Lowering your GMC Sierra can transform its appearance and handling, making it a head-turner on the streets and offering improved performance. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, street-truck aesthetic or want to enhance your Sierra’s cornering abilities, a drop kit can be the perfect solution. This guide dives into the world of GMC Sierra drop kits, helping you understand the options available, the benefits they offer, and what to consider before making a purchase.
Imagine a bold, muscular truck with a stance that exudes confidence. That’s the kind of transformation a well-chosen drop kit can deliver. It’s a significant visual upgrade that also unlocks a range of performance improvements. But navigating the options can be daunting. This article breaks down the essentials, providing insights to help you make informed decisions and find the ideal drop kit for your GMC Sierra.
Unveiling the Benefits of a Lowered GMC Sierra
Lowering a GMC Sierra extends far beyond mere aesthetics. The benefits encompass a spectrum of improvements that will enhance your overall driving experience. Let’s explore the key advantages.
Enhanced Style and Presence
The most immediate impact is the visual transformation. A drop kit brings your Sierra closer to the ground, diminishing the often-excessive gap between the tires and the wheel wells. This results in a more aggressive, sporty, and streamlined look. Your truck will command attention, showcasing a custom appeal that sets it apart from the crowd.
A Lower stance allows for increased design opportunities with wheel and tire combinations. With a well-chosen drop kit you will be able to have a custom look with wheel that you would not have otherwise.
Optimized Performance and Handling
Lowering the truck’s center of gravity is a fundamental shift that results in enhanced handling. By reducing the distance between the axles and the road, the truck becomes less prone to body roll during cornering and braking. This leads to improved stability, responsiveness, and a more confident feel behind the wheel.
The result is a more connected driving experience. The truck reacts more predictably to steering inputs, enabling you to take turns with greater precision and control.
Other Potential Advantages
Depending on your driving style and the specific configuration, other benefits may also arise.
In certain situations, a lower ride height could potentially improve aerodynamic efficiency at highway speeds, though this is often minimal.
For some drivers, a lowered truck can make getting in and out of the vehicle easier. It might also offer easier access to the truck bed.
Exploring the Different Types of GMC Sierra Drop Kits
Understanding the diverse types of drop kits is essential for making the right choice for your needs and goals. Each type utilizes different components and provides a unique set of advantages.
Spring Based Kits
These kits typically involve replacing the factory springs with shorter, stiffer springs. The new springs effectively lower the ride height. This is a relatively straightforward and often more affordable option. Lowering springs offer a good balance of cost and performance improvement. The install can often be done by the home mechanic. However, be prepared to change your shocks at the same time as the springs, as the original shocks may not work as well with the shorter springs.
Coilover Kits are a more sophisticated variant. They replace both the springs and the shock absorbers with a single, integrated unit. Coilovers provide a more controlled and adjustable ride. You can often fine-tune the ride height to your exact preference, which isn’t available on many spring kits. Coilovers can also offer improved handling. They are generally more expensive than just springs, and installation can be more involved.
Spindle Based Kits
Drop spindles replace the factory spindles, which are the components that connect the wheel hubs to the suspension. The beauty of a drop spindle is that it usually retains the original factory ride quality because they can maintain stock geometry. Drop spindles effectively relocate the wheel hub to a lower position, thereby lowering the truck without significantly affecting other suspension components. This approach often preserves the factory ride quality and handling characteristics. The installation can require some mechanical knowledge, and the alignment may need adjustment after installation.
Flip Kits and Axle Relocation Kits
For the rear suspension, flip kits or axle relocation kits are a common choice for achieving a significant drop. These kits involve relocating the rear axle above the leaf springs, which drastically lowers the rear end of the truck. This type of kit typically produces a more aggressive stance. Installation can be more complex than other options and may require additional modifications, such as C-notch the frame for axle clearance.
Considering Crucial Factors Before Investing in a Drop Kit
Before you commit to purchasing a drop kit for your GMC Sierra, careful consideration is crucial. Several factors will significantly influence your satisfaction with the outcome.
The Desired Ride Height
The amount of drop you select is a key decision. A lower drop results in a more dramatic visual change and potentially enhances handling further. However, a significantly lower ride height may impact ride comfort and potentially reduce ground clearance. It’s essential to think about how you intend to use your truck. Will it primarily be a daily driver, or will it be used for towing? Does it still need to go offroad?
Discuss different lowering options to determine what would work best for your specific needs.
Ride Quality and Comfort
Consider how each drop kit type will affect the ride comfort. Stiffer springs can result in a firmer ride. Therefore, choosing the right shocks is extremely important to the ride quality. If ride comfort is a top priority, consider a kit that retains or improves it, or look for shock absorbers that enhance the ride quality.
Budgetary Considerations
The price of drop kits can vary considerably depending on the type, components included, and manufacturer. Set a realistic budget to guide your search. Factor in not only the cost of the kit itself but also the potential cost of professional installation, especially if you aren’t comfortable with DIY projects.
Installation Expertise and Skills
Installation difficulty varies considerably. Some kits, such as lowering spring kits, can be managed by an experienced DIY enthusiast with the proper tools. Others, like flip kits, may require professional installation due to their complexity. Assess your mechanical skills and consider if you’ll be comfortable undertaking the job yourself. If you’re unsure, it is always a good idea to use a professional mechanic.
Compatibility and Model Specificity
Ensure the drop kit you choose is compatible with your exact GMC Sierra model year, cab configuration, and drivetrain (2WD or 4WD). Verify the fitment with the manufacturer and carefully review the kit’s specifications.
Keep in mind that certain drop kits might necessitate other modifications, such as aftermarket shock absorbers or sway bar links, to ensure proper functionality and performance.
An Overview of the Installation Process
*Disclaimer: This is a general overview. Always refer to the kit’s specific instructions.*
Front Suspension Install
Start by safely raising the vehicle and securing it with jack stands. Remove the wheels and tires. Then, disconnect and remove the existing suspension components such as shocks, springs, and any other components like ball joints. The old springs are then replaced with new springs. Fasten the components using torque specifications. Replace the wheels and tires, and then lower the vehicle.
Rear Suspension Install
Again, raise the vehicle and securely support it. Remove wheels and tires. Disconnect and remove the current rear suspension components such as shocks, springs, and any other applicable hardware. If you are using a flip kit, follow the kit instructions to relocate the rear axle. Use the torque specifications to fasten all components. Replace the wheels and tires, and then lower the vehicle.
Crucial: Wheel Alignment
After installing any drop kit, a professional wheel alignment is non-negotiable. This is vital to ensure proper handling, tire wear, and overall safety.
After Installation: Maintenance and Considerations
Regularly inspect the vehicle for any signs of wear or damage. Proper maintenance will extend the life of your new suspension components.
Shock Absorber Selection
If your kit doesn’t come with upgraded shocks, consider upgrading the shocks.
Suspension Upgrades
Consider the advantages of more advanced shocks to gain greater performance.
Finding the Right Drop Kit
You can find drop kits through various channels, including reputable online retailers, local automotive shops, and specialty truck performance stores. Compare prices, read customer reviews, and assess the warranty options offered by each seller. Be sure to check the seller’s reputation and their return policy before making a purchase.
Conclusion
Lowering your GMC Sierra is a rewarding way to improve its style and handling. By understanding the options, carefully considering your requirements, and investing in a quality drop kit, you can achieve a stunning transformation.
Research thoroughly, compare options, and select the kit that best suits your needs. With the right approach, you’ll be enjoying the benefits of your lowered GMC Sierra in no time.