Table of Contents
Adjusting the suspension lift on your Ram 1500 can significantly enhance its cornering capabilities and reduce body roll. This article will guide you through the essential steps and considerations for making these adjustments effectively.
Understanding Suspension Lift
A suspension lift raises the height of your vehicle’s suspension system, allowing for increased ground clearance and improved off-road capability. However, it can also affect handling characteristics, particularly during cornering.
Benefits of Adjusting Your Suspension Lift
Adjusting your Ram 1500 suspension lift offers several advantages:
- Improved Cornering: A properly adjusted suspension reduces body roll, allowing for better handling during turns.
- Enhanced Stability: Lowering the center of gravity can improve vehicle stability, especially at higher speeds.
- Better Tire Contact: Adjustments can ensure that your tires maintain better contact with the road, improving traction.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before making any adjustments, gather the following tools and materials:
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket set
- Torque wrench
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Suspension adjustment kit (if necessary)
Steps to Adjust Your Suspension Lift
1. Prepare Your Vehicle
Start by parking your Ram 1500 on a flat surface and engaging the parking brake. This will ensure safety while you work on the suspension.
2. Jack Up the Vehicle
Use the jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle, depending on which suspension you are adjusting. Make sure to secure the vehicle with jack stands for safety.
3. Measure Current Suspension Height
Using a measuring tape, measure the height from the ground to the wheel arch. Record these measurements for comparison after adjustments.
4. Adjust Suspension Components
Depending on your suspension system, you may need to adjust the coilovers, shocks, or leaf springs. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific adjustment procedures.
5. Recheck Measurements
After making adjustments, remeasure the suspension height to ensure it meets your desired specifications. Aim for a balanced height between the front and rear.
6. Test Drive the Vehicle
Once adjustments are complete, take your Ram 1500 for a test drive. Pay attention to how the vehicle handles during cornering and if there is any noticeable reduction in body roll.
Common Issues and Solutions
While adjusting the suspension lift, you may encounter some common issues:
- Excessive Body Roll: If body roll persists, consider further lowering the lift or upgrading to performance shocks.
- Uneven Height: If one side is higher than the other, double-check your measurements and adjustments.
- Alignment Issues: After making suspension changes, always perform a wheel alignment to ensure proper handling.
Conclusion
Adjusting your Ram 1500 suspension lift can lead to improved cornering and reduced body roll, enhancing your driving experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve a balance between off-road capability and on-road performance.