Introduction to Your Tundra’s Front Suspension Upgrade

Leveling the stance of a Toyota Tundra is one of the most popular modifications among truck enthusiasts. A Skyjacker leveling kit raises the front end to match the rear, eliminating the factory rake while improving clearance for larger tires and light off-road trails. This guide delivers a thorough, shop-quality walkthrough for installing a Skyjacker spacer-style leveling kit on a 2007–2021 Toyota Tundra (2WD or 4WD), with special attention to torque values, alignment concerns, and suspension geometry preservation. Before you turn a wrench, understand that this is a moderate DIY job requiring mechanical familiarity — proceed methodically and always prioritize safety.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Prepare a clean, well-lit workspace. Gather the following items before lifting the truck. Having everything at hand prevents frustrating trips to the toolbox.

  • Skyjacker leveling kit (part number specific to your Tundra’s year and drivetrain — confirm fitment)
  • Floor jack (3‑ton minimum) and two heavy‑duty jack stands
  • Full socket set (metric: 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm, 19mm, 21mm, 22mm)
  • Combination wrench set (same sizes)
  • Torque wrench (½‑inch drive, capable of 100–200 ft·lbs)
  • Breaker bar or impact gun (recommended for stubborn bolts)
  • Pry bar or trim tool
  • Penetrating oil (e.g., PB Blaster)
  • Shop manual or factory service information for your Tundra
  • Safety glasses and mechanic’s gloves

Preparation: Safety and Vehicle Setup

Park on Level Ground and Disconnect the Battery (Optional but Smart)

Chock the rear wheels. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to avoid accidental deployment of the airbag system or electrical shorts while working near the strut towers. Let the engine cool completely if it has been running.

Measure Before You Lift

Record the current fender‑to‑ground measurement at the center of each wheel arch (front and rear). This will help you verify final lift height and confirm the kit achieved the intended level. Write the numbers down.

Step 1: Lift and Secure the Front End

Position the jack under the front crossmember or frame rail (consult your manual). Raise the truck until the front wheels are just off the ground, then place jack stands under the factory lift points — never the lower control arms. Lower the vehicle onto the stands. Shake the truck to confirm stability.

Safety note: Do not rely solely on the jack. Always use stands rated for the Tundra’s weight (around 3,000 lbs front axle).

Step 2: Remove the Front Wheels

Using a socket and breaker bar, break the lug nuts loose while the wheel is still on the ground (do not remove them completely). After the truck is elevated, remove the nuts and pull the wheels off. Place them under the frame as an extra safety barrier.

Step 3: Disconnect the Strut Assembly

Upper Strut Mount Nuts

Inside the engine bay, locate the three nuts that secure the top of the strut to the strut tower. Clean any debris from the area. Remove these nuts with a deep socket and wrench — the studs may spin; hold them with another wrench if needed. Set the nuts aside.

Lower Strut-to‑Knuckle Bolts

Working from the wheel well, identify the two large bolts (typically 19mm or 21mm) that clamp the strut fork to the steering knuckle. Apply penetrating oil and let it soak. Use a breaker bar to break them free — they are torqued high. Remove the bolts completely. You may need to pry the knuckle slightly outward to free the strut fork.

Remove the Sway Bar Connection

If your Tundra has a front sway bar end link attached to the strut, disconnect it using a 14mm or 17mm socket. This will allow the strut to drop freely. Hold the stud with an Allen key if it spins.

Lower the Control Arm

Using a jack under the lower control arm (near the ball joint), slightly raise it to release tension. Then slowly lower it to create clearance. Remove the strut assembly from the vehicle. Be mindful of the CV axle — do not overextend it. If necessary, use a tie‑rod separator to pop the knuckle loose.

Step 4: Install the Skyjacker Leveling Spacer

Disassemble the Strut (Spring Compression Required)

Critical safety warning: The coil spring is under extreme tension. Do not attempt to remove the top nut without a proper spring compressor. Use a wall‑mounted or portable spring compressor to compress the spring enough to relieve all tension from the upper strut mount. If you are not experienced with spring compressors, consider having a shop install the spacer on your strut.

  1. Mark the orientation of the top mount relative to the spring perch (some kits require specific alignment).
  2. Compress the spring evenly until the top plate is loose.
  3. Remove the center nut (the one holding the piston rod).
  4. Remove the top mount, spring seat, and rubber isolator.
  5. Place the Skyjacker spacer on top of the strut assembly, aligning the holes with the studs.
  6. Reassemble in reverse: rubber isolator, spring seat, top mount, then a new lock nut (if supplied).
  7. Tighten the center nut to the manufacturer’s torque spec (typically 20–30 ft·lbs, but verify).
  8. Slowly release the spring compressor and check that the spacer is seated flat.

Step 5: Reinstall the Strut Assembly

Position the assembled strut back into the truck. Guide the top studs through the strut tower opening. Use a jack under the lower control arm to raise the strut fork into alignment with the knuckle. Reinstall the two lower bolts and tighten snugly. Reattach the sway bar end link. Install the three top nuts and torque them to the factory specification (typically 29–35 ft·lbs).

Step 6: Torque All Fasteners to Spec

Use the torque wrench on every critical fastener. Below are representative values for a 2007–2021 Tundra — always confirm with your service manual or the Skyjacker instruction sheet.

  • Upper strut mount nuts: 29 ft·lbs (39 N·m)
  • Lower strut-to‑knuckle bolts: 158 ft·lbs (214 N·m)
  • Sway bar end link nuts: 34 ft·lbs (46 N·m)
  • Lug nuts: 84 ft·lbs (114 N·m) — tighten in a star pattern

Step 7: Reinstall Wheels and Lower the Truck

Mount the front wheels, hand‑tighten lug nuts, then torque to spec. Remove the jack stands and carefully lower the truck to the ground. Bounce the front bumper a few times to settle the suspension.

Step 8: Perform Final Checks and Test Drive

Inspect for Clearance and Leaks

Turn the steering wheel lock‑to‑lock. Listen for rubbing of tires against the strut, inner fender, or sway bar. Check that all hardware is tight and that brake lines and ABS wires are not stretched or pinched.

Check Headlight Aim

Raising the front will tilt the headlights upward. Adjust them using the factory adjusters to avoid blinding oncoming traffic. Most Tundras have a vertical adjustment screw accessible from the top of the headlight housing.

Test Drive and Alignment

Take the truck for a short, low‑speed drive on a smooth road. Listen for clunks or rattles. A noticeable vibration or pulling indicates a loose bolt or an alignment issue. After the kit settles (typically 100 miles), schedule a professional alignment. Leveling kits changes caster, camber, and toe. Many Tundras require adjustable upper control arms to bring camber back into spec — if you see excessive positive camber, consider upgrading arms.

Post‑Installation Tips and Maintenance

  • Re‑torque after 500 miles: All suspension bolts should be checked and re‑torqued after the hardware seats and the springs settle.
  • Monitor CV axle angles: A 2‑inch front lift on a Tundra can stress the CV joints. If you hear clicking while turning, consider diff drops or aftermarket axles.
  • Inspect tire wear: Uneven wear patterns often indicate misalignment. Rotate tires every 5,000 miles.
  • Shock upgrade: Spacer‑style leveling kits retain factory shocks, which may bottom out over harsh bumps. Many owners upgrade to Bilstein 5100s for better damping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a leveling kit void my Tundra’s warranty?

Aftermarket suspension parts do not automatically void the entire vehicle warranty, but a dealer may deny a claim if the modification directly caused the failure (e.g., a damaged CV axle). Keep all stock parts and consider discussing with your service advisor before installation.

Can I fit 35‑inch tires with only a leveling kit?

Most Tundras require at least a 3‑inch lift to clear 35s without rubbing. A 2‑inch level can usually accommodate up to 33‑inch tires, depending on wheel offset. Always test fit before purchasing.

Do I need an alignment after installing the kit?

Absolutely. Even a small lift alters alignment angles. Driving without a proper alignment will cause rapid tire wear, poor handling, and reduced safety. Most shops charge $80–$120 for a front‑end alignment.

External Resources and References

Final Thoughts

Installing a Skyjacker leveling kit on your Toyota Tundra is a rewarding project that dramatically improves the truck’s aggressive stance and off‑road presence. By following this expanded guide — with emphasis on spring safety, proper torque, and post‑installation alignment — you are set up for a durable, trouble‑free result. Always refer to the instruction sheet that comes with your specific kit and your Tundra’s service manual for the most precise data. Drive confidently knowing you’ve done the job right.