Table of Contents
Installing a Rough Country 4-inch lift kit on your Ram 1500 can enhance your truck’s performance and appearance. This guide will walk you through the steps necessary to complete the installation successfully.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Rough Country 4-inch lift kit
- Socket set
- Torque wrench
- Jack and jack stands
- Spring compressor
- Wrenches
- Pry bar
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Preparation Steps
Before starting the installation, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials ready. It is essential to work in a safe environment, so make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves throughout the process.
1. Park Your Vehicle
Park your Ram 1500 on a flat, level surface. Ensure that the parking brake is engaged to prevent any movement during the installation.
2. Lift the Vehicle
Using a jack, lift the front of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Make sure the vehicle is stable before proceeding.
Removing the Stock Suspension
To install the lift kit, you must first remove the stock suspension components.
1. Remove the Front Wheels
Using a socket set, remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels. This will provide access to the suspension components.
2. Disconnect the Sway Bar Links
Using a wrench, disconnect the sway bar links from the control arms. This will allow for more movement during the installation process.
3. Remove the Shock Absorbers
Unbolt the top and bottom of the shock absorbers using a socket set. Carefully remove them from the vehicle.
4. Remove the Coil Springs
Using a spring compressor, safely compress the coil springs and remove them from the vehicle. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the spring compressor to ensure safety.
Installing the Rough Country Lift Kit
Now that the stock components are removed, you can begin installing the Rough Country lift kit.
1. Install the New Coil Springs
Position the new coil springs into place and carefully decompress them using the spring compressor. Ensure they are seated correctly before proceeding.
2. Install the New Shock Absorbers
Attach the new shock absorbers to the mounting points, securing them with the provided bolts. Make sure to tighten them to the manufacturer’s specifications using a torque wrench.
3. Reattach the Sway Bar Links
Reconnect the sway bar links to the control arms, ensuring they are tightened properly. This will help maintain stability and control.
Final Steps
After installing the lift kit, there are a few final steps to complete before putting your Ram 1500 back on the ground.
1. Reinstall the Front Wheels
Place the front wheels back onto the vehicle and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Once the vehicle is back on the ground, you will torque them to the manufacturer’s specifications.
2. Lower the Vehicle
Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack. Once it is stable, remove the jack stands.
3. Torque All Bolts
Using a torque wrench, go through and torque all bolts to the specifications provided in the Rough Country lift kit instructions. This is crucial for safety and performance.
Conclusion
Installing a Rough Country 4-inch lift kit on your Ram 1500 can be a rewarding project. By following this guide, you can ensure a successful installation that enhances your vehicle’s performance and aesthetics. Always remember to drive cautiously after modifications and have your alignment checked.