Does your Dodge Ram 1500 4WD feel like it’s begging for a bit more attitude and capability? You’ve probably seen those beefier trucks rolling down the road, sitting taller and looking ready for anything. That’s often thanks to a 4-inch lift kit, and you’re not alone if you’re eyeing one for your own Ram.
But let’s be honest, wading through all the different brands and types of 4-inch lift kits can feel like a confusing maze. You want to upgrade your truck, but you don’t want to make a mistake. Will it fit right? Will it handle well? These are the questions that keep truck owners up at night when they’re looking to give their Ram that aggressive stance and off-road readiness. It’s a big decision, and getting it wrong can be frustrating and expensive.
That’s exactly why we’ve put together this guide. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll understand the key features to look for, the benefits a good 4-inch lift kit brings to your Dodge Ram 1500 4WD, and how to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Get ready to transform your truck!
Our Top 5 4 Inch Lift Kit For Dodge Ram 1500 4Wd Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 4 Inch Lift Kit For Dodge Ram 1500 4Wd Detailed Reviews
1. ReadyLift 69-1040 4.0” Front with 2.0” Rear SST Lift Kit 4″ – Dodge Ram 1500 4WD
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to give your Dodge Ram 1500 4WD a serious upgrade? The ReadyLift 69-1040 SST Lift Kit is here to help! This kit is designed for 2009-2017 Ram 1500 4WD trucks and gives your truck a cool, aggressive stance with a 4-inch lift in the front and a 2-inch lift in the rear. You’ll love how it looks and how much more capable your truck becomes.
What We Like:
- Provides a noticeable lift for improved ground clearance and a tougher look.
- Allows you to fit larger tires, up to 35×12.50, for even better off-road performance.
- Includes strong tubular upper control arms for a quality upgrade.
- Relatively straightforward installation for many DIYers.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit is not compatible with trucks that have the factory air suspension system.
- While it’s a good kit, some users might want even more lift options or different control arm designs.
This ReadyLift kit is a fantastic way to enhance your Ram 1500’s appearance and capability. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to lift their truck and fit bigger tires.
2. Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/ N3 Shocks for 2009-2018 Ram 1500 2WD – 30730
Rating: 9.0/10
Ready to give your 2009-2018 Ram 1500 2WD truck a serious upgrade? The Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit with N3 Shocks (part number 30730) is here to help. This kit offers a fantastic mix of looks and capability. You’ll get more ground clearance for tackling rougher paths and a tougher stance that turns heads. Plus, it helps level out your truck, making it look even better.
What We Like:
- Gives your Ram a killer look with improved ground clearance.
- The N3 Shock Absorbers provide a smooth ride, whether you’re on the highway or hitting trails.
- It levels the front of your truck to match the rear, creating a balanced appearance.
- Rough Country uses precise laser-cut materials for a perfect fit.
- The kit comes with a solid Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty from Rough Country.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might require some mechanical knowledge or professional help.
- While the ride is smooth, some users might prefer even softer shocks for pure comfort.
This Rough Country lift kit is a smart choice for Ram owners who want to enhance their truck’s performance and style. It’s built tough and designed to perform, making it a worthwhile investment for your ride.
3. 2-4″ Lift Front Shock Extender Kit Compatible with Dodge Ram 1500 4WD 4×4 2002-2005
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready to give your Dodge Ram 1500 a tougher stance and better off-road capability? This 2-4″ Lift Front Shock Extender Kit is designed specifically for your 2002-2005 4WD Ram 1500. It’s a smart way to achieve a lift without changing your entire suspension setup. This kit allows you to fit bigger tires, up to 35-inch by 12.50, making your truck look more aggressive and ready for adventure. Installation is straightforward, and it’s a great upgrade for any Ram owner looking for improved ground clearance.
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What We Like:
- Allows for a 2-4 inch front lift for a more aggressive look and better clearance.
- Enables fitment of larger tires, up to 35-inch x 12.50, for enhanced off-road performance.
- Specifically designed for 2002-2005 Dodge Ram 1500 4WD models.
- Comes with a 1-year guarantee for your peace of mind.
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What Could Be Improved:
- It’s important to double-check the product description for exact fitment details before buying.
- This kit is a strut relocation bracket extension, so it’s a specific type of lift component.
This kit is a solid choice for Ram 1500 owners wanting a modest lift and the ability to run larger tires. It’s an accessible upgrade that can make a noticeable difference in your truck’s appearance and capability.
4. Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3 Shocks for 2012-2018 Ram 1500 4WD – 33331
Rating: 9.2/10
Ready to give your 2012-2018 Ram 1500 4WD a rugged new look and better off-road capability? The Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit with N3 Shocks (model 33331) is designed to do just that. This kit lifts your truck and lets you fit bigger tires, improving its stance and letting you tackle more challenging trails. You get a tougher look without sacrificing a comfortable ride.
What We Like:
- Keeps your factory ride quality. You won’t feel every bump.
- The lift components are strong and built to last.
- They fix your suspension so your truck drives straight.
- You get more ground clearance to drive over obstacles.
- It makes the front of your truck sit level with the back.
- This creates a cool, aggressive look.
- It allows you to install up to 35-inch tires.
- Bigger tires help with off-road performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might take some time and effort.
- While the ride is good, some might want an even softer feel.
This Rough Country lift kit offers a fantastic balance of improved looks and performance for your Ram 1500. It’s a solid upgrade for anyone wanting to take their truck’s capabilities to the next level.
5. dynofit 3″ Front and 2″ Rear Leveling Lift Kit for Ram 1500 4WD AWD(Coil Spring)
Rating: 9.1/10
Want to give your Dodge Ram 1500 a tougher look and better clearance for bigger tires? The dynofit 3″ Front and 2″ Rear Leveling Lift Kit is here to help. This kit is designed to lift the front of your truck by 3 inches and the rear by 2 inches, giving it a more aggressive stance and making it ready for adventure.
What We Like:
- Built Tough: Made from strong 6061-T6 aluminum, these spacers are built to last. The special black coating protects against rust and looks great.
- Easier Ride: It levels out your truck, making the ride smoother and more comfortable, even on bumpy roads.
- More Tire Room: Get the extra space you need to fit larger tires and wheels, which improves your truck’s look and capability.
- Simple to Install: You don’t need to take apart your whole suspension. It’s a bolt-on job that’s pretty straightforward.
- Brand Support: dynofit offers a 2-year warranty and a 30-day refund, so you can buy with confidence.
What Could Be Improved:
- Compatibility Limits: This kit won’t work for Ram 1500 models with air suspension, Mega Cabs, or TRX models. It also has specific limitations for 2WD models.
- Alignment Needed: You’ll need to get your truck’s alignment checked after installation, especially if you add new wheels and tires.
This dynofit leveling kit is a solid option for Ram 1500 owners looking for an easy way to upgrade their truck’s appearance and capability. Just be sure to check compatibility before you buy.
Level Up Your Ram 1500: A 4-Inch Lift Kit Buying Guide
So, you’ve got a Dodge Ram 1500 4WD and you’re dreaming of a tougher stance and better off-road capability. A 4-inch lift kit is a great way to achieve that! It gives your truck a more aggressive look and clears space for bigger tires. Let’s dive into what you need to know before you buy.
Why a 4-Inch Lift Kit?
A 4-inch lift is a popular choice for Ram 1500 owners. It’s high enough to fit larger tires, usually up to 35 inches, without rubbing. This means better ground clearance for tackling rough terrain. It also improves your truck’s appearance, giving it that commanding presence.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing your 4-inch lift kit, keep these important features in mind:
- Suspension Type: Most kits use either a drop bracket system or strut spacers. Drop bracket systems are generally more robust and maintain better suspension geometry, which can lead to a smoother ride and better handling. Strut spacers are simpler and often less expensive but can sometimes affect ride quality.
- Lift Height Consistency: Make sure the kit actually provides a 4-inch lift on all corners, or at least as advertised. Some kits might lift the front more than the rear, which is common but good to know.
- Included Components: A good kit will include everything you need for the installation. This often means new control arms, sway bar links, brake line brackets, and sometimes even differential drop brackets. Check the list carefully to see what’s included.
- Shocks and Struts: Some kits come with new shocks and struts, while others expect you to reuse your factory ones. Upgraded shocks can significantly improve ride quality and performance, especially off-road.
- Alignment Correction: A lift can throw off your truck’s alignment. Look for kits that include components to help correct this, like adjustable ball joints or corrected steering knuckles.
Important Materials
The materials used in a lift kit directly affect its strength and longevity.
- Steel: Most lift kit components are made from high-strength steel. Look for mild steel that has been properly welded and coated to prevent rust.
- Powder Coating: A good powder coat finish protects the steel from the elements. It’s tougher than paint and resists chipping and scratching.
- Urethane or Rubber Bushings: These are used in control arms and other pivot points. They help absorb vibrations and provide a smoother ride. Higher quality bushings last longer and perform better.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things make a big difference in how good a lift kit is.
- Design and Engineering: Kits designed by reputable companies with experience in suspension know how to maintain good geometry. This means your truck will handle well and the suspension will work as it should. A poorly designed kit can lead to poor ride quality or even damage to other parts of your truck.
- Manufacturing Precision: Exactly how well the parts are made matters. Precise manufacturing ensures everything fits together correctly and works as intended.
- Included Hardware: Using strong, high-quality bolts and nuts is essential. Cheap hardware can rust or break, compromising the safety and integrity of the lift.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with well-known brands that have a good track record. They usually stand behind their products and have better customer support if you run into issues.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your lifted Ram? This guides your choice.
- Daily Driving: If your truck is mostly for getting around town, a kit that maintains a comfortable ride is key. Kits with good shocks and proper geometry will feel closer to stock.
- Off-Roading: For tackling trails, you’ll want a kit that offers maximum clearance and durability. Look for kits with robust components and features that protect your drivetrain, like differential drop brackets.
- Towing and Hauling: Lifting your truck can affect its towing capacity and how it handles heavy loads. Some kits are designed to maintain good towing performance, while others might require adjustments. Check the kit’s specifications.
- Tire Size: Remember that a 4-inch lift typically allows for 35-inch tires. If you plan on going even bigger, you might need a taller lift or additional modifications.
Choosing the right 4-inch lift kit will transform your Ram 1500. Do your research, consider your needs, and you’ll be ready to hit the road (or trail) in style!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will a 4-inch lift kit affect my truck’s gas mileage?
A: Yes, lifting your truck and adding larger tires usually reduces gas mileage. Larger tires have more rolling resistance, and the lifted stance can increase aerodynamic drag.
Q: Do I need to get an alignment after installing a lift kit?
A: Absolutely. A lift kit changes your suspension angles, so an alignment is crucial to ensure proper tire wear and safe handling.
Q: Can I install a 4-inch lift kit myself?
A: It’s a complex job that requires specialized tools and mechanical knowledge. If you’re not experienced with suspension work, it’s best to have a professional install it.
Q: What is the difference between a spacer lift and a drop bracket lift?
A: Spacer lifts add spacers to your existing suspension components. Drop bracket lifts replace key suspension parts with new, lower-mounted ones to achieve the lift while correcting suspension geometry.
Q: What is the maximum tire size I can fit with a 4-inch lift?
A: Typically, you can fit 35-inch tires with a 4-inch lift on a Ram 1500. However, some fender trimming or adjustments might still be needed depending on the tire’s width and tread pattern.
Q: Will a lift kit affect my truck’s turning radius?
A: Yes, a lift kit, especially when combined with larger tires, can sometimes reduce your truck’s turning radius, meaning you might not be able to turn the steering wheel as sharply.
Q: Do I need to upgrade my shocks and struts?
A: It’s not always required, but upgrading shocks and struts can greatly improve ride quality and off-road performance, especially if you plan on aggressive driving.
Q: How long does a lift kit typically last?
A: With proper installation and maintenance, a quality lift kit can last for many years and tens of thousands of miles. Bushings and ball joints might need replacement sooner than other components.
Q: Will a lift kit affect my truck’s resale value?
A: It can go both ways. A professionally installed, reputable lift kit can increase appeal for buyers looking for that modification. However, a poorly done lift or an extreme setup might decrease value for some buyers.
Q: Are there any maintenance requirements for a lifted truck?
A: Yes, you’ll want to regularly inspect your suspension components, check for loose bolts, and ensure your alignment remains correct. Greasing certain pivot points might also be necessary.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.