GMC Sierra 1500 2 Inch Leveling Kit: Installation Guide
By Body Armor 4x4 | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to install a 2-inch leveling kit on your GMC Sierra 1500 with our step-by-step guide, including tips for a smooth ride and proper alignment.
Quick Answer
Install a 2-inch front leveling kit on your GMC Sierra 1500 to raise the front end and match the rear, giving your truck a more aggressive stance and room for larger tires. The process is bolt-on and can be completed in a few hours with basic tools.
Why Level Your Sierra?
A leveling kit raises the front of your truck to match the rear, eliminating the factory rake. This not only improves the look but also provides extra clearance for larger wheels and tires, which can enhance off-road capability and give your Sierra a more commanding presence on the road.
The 2-inch leveling kit from Body Armor 4x4 is a bolt-on solution that maintains stock ride quality. It's a popular choice for truck owners who want the benefits of a lift without the complexity or cost of a full suspension overhaul.
Trade-Offs to Consider
While a leveling kit is a great upgrade, it's important to note that it only raises the front. This means the rear remains at stock height, which can affect load-carrying characteristics. If you frequently tow or haul heavy loads, the rear may sit lower than the front when loaded, so plan accordingly.
Also, while the kit is designed to maintain stock ride quality, any suspension modification can slightly alter handling. An alignment after installation is essential to ensure even tire wear and proper steering response.
Installation Steps
- Prepare the Truck: Park on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Loosen the front lug nuts slightly before jacking up the truck. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack; always use jack stands.
- Remove Front Wheels: Jack up the front of the truck and secure it with jack stands. Remove the front wheels to access the suspension components. Keep the lug nuts in a safe place to avoid losing them.
- Disconnect Sway Bar Links: Use a wrench to disconnect the sway bar end links from the lower control arms. This allows the suspension to droop for easier access. Note the orientation of the links before removal to ensure proper reinstallation.
- Compress the Coil Spring: Use a coil spring compressor to safely compress the front coil spring. This is critical to relieve tension before removing the strut assembly. Never attempt to remove the strut without compressing the spring; it can release with dangerous force.
- Remove the Strut Assembly: Remove the upper strut mount nuts and the lower strut bolts. Carefully pull the strut assembly out of the vehicle. Support the assembly with one hand while removing the last bolt to prevent it from falling.
- Install the Leveling Kit: Place the leveling spacer on top of the strut assembly, aligning the holes with the studs. Secure it with the provided hardware. Double-check that the spacer is seated evenly to avoid binding or noise.
- Reinstall the Strut and Reconnect Components: Reinstall the strut assembly, tighten the lower bolts and upper nuts to spec, and reconnect the sway bar links. Reinstall the wheels and lower the truck. Torque all fasteners to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure safety and prevent premature wear.
Product Facts
- 2007-2026 GMC/CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500/SIERRA 1500/AVALANCHE/SUV 2WD/4WD 2 IN: Bolt-on installation with a durable powder coat finish You can install it in your driveway with basic hand tools, and the powder coat resists rust and corrosion for long-lasting performance.
2007-2026 GMC/CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500/SIERRA 1500/AVALANCHE/SUV 2WD/4WD 2 IN - 2007-2026 GMC/CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500/SIERRA 1500/AVALANCHE/SUV 2WD/4WD 2 IN: Stock ride quality and quickly return to stock The kit preserves the factory ride comfort, and if you ever want to revert to stock, removal is straightforward without cutting or welding.
- 2007-2026 GMC/CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500/SIERRA 1500/AVALANCHE/SUV 2WD/4WD 2 IN: Fits larger wheels and tires The 2-inch front lift gives you extra clearance to mount bigger tires, improving off-road capability and giving your truck a more aggressive stance.
