I need to do some suspension work to my 97 4x4 so I'm trying to decide between a leveling kit or leveling springs. I'm going to replace the shocks regardless and have decided to go with Bilsteins. I'm running 265/70-17 tires currently and will be looking to up size those but don't need to go too big. I want to keep good street manners but I need to work on the harsh ride off road. My thought is just going to a 285/70-17 or 305/70-17.

Any help is appreciated.

 

i went with Skyjacker front springs & 5100 bilsteins upfront the ride is better then stock but if you want a better off-road ride then a full or partial suspension upgrade is needed

 

I should get some pics, I have Bilstein 5100s with a 2" levelling kit and 1.5" add-a-leafs, 33x12.5 tires on 3rd gen rims, and it looks really really good without being so high that I lose the utility, which is the whole reason I have the truck. Just rebuilt the whole front end with top dollar parts and it has never rode or handled better.

 

So I'm wondering then if it is worth putting new springs in or just going with a leveling kit which is cheaper. Has anyone done both on the same truck and been able to compare them? Taller springs should give more travel but if they are the same rate then the ride should be similar, though they are 2 inches taller. I'm probably splitting hairs with this.