Quick answer: on a 2011-2013 Ram 2500, we'd run the Rancho Level-it-System (RS66450R9). You get new front coils, RS9000XL shocks and a 2.5-inch level in one box. On a 2014-2018 Ram 2500 4WD, the Tuff Country 32909 is our pick: a 2-inch steel coil spacer kit that Tuff Country says clears 35x12.5 tires. On a 2013-2018 Ram 3500, start with the Synergy 8750-11, and if you have a 2013-2014 3500 4WD, the Skyjacker R25 spacer kit is the simple way to kill the nose-down look.
These heavy-duty Rams leave the factory with the nose sitting lower than the tail. That's the rake. A leveling kit raises the front so the truck sits flat, looks right on bigger tires, and stops looking like it's diving into the pavement. Below is every kit we carry for these trucks, which version each one fits, and what we'd bolt on if it were ours. You can also browse our full leveling kits lineup.
Which Ram 2500 or 3500 do you have?
Leveling kits on these trucks are picky about year, model and drivetrain. Get this part right before anything else. Here's how to sort your truck.
Year: 2011-2013 or 2014-2018?
For the 2500, the big split is the rear suspension. Starting with the 2014 model year, Ram dropped the rear leaf springs on the 2500 and moved to a five-link coil rear with dual-rate springs. Look under the back of the truck. If you see leaf springs, you have an older 2500. If you see coils and links, you have a 2014 or newer.
The front changed too, which is why the kits don't cross over. If you're not sure of the year, check the sticker on the driver's door jamb.
2500 or 3500?
Look at the badge on the fender. Duallies are always 3500s. Single-rear-wheel 3500s look a lot like 2500s, so trust the badge and the door sticker, not the stance. From the factory, a 3500 sits about 1/2 inch taller than a 2500. Close isn't good enough here, so don't order a 2500 kit for a 3500.
2WD or 4WD?
Two of our kits are 4WD only: the Tuff Country 32909 and the Skyjacker R25. If you have a 2WD, skip those and check the fitment on the Rancho or Synergy product cards before you order.
Power Wagon, rear air and shock location
The Power Wagon is its own animal. It runs the 6.4L HEMI and rolls on 285/70R17s from the factory, and the Tuff Country kit excludes it outright. The same Tuff Country kit also excludes trucks with rear air suspension. It's built for trucks with the front shock mounted outside the coil spring. If yours sits inside the coil, Tuff Country lists a different part (32900).
| Your truck | How to tell | Kits we carry |
|---|---|---|
| 2011-2013 Ram 2500 | Rear leaf springs, door sticker 2011-2013 | Rancho RS66450R9 |
| 2014-2018 Ram 2500 | Rear coils with five-link setup | Synergy 8750-10 |
| 2014-2018 Ram 2500 4WD (not Power Wagon, no rear air) | 4WD, front shock outside the coil | Tuff Country 32909 |
| 2013-2018 Ram 3500 | 3500 badge, door sticker 2013-2018 | Synergy 8750-11 |
| 2013-2014 Ram 3500 4WD | 4WD, door sticker 2013 or 2014 | Skyjacker R25 |
Running a 2010? Nothing in this lineup covers that year, so hit up our leveling kits page and filter by your exact truck.
Best leveling kits for the 2011-2013 Ram 2500
The 2011-2013 2500 rides on rear leaf springs. Up front, the nose is weighed down by whatever's under the hood: the 5.7L HEMI, or the 6.7L Cummins, which made up to 800 lb-ft in high-output form starting February 2011. These trucks are heavy up front. A 4WD 2015 2500 with the 5.7 carries 4,088 lbs on the front axle against 3,115 lbs out back, and the older trucks weren't any lighter in the nose. That's why the rake bugs so many owners.
Most guys level these trucks for one of two reasons. Either the factory 265/70R17s look lost in the wheel wells, or they want to step up to a 35-inch tire without a full lift.
Rancho Level-it-System (RS66450R9)
The Rancho 11-13 Ram 2500 Level-it-System isn't a puck kit. It replaces the front coil springs and adds Rancho RS9000XL front shocks plus sway bar relocation brackets. Rancho says it levels the front of the diesel trucks by 2.5 inches and pitches it for on-road comfort and off-road performance.
You're getting new springs and new shocks instead of stacking a spacer on worn factory parts. If your 2500 has six figures on the clock and the front shocks are tired, this kit takes care of both jobs at once.
Our pick for the 2011-2013 2500: the Rancho, no contest. It's the only kit we carry for this generation, and we'd pick it even with more options on the table. Spring, shock and level in one box is the right way to do a heavy diesel.
Best leveling kits for the 2014-2018 Ram 2500
In 2014 the 2500 moved to a five-link coil rear, and the front coils got very stiff. That stiffness is good for hauling. It's not so good for your spine on a washboard road. The engine lineup by 2018 ran from the 5.7L HEMI (383 hp, 400 lb-ft) and 6.4L HEMI (410 hp, 429 lb-ft) up to the 6.7L Cummins at 350 hp/660 lb-ft or 370 hp/800 lb-ft. The heavier engine choices push the nose down even further.
Factory tire sizes jumped around a lot by trim. That's part of why owners level: the stock 275/70R18 or 285/60R20 leaves a lot of empty space once you've got the rake out.
| 2014 Ram 2500 trim | Factory tire size |
|---|---|
| Tradesman / ST | 245/70R17 or 275/70R18 |
| SLT, Outdoorsman, Lone Star, Laramie Longhorn | 275/70R18 or 285/60R20 |
| Power Wagon | 285/70R17 |
| 2016 Limited | 285/60R20 |
Tuff Country 2-inch Leveling Kit (32909), 4WD
The Tuff Country 14-23 Ram 2500 4WD 2in Leveling Kit is the classic coil spacer setup done right. You get 1/4-inch steel spacers with a powder-coated finish, plus front shock extension brackets so your factory shocks don't top out. Tuff Country rates it at 2 inches front, 0 inches rear and says it allows a 35x12.5 tire.
New shocks aren't required, and Tuff Country calls it a simple bolt-on. It fits 4WD 2500s with the front shock outside the coil spring. It excludes the Power Wagon and trucks with rear air suspension.
Synergy Leveling System (8750-10)
The Synergy 2014+ Ram 2500 Leveling System is built for the 2014-2018 2500 chassis. Synergy sells it as a leveling system for this specific truck, not a one-size spacer pulled off a shelf. If your 2500 doesn't fit the Tuff Country's rules (Power Wagon, rear air, or shock inside the coil), this is the kit to look at. Check the product card to confirm it matches your drivetrain.
Our pick for the 2014-2018 2500: if you have a regular 4WD truck with the shock outside the coil and no rear air, run the Tuff Country 32909. The steel is heavy, the shock brackets are included, and the 35x12.5 tire claim is the whole reason most people level in the first place. For anything else in this year range, go Synergy.
Best leveling kits for the 2013-2018 Ram 3500
The 3500 already sits about a half inch taller than the 2500 from the factory, but it still has rake. On a dually it looks worse, because those wide rear hips make the low nose stand out even more. This is the truck that tows the fifth wheel, so most 3500 owners want a level that keeps the factory load manners.
Synergy Leveling System (8750-11)
The Synergy 2013+ Ram 3500 Leveling System covers the widest spread of 3500s we carry: 2013 through 2018. It's a dedicated 3500 kit, which matters because of that factory height difference over the 2500. If you have a 2015-2018 3500, this is the only kit in our lineup built for your truck.
Skyjacker Front Leveling Kit (R25), 4WD
The Skyjacker Front Leveling Kit for the 2013-2014 Ram 3500 4WD uses spacers that Skyjacker designs specifically to give the extra front lift you need for a level stance. It keeps the factory springs and shocks in place, so it's the most straightforward way to level a 2013-2014 4WD 3500. It's 4WD only and those two years only. Don't try it on a 2015.
Our pick for the 3500: the Synergy 8750-11 covers the most trucks and is the default. If you have a 2013-2014 4WD 3500 and just want a simple spacer level without changing anything else, the Skyjacker R25 does exactly that.
Every Ram 2500/3500 leveling kit, side by side
| Part | Fits | Years | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rancho RS66450R9 | 2500 (2011-2013) | 2011-2013 | Leveling kit | $848.47 |
| Synergy 8750-10 | 2500 (2014-2018) | 2014-2018 | Leveling kit | $1,353.20 |
| Tuff 32909 | 2500 4WD Front (2014-2018) | 2014-2018 | Leveling kit | $178.06 |
| Synergy 8750-11 | 3500 (2013-2018) | 2013-2018 | Leveling kit | $1,353.20 |
| Skyjacker R25 | 3500 4WD (2013-2014) | 2013-2014 | Leveling kit | $224.36 |
How a leveling spacer actually works
A spacer kit doesn't touch your spring rate. It just moves the coil down so the front of the frame sits higher.
In Figure 1, the leveling spacer (2 in Figure 1) sits between the frame spring seat (1 in Figure 1) and the top of the coil spring (3 in Figure 1). The bottom of the coil still rides on the axle spring perch (4 in Figure 1). The spring compresses the same amount it did before, but everything above it now sits higher by the thickness of the spacer. On the Tuff Country kit, that's how you get 2 inches up front and nothing in the rear.
A coil kit like the Rancho swaps the coil spring (3) itself for a new one. That changes the ride height and the spring behavior together.
Tuff Country vs Synergy vs Rancho vs Skyjacker: which brand for your Ram?
On these trucks, brand choice mostly comes down to which kit fits your year and model, and then whether you want a spacer or new springs.
- Tuff Country vs Synergy (2014-2018 2500): Tuff Country is a straight 2-inch steel spacer kit with shock extension brackets and a 35x12.5 tire claim. It's 4WD only, with no Power Wagon and no rear air. Synergy is the dedicated 2014+ 2500 system that covers trucks the Tuff Country can't. We'd run Tuff Country on a regular 4WD and Synergy on everything else.
- Synergy vs Skyjacker (3500): Skyjacker's R25 is a spacer kit for 2013-2014 4WD trucks only. Synergy's 8750-11 runs 2013-2018. On a 2013-2014 4WD, pick between a simple spacer (Skyjacker) and Synergy's system. On 2015-up, it's Synergy.
- Rancho (2011-2013 2500): this is the only kit in the group that ships with new coils and shocks. Different league, different truck.
The same spacer-vs-coil debate shows up on the half-tons too. If you've got one of those in the driveway, check our guides to F-150 leveling kits and Silverado 1500 leveling kits.
Leveling kit vs lift kit on a Ram HD
A leveling kit raises the front only, so the truck sits flat. The Tuff Country kit is a clean example: 2 inches front, 0 rear. A lift kit raises both ends, usually with new springs, longer shocks, and more parts to install.
On a 2500 or 3500 that tows, leveling is the smart move for most owners. You keep the factory rear setup that carries the hitch weight, you get room for 35s, and you don't have to rework half the suspension. Go to a full lift only if you want tires bigger than a level can clear, or you're building a dedicated off-road rig.
Building a half-ton instead? Our Ram 1500 lift kits guide covers that side of the family.
What's the biggest tire after leveling?
Tuff Country says its 2-inch kit allows a 35x12.5 on the 2014-2018 2500 4WD, and that's the size we'd plan around on any of these levels. It's a big jump from the factory 265/70R17 or 275/70R18. Even the Power Wagon only gets a 285/70R17 from the factory.
Wheel choice matters as much as the kit. Every 2010-2018 Ram 2500 runs an 8x6.5-inch (8x165.1mm) bolt pattern, so shop for wheels in that pattern. Mind your offset too: a deep negative offset pushes the tire out where it's more likely to rub the bumper or fender at full lock. If you want to go bigger than 35s, test fit before you send it, or step up to a real lift.
Want to compare with the half-ton? We broke down whether you can run 35s on a Ram 1500. The answer is very different from the HD.
Does a leveling kit ruin the ride?
Not on these trucks, if you pick the right style. A spacer kit like the Tuff Country or Skyjacker keeps your factory coils and spring rate. The truck rides like it did before, just level. On the 2014+ 2500, those factory coils are very stiff, so expect firm, not floaty.
The Rancho kit is the one that can actually change the ride, because it replaces the coils and adds RS9000XL shocks. Rancho says it's built for on-road comfort and off-road performance. If your stock shocks are worn out, you'll feel the difference.
One thing to watch on spacer kits is shock travel. That's why the Tuff Country includes front shock extension brackets. They keep your factory shocks working in their normal range after the 2-inch lift.
Do you need an alignment after leveling?
Yes. Every time. Raising the front changes your front-end angles, and the toe will be off the moment the truck comes back down on the ground. Skip the alignment and you'll chew through a set of 35s faster than you think.
Book the alignment for right after the install. On a heavy HD that sees towing, have the shop check the steering wheel is centered too. It's an easy fix while the truck is on the rack.
How long does a Ram HD leveling kit take to install?
A spacer kit is the easy job. Tuff Country calls the 32909 a simple bolt-on, and new shocks aren't required. A decent home mechanic with jack stands and a spring compressor can knock it out in an afternoon. Shop installs on spacer kits are usually quick too.
The Rancho Level-it-System is more work. You're swapping front coils, installing new RS9000XL shocks, and adding sway bar relocation brackets. Give it more time, or hand it to a shop if you don't have the tools to safely handle coil springs on a 6.7L Cummins truck.
Either way, plan an alignment right after.
Ram 2500/3500 leveling kit FAQ
What's the best leveling kit for a Ram 2500?
It depends on your year. On a 2011-2013 Ram 2500, we'd run the Rancho Level-it-System. It levels the front by 2.5 inches and comes with new coils and RS9000XL shocks. On a 2014-2018 2500 4WD that isn't a Power Wagon and doesn't have rear air, the Tuff Country 32909 2-inch spacer kit is our pick. For other 2014-2018 2500s, go with the Synergy 8750-10.
What's the best leveling kit for a Ram 3500?
The Synergy 8750-11 covers 2013-2018 Ram 3500s, and it's our default pick. If you have a 2013 or 2014 4WD 3500 and want the simplest spacer setup, the Skyjacker R25 is built for exactly that truck. Don't use a 2500 kit on a 3500. The 3500 sits about a half inch taller from the factory, and the kits are specific.
Do you have 2WD Dodge Ram leveling kits?
The Tuff Country 32909 and Skyjacker R25 are 4WD only, so they're out for 2WD trucks. For a 2WD, check the fitment on the Rancho and Synergy product cards before ordering. Our leveling kits page lets you filter by your exact truck and drivetrain. If nothing comes up for your 2WD, don't force a 4WD kit onto it.
Do you carry leveling kits for an 04 or 08 Dodge Ram?
Not in this lineup. The kits in this guide cover the 2011-2018 Ram 2500 and 2013-2018 Ram 3500. Older trucks use different front suspension parts, so a newer kit won't bolt on. Use the filter on our leveling kits page to see what we have for older years.
How much lift does a Ram 2500 leveling kit give?
The Tuff Country 32909 gives 2 inches up front and 0 in the rear, which is how Tuff Country rates it. The Rancho Level-it-System gives 2.5 inches up front on the 2011-2013 diesel trucks. Both are front-only lifts meant to remove the factory rake.
Can I run 35s on a leveled Ram 2500?
Tuff Country says its 2-inch kit allows a 35x12.5 on the 2014-2018 2500 4WD. That's the size we'd plan around for any leveled 2500 or 3500. Pick a wheel in the 8x6.5 bolt pattern and don't go crazy on negative offset, or you'll start rubbing at full lock. Test fit before you go bigger than 35s.
Will a leveling kit fit my Power Wagon?
Not the Tuff Country 32909, which excludes Power Wagon models outright. The Power Wagon already comes with a 6.4L HEMI and 285/70R17 tires, and its suspension is set up differently from a regular 2500. Check the Synergy 8750-10 card fitment for your truck, or reach out before you order.
Does my truck's rear air suspension matter?
Yes. The Tuff Country 32909 excludes Ram 2500s with rear air suspension. If your 2014-2018 2500 has rear air, skip that kit and look at the Synergy 8750-10. Air-ride trucks need a kit built with that setup in mind.
Do I need new shocks with a leveling kit?
Not with the Tuff Country. Tuff Country says new shocks aren't required, and the kit includes front shock extension brackets so your factory shocks stay in range. The Rancho kit includes new RS9000XL shocks anyway. If your stock shocks are tired, a new pair is worth it no matter which kit you run.
Is a leveling kit bad for towing?
No. A front-only level like the Tuff Country leaves the rear completely stock, and that's where the hitch weight lives. Spacer kits also keep your factory spring rate. Just get an alignment after install and check your headlight aim before you hook up a trailer at night.
Leveling something smaller too? We've got the same breakdown for the Tacoma, the 4Runner and the Jeep Wrangler JL.
Shop every Ram 2500/3500 leveling kit
Every kit we carry for the 2011-2018 Ram 2500 and 2013-2018 Ram 3500 is below. Pick your year, model and drivetrain and you're set.
Try wheels on your Ram 2500: see the Ram 2500 bolt pattern, wheel sizes by year and wheel builds in our free wheel visualizer.