Close

DIY | Lowering a Chevy Silverado

BRANDON BURRELL . June 23, 2021 . Editor
Save ArticleLogin to save it

Lowering a Chevy Silverado!

Whether your truck is lifted, lowered, bagged or bodied. Making sure it has the right stance for your style and needs is important. Since you’re reading this, we’re guessing the style we left out—stock—isn’t something you’re too fond of. That’s why, when we had the chance to get our hands on this 2019 Chevy Silverado Crew Cab and upgrade the stock suspension with a 3-inch/5-inch lowering kit, we up the install and got the parts ordered.

2019 Chevy Silverado

The truck already had a set of 26-inch wheels and tires. So this mild drop would set the truck down closer to the tires and lose the massive wheel gap. To handle the install, we teamed up with the crew at Counts Kustoms in Las Vegas. If you follow through the install photos, you can see that if you have basic wrenching skills and access to a lift, or even jack stands, you can knock this install out with a couple friends.

For the parts, we reached out to IHC Suspension and got its 2019 Chevy/GMC 2WD and 4WD lowering kit with helper bags (Part # IHC-1920GMCk-35), which retails for $1,400 and comes with everything you’ll need to tackle this install.

This kit will lower the front of the truck 3 inches and the rear 5 inches. This will eliminate the factory rake that all trucks come with and let the truck sit level. With it including the rear helper bags, it ensures when loading the bed or towing a trailer, the truck won’t have any sag in the rear and will still ride and handle nicely.

The front kit comes with new upper and lower control arms and keeps the factory spindle and strut, which keeps the truck riding the same as stock. The rear requires the leaf springs to be flipped and a new leaf spring hanger to be installed, as well as the helper bags. The install can be done in a day and gives the truck a classy look. Follow along as we show you the basic steps to install this lowering kit on this Chevy Silverado.

2019 Chevy Silverado
The truck is not very “cool looking” with the factory suspension on these massive 26-inch wheels. Lowering the height will give it a more aggressive look and feel more responsive with this wheel and tire setup.
IHC Suspension for a Chevy Silverado
We reached out to IHC Suspension and got its 2019 Chevy/GMC 2WD and 4WD lowering kit with helper bags (Part # IHC-1920GMCk-35), which retails for $1,400 and comes with everything you’ll need to tackle this install.

Front

After getting the truck off the ground and the wheels off, start by removing any brackets on the front spindles and control arms to free up the brake lines and sensor wires. Also, unbolt the caliper and tie the caliper out of the way, ensuring to keep pressure off of the brake line.

Remove the tie rod end from the spindle and push the tie rod out of the way.
Unbolt the lower control arm from the spindle.
Unbolt the upper control arm from the top of the spindle to install the lowering for a Chevy Silverado
Unbolt the upper control arm from the top of the spindle.
Remove the three bolts from the top of the strut.
Unbolt the bottom of the strut from the lower control arm and remove the strut, but set it aside, as it will be used with the lowering kit
Remove the two bolts holding in the upper control arm.
Before removing the upper control arm, now that you have access to the sensor bracket, remove it and push the lines to the side. It will be reinstalled on the new upper control arm.
Install the new IHC lower control arm and bolt it in using the factory hardware from the factory control arm.
Install the supplied ball joint into the upper control arm.
Once the ball joint is installed, bolt in the IHC upper control arm using the factory hardware.
Reinstall the factory strut and bolt the stock spindle to the new lower control arm.
Bolt the new upper control arm ball joint to the factory upper spindle mount.
Reinstall the brake caliper bracket and torque all bolts to factory specs. Once you do both sides the same, the front end is ready to have the wheels installed.

REAR

Remove both stock bump stops to allow for more clearance. With the new helper bags, you won’t need them.
Cut off the bump stop brackets and grind them smooth.
Unbolt the rear leaf spring hangers.
Unbolt the front leaf spring hangers. Thankfully, GM decided to flip the front driver-side bolt, so the gas tank doesn’t have to be removed like the previous generations did.
Making sure the rear axle is supported, unbolt the U-bolts that hold the leaves to the axle.
As you can see, the new IHC rear shackle (on the left) is shorter than the stock one. Installing this will give you the extra drop needed that flipping the rear leaves need to get you to the 5-inch drop.
Make sure the leaf springs are securely clamped together, and then remove the center bolt and stock U-bolt bracket.
The factory spring perches have to be removed since the leaves will now be below the axle.
Install the new leaf spring center bolt and the lower bag bracket on top of the leaf pack.
IHC axle bracket
The new IHC axle bracket bolts to each leaf pack to center the axle to the leaves.
Bolt the brake line brackets in the supplied holes in the axle brackets using the factory hardware.
. Install the lower leaf pack bracket and bolt the stock U-bolts to it. This secures the leaf packs to the bottom of the axle, giving you most of the drop needed.
Press the shock bushing sleeves into the ends of the supplied shorter shocks.
Bolt the new shocks to the factory shock mounting points. The factory hardware you removed when removing the stock shocks.
Bolt the upper bag brackets together on each side. They sandwich the frame and secure the mounting point for the top of the helper bags.
Bolt in the supplied air bags and run the airline that’s included with the kit to your desired accessible location. For this set up, the truck owner opted to run them to the rear bumper. Use shop air and a Schrader valve any time he needs to inflate the air bags. When this is done, the rear is complete and ready to install the wheels.
an alignment was done on the truck, it was ready to go. As you can see, it now sits closer to the tires and eliminates the wheel gap. It also sits level and has a much classier look than it did at stock height.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

What are some of the most popular slammed Chevy and GMC trucks?

Top 10 Popular Slammed Chevy and GMC Trucks

When it comes to slammed trucks, there’s no denying the allure of a perfectly lowered Chevy or GMC. In an era where lifted trucks dominate, the sight of a clean, low-to-the-ground build can be a refreshing throwback. Let’s dive into a list of the most standout slammed Chevy and GMC trucks that have captured enthusiasts’ hearts.

  1. 1994 Chevy C1500 Custom

Keith Hathaway’s journey into truck customization began back in high school, inspired by a friend’s father who owned a Chevrolet C/K with unique features. The result? A customized 1994 Chevy C1500 that reflects years of passion and personal touch.

  1. 1950 Chevy 3100

Chad Fincher’s 1950 Chevy 3100 isn’t just a truck; it’s a testament to the bonds formed through shared automotive interests. Over years of dedication and collaboration within the truck enthusiast community, Chad’s ride has become a true family member.

  1. 1985 Chevy C-10

Breaking the “built not bought” stigma, the 1985 Chevy C-10 showcases what happens when you combine financial investment with expert craftsmanship. Initially purchased and modified by truck builder Tony Phillips, this ChevyC-10 strikes a perfect balance between personal touch and professional build quality.

  1. 1989 GMC Jimmy

Nick’s love for minitrucks started with his first purchase, a Chevy S-10, at the age of 16. Despite financial constraints during high school, he dreamt of future modifications, which eventually materialized in his stunning 1989 GMC Jimmy.

  1. 1965 Chevy C-10

Ron Palmero’s story begins with the simple idea of minor adjustments. However, the more he delved into custom truck culture, the more ambitions grew, leading to significant transformations on his beautifully restored 1965 ChevyC-10. This build is a classic example of how small ideas can evolve into grand projects.

  1. 2010 GMC Sierra 1500

Albert’s journey with a 2010 GMC Sierra began with a solid foundation and a vision for something bigger. After acquiring the truck in Houston and collaborating with its previous owner Diego, Albert’s passion and creativity turned it into a formidable and eye-catching slammed truck.

  1. 1987 GMC R10

Warren faced one of the common challenges in truck building: finding the right base vehicle. His persistence paid off with the discovery of a 1987 GMC R10. Despite initial doubts, Warren’s dedication transformed a mere engine and body into a sleek, customized masterpiece known as “The Breeze.”

  1. 1970 Chevy Crew-Cab

Family traditions and a lifelong love for trucks culminate in Mike Snead’s 1970 Chevy Crew-Cab. Raised in a family deeply rooted in construction and craftsmanship, Mike’s build pays homage to his background while embracing the truck culture he grew to love.

  1. 1947 Chevy Suburban

Dennis Sever’s journey into the custom truck world is marked by his long-standing love for vintage trucks. His 1947 Chevy Suburban, which stood out even when custom trucks were a rarity, remains a testament to his dedication over the years and his ability to stay ahead of trends.

  1. 1994 GMC 1500

For Robert Sharp, a personal tragedy fueled his commitment to creating a custom truck. Alongside his brother, Robert channeled his passion into crafting a unique vehicle, making significant contributions to the custom truck scene with his 1994 GMC 1500.

Conclusion

Each of these trucks tells a distinct story of dedication, passion, and the unique appeal of slammed Chevy and GMC models. Whether through personal ambition, family tradition, or community bonds, these builds highlight why lowered trucks continue to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.

 

What features contribute to the durability of the lowering kit’s shock system?

The durability of a lowering kit’s shock system hinges on several key features designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Here’s a closer look:

  1. Enhanced Bushing System: A pivotal element is the use of a larger bushing system, crafted to support the increased weight and payload demands of heavy-duty trucks. This robust design ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
  2. Polyurethane Bushings: Polyurethane materials are incorporated into the shock absorbers, offering superior resilience compared to traditional rubber. This choice not only enhances durability but also lowers the risk of premature wear and tear.
  3. Sturdy T-Bar Construction: The inclusion of a 1-inch chromoly T-bar further fortifies the shock system. Chromoly steel is renowned for its strength, providing exceptional support and resistance to bending or breaking.

By integrating these features, the lowering kit’s shock system is engineered for durability, effectively meeting the challenges posed by demanding environments.

 

How does the heavy-duty Pro Coil system address premature failure of shocks and bushings in heavy trucks?

How the Heavy-Duty Pro Coil System Prevents Premature Failure in Heavy Trucks

Premature failure of shocks and bushings in heavy trucks is a common concern for vehicle owners. Fortunately, the heavy-duty version of the Pro Coil system is specifically engineered to tackle this challenge head-on.

Strengthened Components

  1. Enlarged Bushing System:
    • The system features a bushing system that is 25% larger than standard. This enhancement is crucial for managing the additional weight and payload of heavy trucks.
    • Larger bushings mean more surface area to distribute stress, significantly reducing wear and tear.
  2. Advanced Shock Absorbers:
    • Equipped with an upgraded shock, the system includes polyurethane bushings. These materials are chosen for their resilience and longevity, making the system more durable.
    • Additionally, a 1-inch chromoly T-bar is incorporated. Chromoly steel is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, meaning it can withstand significant stress without deforming.

These thoughtful design choices work together to increase the system’s durability while minimizing the risk of premature failure, even under the demanding conditions faced by modern trucks.

 

How does the lowering kit improve ride quality and performance for Chevy Silverado/Sierra trucks?

This kit will lower the front of the truck 3 inches and the rear 5 inches. This will eliminate the factory rake that all trucks come with and let the truck sit level. With it including the rear helper bags, it ensures when loading the bed or towing a trailer, the truck won’t have any sag in the rear and will still ride and handle nicely.

Experience a transformation in both style and performance with this comprehensive lowering kit. Designed specifically for Chevy Silverado and Sierra trucks, it offers maximum adjustability for achieving that perfect stance. The kit includes front coilovers with fully threaded shock bodies, allowing for precise adjustments without the hassle of shims or spacers.

  • Front Coilovers: These provide a drop range of 3″-5″ when used with drop spindles, or 1″-3″ with stock spindles. This flexibility lets you customize your truck’s front end for improved aerodynamics and style.
  • Rear Drop Kit: Offering a drop range of 4″-6″, this component ensures the rear of your truck aligns perfectly with your desired aesthetic.

The upgraded shock system, featuring polyurethane bushings and a robust chromoly T-bar, enhances durability and reduces the chance of premature failure. This means not only an improved ride quality but also a reliable performance that lasts.

With such a kit, you’re not just lowering your truck; you’re elevating its performance to a whole new level.

 

How does the kit improve performance?

The kit enhances ride quality and overall performance, thanks to its design and the adjustable components that allow for a tailored truck setup.

 

What features enhance durability and reduce failure?

The system includes upgraded shocks with polyurethane bushings and a 1-inch chromoly T-bar, which are selected to increase durability and reduce the risk of premature failure.

 

What are the specific drop ranges available?

The front drop can range from 3 to 5 inches with drop spindles or 1 to 3 inches with stock spindles. The rear offers a drop range of 4 to 6 inches, giving you flexibility in customizing the stance.

 

How does the adjustability of the kit work?

The front coilover shock bodies are fully threaded, allowing adjustments without using shims or spacers, while the rear kits provide a 2-inch range to fine-tune the truck’s stance.

 

What components are included in the kit?

The kit comprises front Pro Coil Coilovers and a Rear Drop Kit, designed to provide a comprehensive lowering solution.

 

How does the lowering kit ensure a hassle-free installation process?

This kit will lower the front of the truck 3 inches and the rear 5 inches, eliminating the factory rake that all trucks come with and letting the truck sit level. With it including the rear helper bags, it ensures when loading the bed or towing a trailer, the truck won’t have any sag in the rear and will still ride and handle nicely.

For those concerned about the installation process, this kit is designed with user-friendliness in mind. It features a fully bolt-in design, which means you won’t need any special tools or complex modifications to get the job done. This approach guarantees a hassle-free installation that can be completed with basic tools, making it accessible to both seasoned mechanics and DIY enthusiasts alike.

 

What is the company’s approach to product design?

The company prioritizes user-friendly and thoughtful product design, ensuring that each kit is practical and easy to install.

 

Are special tools required for installation?

No special tools are needed, making it accessible for those without specialized equipment.

 

How is the installation process made easy?

The installation is simplified by the kit’s design, which allows it to be fully bolted in without the need for complex assembly.

 

What is the range of ride height adjustability offered by the lowering kit for Chevy Silverado/Sierra trucks?

This kit will lower the front of the truck 3 inches and the rear 5 inches. This will eliminate the factory rake that all trucks come with and let the truck sit level.

For those looking to customize further, the front coilovers offer a versatile drop range. You can achieve a 3″-5″ drop using drop spindles or a 1″-3″ drop with stock spindles, giving you the freedom to find the perfect stance.

The rear drop kits provide an additional 2” of adjustability, allowing you to fine-tune the final rake. With a total drop range of 4-6” at the rear, you have the flexibility to match the front adjustments seamlessly.

This comprehensive adjustability ensures that whether you’re looking for a subtle change or a more dramatic stance, this lowering kit has you covered.

 

What vehicles are compatible with the lowering kit for the Chevy Silverado/Sierra?

For the parts, we reached out to IHC Suspension and got its 2019 Chevy/GMC 2WD and 4WD lowering kit with helper bags (Part # IHC-1920GMCk-35), which retails for $1,400 and comes with everything you’ll need to tackle this install.

This comprehensive kit is designed to fit a wide range of models, making it a versatile choice for Silverado and Sierra owners. Specifically, it’s compatible with most 2007-2018 Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500 models. However, bear in mind that it’s not suited for the 1500HD models.

Also, it’s important to note that while this kit includes almost everything necessary for installation, axle U-bolts are not part of the package. So, if you’re gearing up for an installation, make sure to source these separately.

With this kit, you can expect a seamless installation process, backed by the assurance of quality components that cater to a broad spectrum of vehicles in the Chevy/GMC lineup.

 

What kind of warranty does the product offer?

The product comes with a lifetime warranty, highlighting its durability and the manufacturer’s commitment to quality.

 

What items are included or missing in the kit?

Axle U-bolts are not included in the kit.

 

Where is this product manufactured?

The product is manufactured in Lakeville, Minnesota.

 

Are there any specific models that the kit does not support?

The kit is not suitable for 1500HD model trucks.

 

Which vehicle models and years can this lowering kit be used with?

The lowering kit fits most Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500 models from 2007 to 2018.


 

You may also like this