires make your F150 more adept at handling uneven, rocky, or muddy terrain. A leveled truck performs better in off-road environments, allowing you to take on tougher trails without the risk of bottoming out or damaging the truck’s front end.
7. Cost-Effective Modification
Compared to other suspension modifications, such as a full lift kit, leveling kits are relatively affordable. They offer noticeable improvements to both the truck’s appearance and functionality without requiring a significant investment. For truck owners looking to enhance their vehicle without spending thousands of dollars, a leveling kit provides an accessible, cost-effective option that delivers great results.
8. Simpler Installation Process
Installing a leveling kit is generally easier and quicker than other suspension modifications, such as a full lift kit. Many leveling kits are designed for straightforward, do-it-yourself installation, requiring only basic tools and mechanical knowledge. For those who prefer to have the kit professionally installed, it typically takes less time and costs less than a full suspension lift, making it a convenient option for truck owners looking for a quick upgrade.
9. Maintains Factory Ride Quality
One concern with suspension modifications is that they can negatively impact ride quality. However, most leveling kits are designed to maintain the factory ride characteristics of your F150. Since the changes to the suspension are minimal, you won’t experience the harsh or stiff ride often associated with larger lift kits. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of a leveled truck while preserving the smooth, comfortable ride Ford F150s are known for.
10. Prevents Front End Sag Over Time
Over time, the front suspension of a truck may begin to sag due to the weight of the engine and other components. This sagging can affect both the appearance and performance of your F150. A leveling kit helps to prevent or correct this issue by raising the front to match the rear, ensuring that the truck maintains a level, balanced stance. By addressing front-end sag early, you can also prolong the life of your suspension components.
11. Improved Vehicle Balance
A leveled F150 feels more balanced and stable, especially when carrying heavy loads or driving off-road. The factory rake can cause the truck to feel imbalanced, particularly in rough or uneven terrain. By leveling the truck, you improve its stability and handling, making it more predictable and easier to control in a variety of driving conditions. This improved balance can enhance both safety and performance.
12. Potential Increase In Resale Value
Many truck buyers appreciate the visual and functional enhancements provided by a leveling kit. A leveled F150 with larger tires and an aggressive stance can be more appealing to potential buyers, especially those who enjoy off-roading or value aesthetic upgrades. This can lead to an increase in resale value when it’s time to sell or trade in your truck. For buyers looking for a truck that’s already customized, a leveled F150 may be more attractive.
Cons Of Installing A Leveling Kit On An F150
1. Altered Suspension Geometry
Installing a leveling kit can change the geometry of your truck’s suspension, affecting the angles of components like the control arms, ball joints, and tie rods. These changes can lead to uneven tire wear and increased strain on certain parts. Over time, this added stress can result in premature wear and the need for more frequent maintenance or part replacement. It’s essential to monitor your suspension components after installing a leveling kit to ensure they remain in good condition.
2. Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Larger tires and the increased frontal height that come with a leveling kit can reduce your truck’s aerodynamic efficiency, leading to a drop in fuel economy. Bigger tires are also heavier, which places more strain on the engine and requires more fuel to move the vehicle. While the reduction in fuel efficiency may not be drastic for all drivers, those who rely on their F150 for long commutes or frequent driving may notice a difference at the pump.
3. Potential For A Rougher Ride
Although many leveling kits are designed to maintain factory ride quality, some truck owners report a slightly rougher ride after installation. This is often due to the change in suspension dynamics, particularly in the front of the vehicle. Depending on the type of leveling kit and tires used, the truck may feel stiffer or less comfortable over bumps and rough terrain. If maintaining a smooth, comfortable ride is a priority, it’s important to choose a high-quality leveling kit.
4. Increased Wear On Front Suspension Components
Raising the front of your truck places additional strain on the front suspension components, including the shocks, struts, ball joints, and control arms. The increased load and altered angles can lead to accelerated wear and tear, potentially shortening the lifespan of these parts. This is especially true for drivers who frequently use their truck for off-roading or hauling heavy loads. Regular inspection and maintenance of the front suspension are necessary to prevent long-term damage.
5. Impact On Handling And Steering
Modifying your truck’s suspension with a leveling kit can affect handling and steering, particularly during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. The altered center of gravity may make the truck feel less stable or responsive, especially at higher speeds. Drivers may need to adjust their driving style to account for these changes in handling, particularly when cornering or navigating tight spaces.
6. May Void Warranty
Installing a leveling kit can potentially void parts of your vehicle’s warranty, particularly if it’s deemed to affect the suspension or drivetrain. Manufacturers may not cover repairs related to suspension damage or other issues caused by the leveling kit. Before installing a leveling kit, it’s important to check with your dealership or manufacturer to understand how it might impact your warranty coverage.
7. Alignment Issues
After installing a leveling kit, your truck’s alignment may be thrown off, leading to uneven tire wear and handling issues. It’s important to have your truck professionally aligned after installing the kit to ensure that the suspension and tires are properly set. Even with an alignment, some trucks may require more frequent alignments to prevent long-term wear and tear.
8. Not As Comprehensive As A Full Lift Kit
While a leveling kit provides noticeable benefits in terms of appearance and performance, it does not offer the same level of functionality as a full suspension lift kit. For truck owners who need extreme off-road performance, more ground clearance, or additional towing capacity, a full lift kit may be a better choice. Leveling kits are ideal for moderate upgrades but may not be sufficient for those who require maximum off-road capability.
9. Increased Brake Wear
Installing larger tires after adding a leveling kit can increase the strain on your truck’s braking system. The added weight and size of the tires require more force to stop the vehicle, leading to faster wear on the brakes. In some cases, truck owners may need to upgrade their brake system to handle the increased load and ensure safe stopping distances.
10. Potential For Vibration Issues
Some truck owners report experiencing vibrations after installing a leveling kit, particularly at higher speeds. This is often due to changes in suspension geometry or wheel alignment. While proper installation and alignment can reduce the likelihood of vibrations, it’s a potential issue that some owners encounter. If you experience vibrations after installation, it’s important to have the truck inspected to ensure that everything is properly balanced.
Conclusion
Installing a leveling kit on your Ford F150 offers numerous advantages, from improving the truck’s aesthetics and off-road capabilities to allowing for larger tires and better handling of heavy loads. The increased ground clearance, enhanced balance, and improved visibility make it an attractive option for truck owners who want to upgrade their vehicle’s performance and appearance without committing to a full suspension lift.
However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential downsides, including changes in suspension geometry, increased wear on front suspension components, and the possibility of reduced fuel efficiency. Additionally, the installation of a leveling kit may void certain parts of your vehicle’s warranty, so it’s important to carefully consider these factors before proceeding.
By weighing the pros and cons outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision about whether a leveling kit is the right modification for your F150. Whether you’re looking to enhance your truck’s off-road performance, improve its appearance, or increase ground clearance, a leveling kit offers a practical and cost-effective solution.