Do I need UCA's if I am only going to Level my Tundra

Hey Tundra fam, after tons of research, I am thinking about a slow progressive build from 2020 Tundra. I cant see the need to put a stage 5 suspension out the gate because my stock parts will have served no purpose and have very little resale... "CHEAP ME"

My question, if i am just going to start by Leveling with the

$230 ReadyLift 2.4" Front Leveling Kit - 66-5075

ReadyLift 2.4 Inch Front Leveling Kit - 66-5075

Do I need UCA's? Keep in mind I dont do offroad thing, this is my daily driver.

 

Need, no.. usually under 3" can use stock UCA an still get alignment in spec.. I don't think they would hurt to have either.

 

You should be fine with anything under 3 inches. I would recommend doing Bilstein 5100’s on the middle or top setting in the front over spacers. Too many horror stories about spacers!!!

 

Also, welcome from the IE!!!

 

I’d save your money for a better up grade and go with adjustable front struts and 1/4 to 1/2 spacers if needed to level out, I’d also recommend shackles in the back over blocks. Buy once cry once.
Just a 2 cents comment,
Welcome also.

 

This ^^^^^

 

If you install a Readylift kit you don't need to upgrade uppers at all.

 

That totally makes since, however if I go down the route of changing out the struts, wouldnt it be better just to bite the bullet and go with the ICON stage 2 or 5? my thinking behind all this is I can get some wear and tear out of my stock set up, throw in the 250.00 part, and have a decent level. Then pull the trigger as the addiction kicks in more...

I have had my truck for 2 weeks and already have researched everything and made a decision on nothing.... lol

 

Have you measured your truck on a level surface yet ? Ground to center of wheel opening...front/ back to figure out your differences in height.
A 3/1 lift might be a good decision
That’s what 50 % of folks start out with. I did that and went with the biggest tire in mostly stock wheel dimensions, BFGs on 285 65 R20s
Then did a CMC also total chaos UCAs My alignment was close to factory specs. The 3/1 gave plenty of height along with the larger tire. Keep looking at photos of members on here, when you find the look your after just duplicate that. Ask that owner how he got there. That’s an easy way of sizing things up.
Good luck Sir

 

I agree. I just did this 2 weeks ago. I went from a Readylift spacer kit and blocks to Toytec Alumas and shackles. Ride was greatly improved.

 

Go to the 6112 bilstiens and only spend suspension money once. I swapped them on after 3K miles and the ride is much improved over stock. My 2 cents.

 

Why Shackles over blocks?

 

That is NOT what she said!

 

I did a 3/1 level on mine and love it. Took it to firestone a paid for the lifetime alignment (so you can take it in every so often and have it tweaked for free). Running 295/70 18s and really like the look. No CMC, no spacers. Trimmed the corner of the skid plate and removed the mud flaps on the front. Its one of those "man that is a good looking truck" but not a "wow you definitely lifted that and had to put on bigger rims and tires to make it look right." I think it rides and drives just fine. That said I haven't been in a tundra that the owner replaced the suspension. So I'm sure it could be better. Ive yet to drive it and think gosh I sure wish I had a $3000 suspension lift instead.

 

soooooo you do or dont have aftermarket UCAs

 

Of course if forgot to answer the main question... my bad. No aftermarket UCAs here.

 

Blocks will flatten your springs over time, shackles won't. Shackles
will be the cheapest and the best route as far as travel and the leafs will hold the shape way better depending on how much lift you want with the shackles. Deaver leaf Springs packs are probably the best options for the money in the rear. Depending on the lift again. You can always buy an add a leaf for the money too. Shackles
will be the cheapest and the best route as far as travel and the leafs will hold the shape way better.
@Coachbuilder1 can give a better explanation if more information is required. He’s been lifting things most of his life, and specifically makes parts for Tundras.

 

amazing response, tyvm. i already bought a 1" block to replace the 2" block installed now. wonder if i should return and get some shackles from somewhere