The discussion surrounding the effects of leveling on an F150's fuel efficiency has become a topic of interest among truck enthusiasts and owners alike. Drawing from personal experience, I’ve driven my F150 for over 10,000 miles, achieving an average of 22.1 MPG. Remarkably, I noticed little to no difference in fuel efficiency after implementing a 2.25" leveling kit on my 2017 ecoboost model. However, it’s worth mentioning that the type of tires used, particularly off-road or heavier varieties, can potentially influence MPG to a certain extent.
Does Leveling a Truck Affect Gas Mileage?
The additional weight and altered aerodynamics of a leveled truck can have a significant impact on gas mileage. By modifying the suspension, the front-end leveling kit raises the front of the truck, resulting in a more level stance. While this may enhance the appearance and provide additional ground clearance, it also creates a larger frontal surface area for wind resistance.
The increased wind resistance caused by leveling the truck can lead to decreased fuel efficiency. As the truck moves through the air, the wind encounters more surface area, creating more drag. This added drag requires the engine to work harder and consume more fuel to maintain speed.
Furthermore, the negative effects on gas mileage are amplified when hauling a heavy load. The additional weight combined with the altered aerodynamics result in an even greater decrease in fuel economy. Hauling a heavy load already requires more power from the engine, and leveling the truck exacerbates this demand.
Ultimately, it’s crucial for truck owners to carefully consider their priorities and weigh the potential decrease in fuel economy against the desired aesthetics and ground clearance offered by a leveled truck. Striking the right balance between appearance and fuel efficiency is key in making an informed decision.
Leveling your truck or SUV by reducing the rake brings a range of benefits, including the ability to fit larger tires and creating more space between the tire and wheel arch. This extra space allows for improved clearance, enhanced off-road capabilities, and a more aggressive look. Moreover, leveling your vehicle can also provide better weight distribution, resulting in improved handling and stability on uneven terrains.
What Are the Benefits of Leveling a Truck?
Leveling your truck or SUV offers numerous benefits that go beyond just aesthetics. One of the primary advantages is the extra space it provides to fit a larger set of tires. By reducing the rake, which is the difference in height between the front and rear of the vehicle, more room is created between the tire and wheel arch. This extra clearance allows for the installation of larger tires, which can enhance both the performance and appearance of your truck.
When the front of a truck sits lower than the rear, it can affect the vehicles balance and create uneven weight distribution. By leveling the truck, you can improve the overall stability and handling characteristics, especially when hauling heavy loads or towing trailers. It helps reduce the strain on the suspension system and promotes better control over various terrains.
Off-road enthusiasts often opt for leveling to gain a higher stance, allowing for better traversing of rough and uneven terrains. The increased ground clearance minimizes the risk of damage to the undercarriage, particularly when driving over rocks, logs, or other obstacles. It also reduces the likelihood of scraping the front of the truck on steep inclines or during off-road adventures.
Many vehicles come from the factory with a noticeable front-end rake, which some truck owners find unappealing. It gives a more aggressive and rugged stance, adding a touch of customization and personalization.
When the front end is raised to match the rear, it helps improve the drivers line of sight, especially in crowded traffic or off-road situations. This increased visibility can be beneficial for safety purposes, as it allows for better anticipation of potential road hazards or obstacles, resulting in a more confident and controlled driving experience.
These benefits not only cater to the individual preferences of truck owners but also contribute to a more enjoyable and versatile driving experience.
Types of Leveling Kits Available for Trucks and SUVs
Leveling kits for trucks and SUVs are aftermarket modifications that aim to elevate the front end of the vehicle to match it’s rear height. There are three main types of leveling kits available: coil spring spacers, torsion keys, and strut extensions.
Coil spring spacers are used to raise the front end by placing the spacers on top of the vehicle’s existing coil springs. They provide a simple and cost-effective way to achieve a level stance, typically resulting in a mild lift.
Torsion keys are specifically for vehicles equipped with torsion bar suspension systems. These kits allow you to adjust the torsion bars, effectively raising the front end. They provide more lift compared to coil spring spacers but may require additional alignment adjustments.
Strut extensions are designed for vehicles with front strut suspensions. These kits include extensions that lengthen the struts, allowing for a lift while maintaining the original suspension components. They’re often considered more convenient to install than other types of leveling kits and provide a moderate lift.
It’s important to note that leveling kits only enhance the appearance and ground clearance of the vehicle. They don’t increase the payload or towing capacity. Before installing any leveling kit, it’s recommended to consult with a professional and ensure it’s compatible with your vehicle’s suspension system.
Source: Leveling Kit Guide: What They Do and What They Cost
Conclusion
In conclusion, the notion that leveling a F150 significantly impacts it’s MPG seems to be largely unfounded. Based on personal experience and anecdotal evidence, it appears that leveling has minimal to no effect on fuel efficiency. With a 2.25" level on a 2017 ecoboost, no noticeable change in MPG was reported. Off-road or heavier tires are likely to have a more pronounced impact on fuel consumption. Therefore, when considering leveling a F150, it’s essential to take into account the choice of tires in order to accurately assess any potential changes in MPG.