Looking to install a lift kit on your 2017 RAM 1500 is a popular modification for owners who want to enhance capability, improve visibility, and give their truck a more aggressive stance. This specific model year sits in a sweet spot for aftermarket support, offering a balance of modern technology and robust mechanical components that adapt well to increased height. The decision to lift a daily driver or a workhorse involves understanding the trade-offs between suspension geometry, drivetrain angles, and everyday usability, which this guide will help you navigate.
Benefits of Lifting a 2017 RAM 1500
The primary advantage of installing a lift kit on your 2017 RAM 1500 is the immediate increase in ground clearance, which directly translates to improved off-road performance. This added distance between the undercarriage and the terrain allows you to traverse rocky trails, shallow riverbeds, and uneven farm roads without scraping the differential, transmission, or oil pan. Furthermore, the larger tire footprint provided by the lifted stance and wider rubber significantly boosts traction in mud, sand, and snow, making your truck considerably more capable in adverse weather conditions.
Beyond functionality, aesthetics play a significant role in the popularity of lift kits. The visual transformation creates a commanding presence on the road, making the vehicle appear more robust and purposeful. This modification opens the door to a world of customization, from pairing the lift with aggressive all-terrain tires to complementing the look with upgraded bumpers and lighting. The result is a truck that reflects a unique personality while maintaining the inherent comfort and technology that RAM is known for.
Types of Lift Kits Available
When shopping for a lift kit for your 2017 RAM 1500, you will encounter two primary categories: body lifts and suspension lifts. A body lift uses stacked spacers to raise the vehicle's body relative to the frame, offering a more modest height increase at a lower cost. While economical, this method does not improve off-road capability and can sometimes interfere with factory-mounted accessories like side steps or towing hitch receivers.
In contrast, suspension lift kits modify the actual suspension components—such as springs, shocks, and control arms—to increase the travel and articulation of the wheels. This type of kit is essential for serious off-roading as it maintains proper drivetrain angles and allows for the installation of significantly larger tires. Suspension lifts are generally categorized as either leveling kits, which raise the front to match the rear, or full kits, which provide a more dramatic increase in ride height and capability.
Installation Considerations and Process
Installing a lift kit on a modern vehicle like the 2017 RAM 1500 is a complex procedure that often requires moderate to advanced mechanical skill. The process typically involves unbolting factory components, installing the new parts, and performing a series of critical alignments. Due to the integrated nature of the RAM's steering and braking systems, components such as the track bar, sway bar links, and brake lines will need adjustment or replacement to accommodate the new height.
Because of the precise geometry required for safe operation, many owners opt to have the installation performed by a professional shop specializing in lifted trucks. A proper installation ensures that all critical angles, such as camber and toe, are within factory specifications, preventing uneven tire wear and handling instability. Attempting a DIY lift without the proper tools and knowledge can lead to complications that affect the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
Impact on Daily Driving and Usability
While off-road capability is a major draw, it is crucial to consider how a lift kit affects the daily driving dynamics of your RAM 1500. The increased ride height can alter the center of gravity, which may influence how the truck leans through corners or reacts in emergency maneuvers. Drivers accustomed to the original factory feel might notice a slightly more relaxed steering response and a different braking geometry, particularly if larger diameter wheels are also installed.
