McGaughy’s Suspension has done it again with their new 7-inch lift kit for the 2011 GM 2500HD and 3500HD trucks. Available for both the 4WD and 2WD versions, the kit allows for a 37-inch tall tire with minimal trimming. The kit was designed with safety and longevity in mind. One great thing about this kit is that the spindles were CAD-designed to achieve factory geometry and alignment specifications.
| Before
The kit was installed at the McGaughy’s headquarters in Fresno, California, on their 2011 GMC Sierra Denali 2500HD. There are several upgrades for the kit, including a dual-shock hoop, Fox Racing shocks, and boxed compression struts. For this installation, the boxed compression struts were used and all of the components were powdercoated black instead of having the glossy silver finish. To finish off the truck, a set of 20x9-inch BMF S.O.T.A. wheels wrapped in 35-inch Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires were installed. Follow along, as we show you how to increase the ride height, value, and look of your truck without sacrificing safety.
Highs:
- Increased off-road capability
- Enhanced looks
- Ability to clear larger tires
Lows:
- A bit pricey
- Decreased MPG
- Decreased horsepower
From The Driver Seat
With the new lift and tires, the truck sits about nine inches higher than factory. After leaping up into the truck, we took it for a quick shakedown to make sure nothing was rubbing and that everything was fine. With the 35-inch-tall tires, there was absolutely no rubbing, even when turning on uneven terrain. It is possible to fit a 37-inch-tall tire, however, the tire would need to be 10 inches wide and for a 20-inch wheel, would need a 5-inch backspacing to eliminate the need for trimming. For more information about this lift and all other McGaughy’s products, check them out online at www.mcgaughys.com.
| The factory wheels will not fit the new lift spindles, so a set of 20x9-inch BMF S.O.T.A. wheels with Nitto Trail Grappler 35x12.50x20 tires were installed.
Your Questions Answered
Time Spent Working:
6 Hours
Degree of Difficulty:
Intermediate
Tools Needed:
assorted sockets, Sawzall, torque wrench, Loctite
Parts Used:
(prices from manufacturers and do not include tax, shipping, or installation)
McGaughy’s 7-inch lift # 52350
$2,320.00
BMF S.O.T.A. 20x9-inch wheels
$530 each, $2,120.00 total
Nitto Trail Grappler 35x12.50x20 tires
$343 each, $1,372.00 total
Total:
$5,812.00
| After
