Leveling a 2013 Ram 1500 is one of the most effective chassis upgrades you can make for both appearance and function. The factory rake—higher in the rear, lower in the front—works for load carrying but leaves the truck looking nose-down when unloaded. A proper leveling kit corrects that stance, improves ground clearance for larger tires, and maintains ride quality when components are chosen carefully. The catch is that not all kits deliver the same geometry, material quality, or long-term durability, and picking the wrong one can introduce vibration, poor alignment range, or accelerated wear on CV joints and ball joints.
I’m Amir — the founder and writer behind Four Wheel Ask. I’ve spent years analyzing suspension geometry, material specifications, and aggregated owner feedback across hundreds of aftermarket chassis components to identify what actually delivers lasting performance for half-ton Rams.
After studying over 2,000 owner reviews and comparing material specs across every major spacer and strut option, this guide identifies the definitive best 2013 ram 1500 leveling kit for your specific build.
How To Choose The Best 2013 Ram 1500 Leveling Kit
Choosing a leveling kit for a 2013 Ram 1500 comes down to three core factors: the lift method, the material quality, and how the kit interacts with the rest of your suspension. A spacer that sits on top of the strut assembly is the most common and cost-effective approach, but it changes the suspension geometry at full droop and compression. A full loaded-strut replacement preserves factory damping characteristics and often includes valving tuned for the lifted ride height. Understanding these trade-offs helps you match the kit to your actual driving conditions rather than just chasing the tallest lift.
Spacer Thickness vs. Actual Lift Height
One of the most misunderstood aspects of leveling kits is that the spacer thickness does not equal the lift height. Because of the suspension’s motion ratio, a spacer that measures roughly 1 inch thick typically lifts the front about 1.5 inches. The ratio is not linear across all kits, so always verify the advertised lift height rather than measuring the spacer itself. Manufacturers state the expected lift, and owner reports confirm that a 2-inch advertised kit usually delivers between 1.8 and 2.2 inches of actual front-end rise depending on the trim level and existing spring sag.
Material and Hardware Quality
The best leveling kits use 6061-T6 billet aluminum, CNC-machined to precise tolerances, with anodized or powder-coated surfaces for corrosion resistance. Avoid cast aluminum or thin steel spacers that can deform under load. Equally important are the studs and fasteners — hardened 12.9-grade studs resist stretching and shearing far better than the 8.8-grade hardware found in budget kits. A kit with pressed-in studs rather than loose bolts reduces installation time and ensures concentric alignment with the strut mounting holes.
Control Arm and Alignment Considerations
Lifting the front of a 2013 Ram 1500 by 2 inches or more changes the upper control arm angle, which can push the ball joint past its designed range of motion. Kits that include tubular aftermarket upper control arms restore proper ball joint geometry and often provide additional caster adjustment for better alignment. If you plan to run 33-inch or larger tires, a kit with upgraded control arms is worth the investment to maintain tire clearance and prevent premature ball joint wear. Even with a simple spacer kit, a professional alignment after installation is non-negotiable.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MotoFab DR-2 | Spacer Kit | Easy DIY Leveling | 2″ Lift, Billet Aluminum, USA Made | Amazon |
| Rough Country N3 | Loaded Strut | Complete Strut Upgrade | 2.5″ Lift, Loaded Strut, N3 Damping | Amazon |
| ReadyLift 66-1921 | Complete Kit | Engineered Geometry | 2″ Lift, Includes UCA, CNC Billet | Amazon |
| ReadyLift 69-1935 | Lift Kit | Maximum Lift | 3.5″ Lift, HD Control Arms | Amazon |
| Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 | Air Spring | Towing Stability | 5,000lb Capacity, Air Adjustable | Amazon |
| WULF 1.5″ | Steel Spacer | Conservative Stance | 1.5″ Lift, Steel Fabricated, Powder Coated | Amazon |
| MZS 3/2 | Spacer Kit | Reliable Mid-Range | 3″ Front / 2″ Rear, Billet Aluminum | Amazon |
| PROEZE 3/2 | Spacer Kit | Budget 3-Inch Lift | 3″ Front / 2″ Rear, 6061-T6 Alloy | Amazon |
| FLYCLE 3/2 | Spacer Kit | Affordable Leveling | 3″ Front / 2″ Rear, 6061-T6 Alloy | Amazon |
| AA Ignition 3/2 | Spacer Kit | Entry Level Kit | 3″ Front / 2″ Rear, Forged Aluminum | Amazon |
| Richeer 3″ | Spacer Kit | Lowest Cost Option | 3″ Front Only, Forged 6061-T6 | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. MotoFab DR-2 2″ Front Leveling Lift Kit
The MotoFab DR-2 consistently earns top marks from Ram 1500 owners for its straightforward top-strut design and genuine billet aluminum construction. Machined in the USA and powder-coated black, this spacer mounts above the strut assembly, which means no spring compressor is required for installation. The kit raises the front by a true 2 inches, effectively eliminating the factory rake without introducing the harshness that thicker spacers often create. Owner reports indicate a 1.5 to 2-hour install time with basic hand tools, and the ride quality remains very close to stock for daily driving.
With over 800 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the DR-2 has one of the highest satisfaction rates in the leveling kit category. Owners consistently note that the truck sits perfectly level after installation and that the powder-coated finish resists corrosion well. The included hardware uses quality fasteners, though some owners recommend adding blue threadlocker to the Allen bolts for extra peace of mind. A few users noted that the instructions are minimal, but the installation process is intuitive enough for anyone with moderate mechanical experience.
MotoFab backs this kit with a lifetime warranty, which adds significant confidence given the price point. The 2-inch lift pairs well with 33-inch tires without requiring trimming or aftermarket control arms, making it an ideal choice for owners who want a functional, reliable leveling solution without overcomplicating the suspension. The only trade-off is the modest lift height — if you need more than 2 inches to clear larger tires or want a more aggressive stance, a taller kit may better suit your goals.
What works
- Genuine billet aluminum with powder-coated finish resists corrosion and holds alignment
- Top-strut design eliminates the need for spring compression tools during installation
- Lifetime warranty from a US-based manufacturer adds long-term confidence
- Ride quality remains close to stock; no noticeable increase in harshness
What doesn’t
- Instructions are sparse and assume prior mechanical knowledge
- 2-inch lift may not provide enough clearance for 35-inch tires without additional modifications
2. Rough Country N3 Leveling Struts
Rough Country’s N3 Leveling Struts represent a fundamentally different approach to leveling the 2013 Ram 1500. Instead of adding a spacer to the factory strut, these are fully assembled loaded struts with a 1 3/8-inch bore, nitrogen gas charging, and application-specific valving. The kit delivers a 2.5-inch front lift using a preloaded coil spring, which means the strut assembly is engineered from the ground up for the lifted ride height rather than adapting the stock geometry. Out of the box, these struts bolt in without any disassembly of the factory spring or strut.
The Infinitely Variable Damping technology is the standout feature here — it adjusts in real time to road conditions, providing a controlled ride that owners consistently describe as similar to or better than factory. The nitrogen gas charging prevents aeration and fade during extended off-road use, and the low-friction shock oil maintains consistent damping across temperature ranges. Several owner reports note that the front end gained a full 4 inches of additional clearance at the fender after installation, and the truck settled into its final ride height after roughly 700 miles of driving.
Installation time averages 2 to 4 hours with basic hand tools, and the struts come with a manufacturer warranty that covers defects. This kit is designed for 4WD models without air suspension, and it is not compatible with additional strut spacers. The premium price reflects the complete engineering package — you are paying for valving, spring rates, and damping precision that a simple spacer cannot match. For owners who prioritize ride quality and off-road capability over minimum cost, this is the most well-rounded solution available.
What works
- Fully assembled loaded struts eliminate the need for spring compression or strut disassembly
- Infinitely Variable Damping adjusts in real time for a smooth, controlled ride across terrains
- Large 1 3/8-inch bore and nitrogen charging provide consistent damping and fade resistance
- Preloaded coil spring engineered specifically for the 2.5-inch lifted ride height
What doesn’t
- Not compatible with strut spacers or trucks equipped with factory air suspension
- Premium price point significantly higher than basic spacer kits
3. ReadyLift 66-1921 2″ Leveling Kit with Tubular Upper Control Arms
The ReadyLift 66-1921 stands apart from conventional spacer kits by including purpose-designed tubular upper control arms alongside the front strut spacers. This matters because lifting the front of a Ram 1500 by 2 inches pushes the factory upper ball joint toward the edge of its operating range, which can accelerate wear and limit alignment adjustment. The included control arms restore proper ball joint geometry and provide additional caster adjustment, allowing alignment technicians to dial in the suspension correctly. The spacers themselves are CNC-machined from billet aluminum with a clean, corrosion-resistant finish.
Owners who have installed this kit on 2019 and newer Ram 1500 models report that the ride quality remains effectively unchanged from stock, and the alignment process is straightforward because the adjustable control arms provide enough range to bring camber and caster back into factory specifications. The tubular control arms are significantly more robust than the factory stamped-steel units, and several owners noted that the ball joint boots are greaseable, which extends service life. Installation time averages around 2 hours for mechanically experienced owners, and the instructions are well-regarded for their clarity.
This kit is not designed for trucks with factory air suspension, and it specifically fits 2019-2020 Ram 1500 models including the Rebel trim. The engineered approach — matching the spacer lift with complementary control arm geometry — makes this a compelling choice for owners who plan to keep their truck long-term and want to avoid premature front-end wear. The higher cost reflects the additional hardware and engineering, but for those who value proper geometry over minimum spend, the 66-1921 delivers a complete, well-integrated solution.
What works
- Tubular upper control arms restore ball joint geometry and expand alignment adjustment range
- CNC-machined billet aluminum spacers with precision fit and corrosion-resistant finish
- Greaseable ball joints on the replacement control arms extend service life
- Ride quality remains effectively unchanged from factory specifications
What doesn’t
- Fitment is limited to specific Ram 1500 model years; always verify compatibility before purchase
- Not compatible with air suspension or factory pre-leveled trucks
4. ReadyLift 69-1935 3.5″ SST Lift Kit
For owners who want more than a simple level and are building toward a full lift, the ReadyLift 69-1935 SST kit delivers 3.5 inches of front lift with heavy-duty fabricated steel rear spacers and upgraded front control arms. This is a comprehensive suspension system rather than a basic leveling kit, designed to accommodate 35-inch tires with minimal trimming. The front spacers are CNC-machined billet aluminum, while the rear uses fabricated steel for durability under load. The kit includes heavy-duty control arms that correct ball joint angles at the increased ride height and provide proper alignment range.
Owner feedback across multiple model years indicates that the ride quality on this kit is surprisingly good for a 3.5-inch lift, with several owners describing it as near factory. The installation is a true bolt-on affair with no cutting or welding required, and most owners report completing the job in 4 to 6 hours with standard tools. The alignment process is straightforward, with camber, caster, and toe all adjustable back into factory specifications thanks to the included control arms. The kit is designed for 2019 Ram 1500 models and is not compatible with air suspension or factory pre-leveled trucks.
The 69-1935 occupies a specific niche: it is for the owner who knows they want a substantial lift with proper supporting components rather than stacking spacers and risking poor geometry. The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the kit, which includes everything needed to achieve a clean, reliable 3.5-inch front lift with proper alignment capability. Owners who have paired this kit with 35×11.5-inch tires report no rubbing on the control arms, and the aggressive stance is matched by genuine functional improvement in ground clearance.
What works
- Comprehensive 3.5-inch lift with heavy-duty control arms for proper alignment and ball joint geometry
- CNC-machined billet aluminum front spacers with fabricated steel rear spacers for durability
- Bolt-on installation requires no cutting, welding, or permanent modifications to the chassis
- Accommodates 35-inch tires with minimal trimming and no control arm rubbing
What doesn’t
- Not compatible with air suspension or factory pre-leveled/off-road package trucks
- Premium cost positions this as a significant investment rather than an entry-level upgrade
5. Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Air Spring Kit
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 takes a completely different approach to leveling by using adjustable air springs that mount inside the rear coil springs. Rather than lifting the front to match the rear, this system levels the vehicle by supporting the rear under load, making it ideal for owners who tow trailers, haul heavy cargo, or carry slide-in campers. The kit provides up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling capacity and can be adjusted from 5 to 100 psi depending on the weight being carried. When unloaded, the air springs can be run at low pressure to maintain near-stock ride quality.
Owner reports consistently highlight the transformation in towing behavior — the system eliminates sag, reduces trailer sway, and keeps the headlights aimed properly regardless of load. Installation is more involved than a simple spacer kit, with owners reporting 4 to 5 hours on a lift, but the included instructions are detailed and the hardware is complete. Some owners experienced minor air leaks from the brass fittings initially, but these were resolved by tightening or reapplying sealant. The ride quality at highway pressures with a heavy trailer is described as stable and controlled, with none of the porpoising associated with overloaded leaf springs.
This kit is designed for 2009-2024 Ram 1500 models and comes with a lifetime warranty and a 60-day ride satisfaction guarantee. It is a specialized solution that addresses a specific pain point — load-induced sag — rather than cosmetic leveling. For owners who regularly tow or haul, the LoadLifter 5000 provides a level of control and adjustability that fixed spacer kits cannot match. The trade-off is the more complex installation and the need to manage air pressure based on load conditions.
What works
- Adjustable air springs provide up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling capacity for towing and hauling
- Eliminates rear sag and trailer sway while keeping headlight aim correct under load
- Lifetime warranty with 60-day ride satisfaction guarantee adds significant purchase confidence
- Low pressure operation when unloaded maintains near-factory ride quality
What doesn’t
- Installation is more involved than fixed spacer kits; expect 4-5 hours with mechanical experience
- Requires periodic pressure adjustment based on load conditions for optimal performance
6. WULF 1.5″ Front Leveling Lift Kit
The WULF 1.5-inch leveling kit offers a conservative but intentional stance correction for owners who want to minimize the factory rake without introducing the geometry challenges that come with taller lifts. The strut spacers are fabricated from alloy steel with a powder-coated finish, and the welds receive consistent praise in owner reviews for their quality and durability. The 1.5-inch lift is enough to bring the front of the truck level with the rear on most 4WD models while maintaining a slight rake for those who occasionally tow and want to avoid a nose-high stance under load.
Owner feedback highlights the build quality of the spacers — the powder coating is uniform, the pressed-in threaded studs are machined precisely, and the welding is clean with no slag or weak points. Installation takes approximately 2 hours and requires removing the axle nut and sway bar links, which is standard for this type of kit. Several owners noted that the actual spacer thickness measures roughly 1 inch, which aligns with the expected motion ratio to achieve the advertised 1.5 inches of lift. The included hardware is complete, and the kit comes with a lifetime warranty from WULF Suspensions.
The conservative lift height makes this kit an excellent choice for owners who run stock or near-stock tire sizes and want to avoid the added strain on CV axles and ball joints that comes with taller lifts. It also pairs well with minimal aftermarket wheels without requiring trimming or aggressive offset. The steel construction is heavier than aluminum alternatives but offers exceptional durability for those who work their trucks hard. For the owner who values subtle, functional improvement over dramatic visual change, the WULF 1.5-inch kit delivers exactly what it promises.
What works
- Conservative 1.5-inch lift maintains usable rake for towing while improving stance significantly
- Steel fabrication with quality welding and powder coating provides exceptional durability
- Pressed-in threaded studs ensure concentric alignment and simplify installation
- Lifetime warranty from WULF Suspensions adds long-term confidence
What doesn’t
- Steel construction is heavier than billet aluminum alternatives
- 1.5-inch lift may not provide enough clearance for larger aftermarket tire upgrades
7. MZS 3″ Front + 2″ Rear Leveling Kit
The MZS leveling kit combines 3-inch front strut spacers with 2-inch rear coil spring spacers to provide a balanced lift that levels the truck while also increasing overall ground clearance. Unlike front-only leveling kits that simply eliminate the rake, this system lifts both ends of the truck, which can be beneficial for owners who want a taller overall stance without the nose-high look that sometimes occurs with aggressive front-only lifts. The spacers are CNC-machined from billet aluminum with a corrosion-resistant finish, and the kit fits 2009-2026 Ram 1500 4WD models.
Owner feedback indicates a straightforward bolt-on installation that takes between 1.5 and 3.5 hours depending on experience level. Several owners noted that the first side takes significantly longer than the second as you learn the process. The ride quality change is noticeable on rough roads — as with any spacer lift, the compressed suspension travel transmits more impact — but owners generally consider it acceptable given the visual improvement. A few owners specifically confirmed that this kit fits the Ram Rebel trim despite some listings stating otherwise, though official compatibility excludes Rebel, TRX, and air suspension models.
The 3-inch front lift allows for 33-inch tires with minimal rubbing, and some owners have successfully fitted 35-inch tires with additional trimming and wheel offset adjustments. The 2-inch rear spacer prevents the truck from sitting nose-high after the front lift, maintaining a level stance. The hardware quality is consistent with other mid-range kits, and the manufacturer provides a standard warranty against defects. For owners who want a complete front-and-rear lift rather than a simple level, this kit offers solid value for the combined lift height.
What works
- Includes both front and rear spacers for a comprehensive lift that maintains level stance
- CNC-machined billet aluminum construction with corrosion-resistant finish
- Accommodates 33-inch tires easily and can fit 35-inch tires with additional modifications
- Straightforward bolt-on installation with no cutting or drilling required
What doesn’t
- Ride quality becomes noticeably firmer on rough roads due to reduced suspension travel
- Not officially compatible with Rebel, TRX, or air suspension models despite some owner reports
8. PROEZE 3″ Front + 2″ Rear Leveling Lift Kit
The PROEZE leveling kit uses forged 6061-T6 aluminum alloy with CNC automatic processing, surface anodizing, and heat treatment to produce spacers that offer a solid balance of strength, precision, and corrosion resistance. The kit raises the front by 3 inches and the rear by 2 inches, and it includes hardened grade 12.9 bolts that are pre-installed into the spacers. This attention to hardware quality is notable at this price level, as 12.9-grade studs provide significantly higher tensile strength than the 8.8-grade hardware found in true budget kits.
Owner reports describe the installation as manageable within 2 hours, though some users noted that the nuts provided for the strut mounting did not thread correctly and required substitution with factory hardware. This is a recurring observation across multiple reviews and suggests a quality control inconsistency with the included fasteners. The actual lift achieved is close to the advertised 3 inches in the front, and owners running 33-inch and 35-inch tires report adequate clearance after minor trimming. The ride quality remains similar to stock for daily driving, with the expected increase in firmness on sharp impacts.
PROEZE includes a 2-year warranty with this kit, which is shorter than the lifetime warranties offered by some competitors but still provides reasonable coverage for the price point. The precision machining and quality material selection make this kit a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers who still want genuine 6061-T6 construction and high-grade hardware. If you are comfortable using your own fasteners for the strut mounting if needed, the PROEZE kit delivers reliable lift performance at a competitive cost.
What works
- Forged 6061-T6 aluminum alloy with CNC machining and heat treatment for strength and precision
- Pre-installed hardened 12.9-grade studs provide exceptional tensile strength and reliability
- Anodized surface finish offers good corrosion resistance for long-term durability
- Delivers close to advertised 3-inch front lift with minimal installation time
What doesn’t
- Some units ship with strut mounting nuts that do not thread correctly, requiring substitution
- 2-year warranty is shorter than lifetime coverage offered by several competitors
9. FLYCLE 3″ Front + 2″ Rear Leveling Lift Kit
The FLYCLE leveling kit shares a similar specification sheet with other value-oriented 3-inch front / 2-inch rear kits, using forged 6061-T6 aluminum alloy with CNC machining, anodic oxidation, and heat treatment. Like the PROEZE kit, it comes with pre-installed 12.9-grade studs, which is a meaningful feature at this price point. The kit fits 2009-2019 Ram 1500 4WD models and also claims compatibility with 2020-2024 models with the new body style, though it explicitly excludes Mega Cab, Rebel, and TRX trims.
Owner feedback is generally positive, with users noting that the spacers fit well and the lift achieves the advertised height. The installation process is straightforward and follows the same basic procedure as other top-strut spacer kits, though some owners strongly recommend using a spring compressor that engages from inside the coil for easier installation. The hardware quality is consistent, and the anodized finish provides adequate corrosion protection. A few Spanish-language reviews confirm international satisfaction with the build quality and fitment.
The primary consideration with the FLYCLE kit is that the fitment is described as “not a perfect fit” by some owners, meaning the spacers may require minor persuasion to seat correctly. This is not uncommon with value-priced kits and generally does not affect the final alignment or performance once installed. The kit comes with a 2-year warranty from the manufacturer. For owners who want a complete 3-inch front and 2-inch rear lift at a competitive price and are comfortable with a slightly less refined fitment experience, the FLYCLE kit delivers functional results.
What works
- Forged 6061-T6 aluminum alloy with CNC machining and anodized finish for durability
- Pre-installed 12.9-grade studs provide reliable hardware strength for the application
- Achieves advertised 3-inch front lift for improved clearance and aggressive stance
- Wide model year compatibility spanning 2009-2024 Ram 1500 (excluding specific trims)
What doesn’t
- Fitment may require minor persuasion for perfect seating; not a precise drop-in for all trucks
- 2-year warranty is shorter than lifetime coverage offered by USA-based manufacturers
10. AA Ignition 3″ Front + 2″ Rear Leveling Kit
The AA Ignition leveling kit provides a 3-inch front lift paired with 2-inch rear spacers, both constructed from forged aircraft billet aluminum with a black anodized surface for corrosion resistance. The kit is designed specifically for 2009-2018 Ram 1500 4WD models and includes mounting studs for the front spacers. The manufacturer explicitly states that this kit does not fit 2WD trucks, Mega Cab, Rebel, or TRX models, making the compatibility requirements clear upfront.
Owner reviews for this kit are strong, with an average rating of 4.6 stars across over 300 reviews. However, several of the top reviews reference Ford F-150 applications, which indicates that the product listing may aggregate reviews across multiple vehicle fitments. For Ram-specific use, owners report that the spacers fit correctly and the lift achieves the advertised height. The installation is straightforward for those with mechanical experience, and the kit includes a limited lifetime warranty from AA Ignition, which adds confidence at this price tier.
The black anodized finish provides a clean, professional appearance and resists corrosion effectively. The forged construction offers better strength-to-weight characteristics than cast alternatives, and the included studs are pre-installed for convenience. The rear spacers in this kit are coil spring spacers that sit between the spring coils, which is a different approach than the solid block spacers used by some competitors. This design can be slightly easier to install in some cases. For Ram 1500 owners who want a complete front-and-rear leveling solution with a lifetime warranty, the AA Ignition kit represents solid value.
What works
- Forged aircraft billet aluminum construction with black anodized corrosion-resistant finish
- Limited lifetime warranty provides long-term purchase confidence at a competitive price point
- Front and rear spacers provide comprehensive leveling with 3-inch front lift
- Pre-installed mounting studs simplify installation and ensure concentric alignment
What doesn’t
- Product listing aggregates reviews across multiple vehicle fitments, reducing Ram-specific feedback
- Not compatible with 2WD, Mega Cab, Rebel, or TRX trim levels
11. Richeer 3″ Front Leveling Lift Kit
The Richeer 3-inch front leveling kit is the most budget-conscious option in this roundup, using forged 6061-T6 aluminum alloy with CNC automatic processing to achieve 0.02mm precision on the spacer dimensions. The kit includes pre-installed heat-treated 12.9-grade studs and fits 1994-2018 Ram 1500 2WD models, as well as 1994-2011 Ram 2500 and 3500 2WD trucks. The wide model year coverage is notable, but the 2WD-only compatibility and the exclusion of Extended Cab and Mega Cab models are important limitations to verify before purchasing.
Owner feedback is mixed, with an average rating of 4.0 stars across 402 reviews. The positive reviews highlight the easy installation — typically 1 to 2 hours — and the noticeable improvement in the truck’s stance. However, there is a significant negative review that reports incorrect spacer dimensions that prevented a level stance and created unsafe handling at highway speeds. This type of quality control variance is more common at the lowest price tiers and represents a real risk that buyers should weigh against the cost savings.
The kit raises only the front by 3 inches without rear spacers, which means it simply eliminates the factory rake rather than lifting the entire truck. This is functionally identical to what many leveling kits do, but the lack of rear support means the truck will sit nose-high if the factory rear springs have sagged over time. For 2WD Ram 1500 owners on a strict budget who want a basic front lift with quality construction when it arrives correctly, the Richeer kit offers the lowest entry point. Just be prepared to inspect the spacer dimensions carefully before installation and verify the return policy.
What works
- Forged 6061-T6 aluminum alloy with CNC precision machining for accurate spacer dimensions
- Pre-installed heat-treated 12.9-grade studs provide strong, reliable hardware
- Quick installation typically completed in 1-2 hours without special tools
- Wide model year compatibility for 2WD Ram trucks (1994-2018)
What doesn’t
- Quality control variance reported with some units having incorrect spacer dimensions affecting safety
- 2WD-only compatibility excludes the majority of Ram 1500 4WD trucks on the road
- Front-only lift may result in nose-high stance if rear springs have sagged over time
Hardware & Specs Guide
Top-Strut vs. Loaded Strut Leveling
Top-strut spacers sit above the factory strut assembly and require no spring disassembly. They retain the original strut valving and spring rate, which means ride quality stays close to stock for moderate lifts up to 2.5 inches. Loaded strut kits replace the entire front strut with a pre-assembled unit that includes a coil spring engineered for the lifted height. These deliver superior damping control and maintain proper suspension geometry without compressing the factory spring beyond its intended range, but they cost significantly more and require full strut replacement.
Material Grades and Hardware Standards
6061-T6 aluminum is the industry standard for quality leveling spacers due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and machinability. Forged 6061-T6 is denser and stronger than billet-cut from bar stock. Grade 12.9 studs are heat-treated to 1,200 MPa tensile strength, making them roughly 50% stronger than the 8.8-grade studs found in entry-level kits. The stud retention method also matters — pressed-in studs maintain concentric alignment better than loose bolts that can shift during installation.
Lift Height and Suspension Geometry Limits
Lifting the front of a 2013 Ram 1500 beyond 2 inches starts to push the upper ball joint and CV axle angles past their designed operating ranges. At 2.5 inches and above, aftermarket upper control arms with relocated ball joint mounting points become advisable to maintain proper alignment and prevent premature wear. The motion ratio between spacer thickness and actual lift is approximately 1:1.5 for most Ram 1500 applications, meaning a 1-inch thick spacer delivers roughly 1.5 inches of lift. Always verify the advertised lift height rather than measuring the spacer.
Alignment Requirements and Post-Install Adjustments
Every leveling kit installation requires a professional alignment afterward because raising the front changes the camber, caster, and toe settings. Most shops can bring a 2-inch lift back into factory specification with the factory adjustment range. At 2.5 inches or higher, aftermarket upper control arms with enlarged ball joint mounting holes or eccentric bushings may be needed to achieve proper caster settings. Owners who skip the alignment risk accelerated tire wear, poor steering return, and reduced handling stability at highway speeds.
FAQ
How much does it cost to have a leveling kit installed professionally?
Will a leveling kit affect my truck’s ride quality?
Can I run 35-inch tires with a leveling kit on my 2013 Ram 1500?
Do I need an alignment after installing a leveling kit?
What is the difference between a leveling kit and a lift kit?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most buyers, the best 2013 ram 1500 leveling kit winner is the MotoFab DR-2 because it combines genuine USA-made billet aluminum construction, a straightforward 2-inch top-strut design, and a lifetime warranty at a price that undercuts most competitors while maintaining excellent owner satisfaction ratings. If you want the best possible ride quality and are willing to invest more for a complete engineered system, grab the Rough Country N3 Leveling Struts. And for towing stability with adjustable load support, nothing beats the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 air spring kit.

Certification: BSc in Mechanical Engineering
Education: Mechanical engineer
Lives In: 539 W Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75208, USA
Md Amir is an auto mechanic student and writer with over half a decade of experience in the automotive field. He has worked with top automotive brands such as Lexus, Quantum, and also owns two automotive blogs autocarneed.com and taxiwiz.com.










