2014-2018 Silverado 1500 Rancho Loaded quickLIFT Front Strut for 2-Inch Lift Review & Install

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the installation of the Rancho Loaded quickLIFT Front Strut for a 2-inch lift on a 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. This upgrade enhances your vehicle's performance by allowing for larger wheels and tires while providing improved ride quality. With moderate to expert mechanical skills, you can complete this installation in about two hours.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary tools and components:

• Rancho Loaded quickLIFT Front Strut
• Socket set (including deep sockets)
• Wrench set
• Torque wrench
• Spring compressor
• Jack and jack stands
• Safety glasses and gloves
• Optional: Impact wrench for quicker removal of bolts

Step 2: Prepare Your Vehicle

Follow these steps to safely prepare your Silverado for the installation:

1. Park the vehicle on a flat surface.
2. Set the parking brake.
3. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels without removing them completely.
4. Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle and securely place jack stands under the frame.
5. Remove the front wheels.

Step 3: Remove the Stock Strut Assembly

To replace the factory strut, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the sway bar link:

   • Use a wrench to remove the bolt connecting the sway bar to the strut assembly.

2. Remove the brake line bracket:

   • Unbolt the bracket that holds the brake line to the strut.

3. Loosen the upper strut nuts:

   • Access the strut mount under the hood and remove the upper nuts using a socket.

4. Remove the strut assembly from the vehicle:

   • Unbolt the lower strut bolts from the control arm and carefully take out the strut assembly.

Step 4: Compress the Spring and Swap Struts

With the strut assembly removed, you'll need to transfer the spring:

1. Compress the spring:

   • Carefully place the spring compressor on the strut spring and tighten it until the spring is compressed.

2. Remove the upper strut mount:

   • Use a socket to remove the nut holding the upper mount, then take off the strut spring from the old strut.

3. Install the spring onto the new Rancho strut:

   • Place the spring onto the Rancho Loaded quickLIFT Front Strut and secure it with the upper strut mount.

4. Release the spring compressor:

   • Once the assembly is complete, slowly release the tension on the spring compressor.

Step 5: Install the New Strut Assembly

Now, install the new strut assembly back into the vehicle:

1. Position the new strut into the strut tower and secure it with the upper nuts.
2. Reattach the lower strut bolts to the control arm and tighten them to the manufacturer's specifications.
3. Reconnect the sway bar link and brake line bracket.

Step 6: Finalize Installation

Complete the installation process:

1. Reinstall the front wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
2. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
3. Torque the lug nuts to the specified value once the vehicle is on the ground.
4. Double-check all connections and ensure everything is secure.

Conclusion

You have successfully installed the Rancho Loaded quickLIFT Front Strut for a 2-inch lift on your Silverado 1500. This enhancement not only improves the vehicle's stance but also allows for larger wheels and tires. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of your new struts. Consider scheduling a wheel alignment after installation to maintain optimal tire wear and handling. Enjoy your lifted ride!