Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclosure here.
Upgrading your 2011-2016 Ford F-350 with a lift kit changes how the truck handles loads, carries gear, and fits larger tires. The right kit improves ground clearance and towing geometry without sacrificing too much ride quality or steering control. This guide covers six top-rated lift kits that suit different priorities, from hauling and towing to off-road clearance.We shortlisted options that work specifically for the 2011-2016 F-350 and evaluated them on ride impact, load and towing behavior, and fitment with stock components. Read on for what matters when you choose a lift kit and practical guidance to match a kit to how you use your truck.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall Lift Kit The best all-around lift kit balancing performance, fit, and durability | Superlift 2.5" Level 1 Lift Kit with Shadow Series Shocks for 2011-2016 Ford F-250/F-350 4WD (K1007) |  |
| Best Budget Lift Kit A low-cost kit that raises ride height without breaking the bank | MAXRACING 2-Inch Front Leveling Kit for Ford F250/F350 Super Duty 4WD |  |
| Best Premium Lift Kit Higher-end components, refined tuning, and longer-lasting materials | Superlift K1008 2" Lift Kit with Shadow Series Shocks |  |
| Best Complete Lift Kit A full kit that includes all necessary parts and hardware for installation | Readylift 2.5" Leveling Kit with Track Bar Relocation Bracket for 2011–2016 Ford Super Duty F250/F350 4WD |  |
| Best Heavy-Duty Lift Kit Built for maximum strength and rugged, long-term use in tough conditions | SUPERLIFT Shadow Series 6-8" Shock Box Lift Kit for 2005-2016 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty 4WD |  |
| Best 2.5-Inch Lift Kit A mid-height lift option balancing clearance and everyday drivability | GOFARAUTO 2.5" Front Leveling Kit with Track Bar Bracket for 2011-2024 Ford Super Duty 4WD |  |
1. Superlift 2.5" Level 1 Lift Kit with Shadow Series Shocks for 2011-2016 Ford F-250/F-350 4WD (K1007)
Best Overall Lift Kit
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Set Name | Front and Rear |
| Material Type | Metal |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 2.5 Inches |
This Superlift Level 1 kit raises the front of 2011-2016 Ford F-250/F-350 4WD trucks by 2.5 inches and includes rear blocks, U-bolts, and four Shadow Series shock absorbers to preserve ride quality. Designed as a vehicle-specific, bolt-on package, it is aimed at DIYers who want moderate lift to fit larger tires or level a frequently loaded truck without wholesale suspension changes. The Shadow Series shocks are tuned for the kit so drivers should notice improved control compared with basic spacer lifts, and the included hardware and instructions simplify installation using common hand tools. The kit is made of metal and backed by a limited lifetime warranty, which supports long-term durability for weekend builders. Limitations are the modest lift height if you want a more aggressive look or extreme off-road clearance, and installation still requires mechanical competence and time to align and torque suspension components correctly.
Best for: Someone who wants a balanced, factory-friendly lift for a 2011-2016 Ford F-250/F-350 4WD that improves tire clearance and preserves daily driving comfort while remaining installable by a competent DIY mechanic.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking large lifts for extreme off-road use, show-style stance, or those unwilling to perform a hands-on installation and alignment should look elsewhere.
- Vehicle-specific fitment for 2011-2016 F-250/F-350 4WD simplifies installation and fit checks
- Includes Shadow Series shocks tuned for this lift to help maintain ride quality
- Comes with front and rear components plus necessary hardware for a complete bolt-on kit
- Moderate 2.5" lift is practical for adding larger tires while keeping truck rake and everyday drivability
- 2.5-inch lift is limited for buyers seeking aggressive height or serious off-road clearance
Verdict: The best overall lift kit that balances ride quality, component quality, ease of installation, and long-term durability for most DIY mechanics and weekend builders.
2. MAXRACING 2-Inch Front Leveling Kit for Ford F250/F350 Super Duty 4WD
Best Budget Lift Kit
| Fit vehicle | 2005-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty 4WD (note: does not fully level 2017 models) |
|---|---|
| Position | Front |
| Lift height | 2 Inch Front |
| Material | Aluminum |
This MAXRACING 2-inch front leveling kit uses billet aluminum spacers and supplied hardware to raise the front of compatible Super Duty 4WD trucks roughly 2 inches. It installs as a bolt-on spacer between the coil spring and strut top, so installation is straightforward for a home mechanic and generally takes a couple hours per side with basic tools. The aluminum construction resists corrosion better than plastic and the kit is intended to restore a level stance and allow slightly larger tires. Because it is a simple spacer kit it does not change suspension geometry beyond ride height and it does not include upgraded shocks or extended brake lines, so handling and ride comfort remain largely stock. The kit notes a compatibility caveat for certain 2017 models and Tremor-trim trucks, so verify fit before buying. For buyers who want an inexpensive, quick way to level a Super Duty without major suspension upgrades, this is a practical entry-level option; those seeking improved damping or heavy-load leveling should look at more complete kits.
Best for: Buyers who want an affordable, do-it-yourself way to level a 2011–2016 Ford F-350 and accept a simple spacer solution rather than a full suspension overhaul.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently carry heavy loads, tow regularly, or want improved damping and handling should choose a more comprehensive leveling or lift kit with matched shocks and hardware.
- True 2-inch front lift to noticeably level the truck stance
- Billet aluminum spacers for better durability and corrosion resistance than plastic alternatives
- Bolt-on design that installs with common tools and minimal cutting or modification
- Does not include upgraded shocks or additional suspension components so ride and handling stay stock
Verdict: The best budget lift kit for buyers who need a reliable height increase and basic components at a low price while accepting simpler hardware and fewer premium features.
3. Superlift K1008 2" Lift Kit with Shadow Series Shocks
Best Premium Lift Kit
| Fitment | 2011-2016 Ford F-250 / F-350 4WD |
|---|---|
| Maximum Lifting Height | 2 Inches |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel, Aluminum |
| Set Name | Shadow Series |
This Superlift K1008 kit raises the rear of 2011-2016 Ford F-350 4WD by 2 inches using a rear block and U-bolt kit plus four Shadow Series shock absorbers tuned for this application. It is a bolt-on, vehicle-specific solution intended to correct rear rake when you frequently carry heavy loads or want room for larger tires. The included Shadow Series shocks have compression and extension lengths matched to the kit, which improves ride control compared with simple spacer kits. Installation is straightforward with basic hand tools for an experienced DIYer, but buyers seeking the finest alignment and handling should budget for professional alignment after fitting. The kit is built from alloy steel and aluminum and is manufactured in the USA, which supports durability and corrosion resistance. Limitations are its 2-inch height, which is moderate compared with taller performance lifts, and that it only addresses the rear suspension so a front-leveling or complementary front kit is required if you want a full-vehicle lift match.
Best for: Buyers who want a durable, factory-focused rear leveling solution for their 2011-2016 F-350 and place priority on refined suspension tuning and long-term build quality.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a taller performance lift or a full front-and-rear leveling system should consider higher-height or full-kit alternatives instead.
- Vehicle-specific design for 2011-2016 Ford F-250/F-350 4WD reduces fitment guesswork
- Includes Shadow Series shocks tuned for the kit to improve rear ride control
- Made from alloy steel and aluminum for improved strength and corrosion resistance
- 100% bolt-on installation with necessary hardware included
- Provides only a moderate 2-inch rear lift and does not raise the front
- May require professional alignment and complementary front components for balanced handling
Verdict: The best premium lift kit for owners who prioritize superior materials, refined suspension tuning, and enhanced durability even if it costs more and may require professional alignment.
4. Readylift 2.5" Leveling Kit with Track Bar Relocation Bracket for 2011–2016 Ford Super Duty F250/F350 4WD
Best Complete Lift Kit
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Material Type | Cast Iron |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 2.5 Inches |
This ReadyLIFT 2.5" leveling kit is a vehicle-specific front lift solution designed to give 2011–2016 Ford Super Duty 4WD trucks a near-level stance while retaining factory ride quality. Intended for DIY mechanics, the kit bundles powder-coated steel coil spring spacers, an OEM-style cast iron track bar relocation bracket, sound isolators, shock extensions, and sway bar frame mount spacers so you can correct track width and maintain steering geometry after raising the front. Installation is bolt-on with no cutting or drilling required, and the shock extensions let you keep the factory shocks rather than replacing them. The included components minimize the need to source extra parts, and the sound isolators help preserve a quiet, controlled ride. Limitations are that this is a front leveling kit only and does not replace a full multi-inch lift system or include rear block components for a matched lift; customers wanting bigger lifts or full suspension control-arm replacements will need a more complete SST or big-lift package.
Best for: DIY mechanics who want a single, vehicle-specific kit that bundles the key front leveling components and hardware to install a controlled 2.5-inch lift without sourcing extra parts.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking a full multi-inch suspension overhaul, rear lift matching, or upgraded control arms should choose a complete SST or big-lift system instead.
- Vehicle-specific design for 2011–2016 Ford Super Duty 4WD reduces fitment guesswork
- Includes track bar relocation bracket to correct track width after lift
- Shock extensions allow reuse of factory front shocks to preserve ride quality
- Bolt-on installation with no cutting or drilling required
- Front-only leveling solution so rear components or full lift control arms are not included
Verdict: The best complete lift kit for DIY mechanics who want a single purchase that includes leveling components, control arms or track bars, hardware, and detailed instructions to minimize additional parts sourcing.
5. SUPERLIFT Shadow Series 6-8" Shock Box Lift Kit for 2005-2016 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty 4WD
Best Heavy-Duty Lift Kit
| Fitment | 2005-2016 Ford F-250 / F-350 Super Duty 4WD |
|---|---|
| Lift Height | 6-8 inch lift |
| Includes | Front & Rear Shadow Series Shocks |
| Manufacturer | Superlift Suspension |
This Superlift Shadow Series shock box is a full lift kit built to raise 2005–2016 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty 4WD trucks 6 to 8 inches while replacing front and rear shocks with factory-style components. Typical use is for heavy-duty owners who want a substantial ride height increase for bigger tires, improved ground clearance, and tougher off-road geometry. The kit emphasizes beefed-up suspension hardware and Shadow Series shocks that are machined for durability and consistent damping under load. Because it is a vehicle-specific kit it simplifies installation planning and keeps components matched front to rear, which helps stability when towing or carrying heavy payloads. Limitations include the need for professional alignment and possible additional mods such as brake line extensions, driveline tuning, or bump-stop adjustments when lifting in this range, and installation may be more involved than a simple leveling kit. For heavy-duty applications the kit offers a strong, purpose-built solution but expect to address other fitment and alignment needs after installation.
Best for: Buyers who need a heavy-duty, vehicle-specific lift that supports larger tires, more ground clearance, and stronger shock hardware for frequent off-road use or towing.
Less Ideal for: Drivers looking for a simple leveling lift or a weekend bolt-on upgrade without further suspension or driveline adjustments should consider milder kits instead.
- Designed specifically for 2005–2016 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty 4WD for direct fitment planning
- Shadow Series machined shocks provide robust damping under load for towing and off-road use
- Raises ride height 6–8 inches to accommodate larger tires and increased ground clearance
- Manufactured in the USA with components intended for enthusiast and heavy-duty use
- 6–8 inch lifts typically require additional modifications like brake line extensions and driveline tuning not included in the kit
Verdict: The best heavy-duty lift kit for users who need reinforced components, thicker materials, and beefed-up mounting hardware to handle heavy loads, towing, or frequent off-road use.
6. GOFARAUTO 2.5" Front Leveling Kit with Track Bar Bracket for 2011-2024 Ford Super Duty 4WD
Best 2.5-Inch Lift Kit
| Maximum Lifting Height | 3 inches |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front |
| Material Type | Aluminum |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
This GOFARAUTO 2.5-inch leveling kit is designed to lift the front of 2011-2024 Ford Super Duty 4WD trucks about 2.5 inches to reduce nose-down rake and create clearance for up to 35-inch tires. The kit includes a track bar relocation bracket to keep the axle centered, urethane isolators and aluminum spring spacers to raise ride height while minimizing additional noise, shock extensions to prevent interference with the original shocks, and sway bar drops for proper anti-roll bar clearance. Installation preserves the factory shocks so you keep near-stock ride quality and damping characteristics. The aluminum components help resist corrosion and reduce unsprung weight compared with heavier steel spacers. Limitations include compatibility exceptions such as Tremor editions and the possibility that trucks with a 3-inch rear factory block may end up just shy of perfectly level front-to-back. For owners who want a modest, factory-friendly lift and easier tire upgrades without a full suspension overhaul, this kit provides the necessary hardware and a straightforward path to improved clearance.
Best for: Buyers who want a moderate front lift that improves ground clearance and allows larger tires while preserving near-stock ride comfort and handling.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a heavy-duty lift, extreme off-road travel, or a multi-inch suspension overhaul should choose a full lift kit with upgraded control arms and shocks instead.
- Includes track bar relocation bracket to maintain axle alignment after lift
- Retains factory shock absorbers using supplied shock extensions
- Urethane isolators and silent gaskets reduce noise while raising ride height
- Aluminum spacers resist corrosion and keep unsprung weight lower than steel
- Not compatible with Tremor editions
- May not produce a perfectly level stance on trucks with a 3-inch rear factory block
Verdict: The best 2.5-inch lift kit for buyers seeking a moderate ride-height increase that improves ground clearance and tire fitment while retaining near-stock handling and ride comfort.
Choosing the Right 2011-2016 Ford F-350 Lift Kit: Key Factors to Consider
Towing and Load Geometry
A lift changes the angles of the suspension and driveline, which directly affects towing stability and hitch height. For an F-350 often used with heavy trailers, maintaining proper hitch geometry prevents excessive tongue weight on the rear axle and reduces the risk of trailer sway.
Consider how the kit shifts the pinion and driveshaft angles, and whether it necessitates a drop hitch or adjustable ball mount. Kits that maintain manufacturer-recommended axle angles or that include correction components help preserve braking and steering behavior when towing heavy loads. If you frequently tow close to the truck's rated capacity, favor kits designed to minimize changes to factory tow geometry.
Load Capacity and Suspension Sag
The F-350 is often used with heavy payloads that compress springs and alter ride height. A lift kit can change how the springs and shocks respond under load, which affects handling and safety.
Evaluate whether the kit is compatible with the truck's factory leaf springs or coil springs (depending on configuration) and how it interacts with load-assist features. Some kits include heavier-duty components or recommend upgraded shocks to manage sag. If you carry heavy loads routinely, prioritize kits that retain or improve load-carrying characteristics rather than merely providing static lift.
Steering, Handling, and On-Road Comfort
Increased ride height affects steering geometry, roll center, and the truck's center of gravity. Those changes can introduce more body roll, altered steering feel, or increased torque steer under load if not properly addressed.
Look for kits that include hardware to correct steering angles or that are engineered to maintain stock handling balance. Pay attention to recommended shock valving and bump stop changes to preserve on-road comfort. For owners who spend most of their miles on pavement, minimizing negative handling effects should be a higher priority than maximum lift height.
Tire and Brake Clearance
One common reason to install a lift is to run larger tires. However, increased tire diameter requires adequate clearance for the wheel well and brakes, and may change final drive ratios.
Confirm the maximum tire size compatible with the selected lift and whether wheel spacers or different offset wheels are recommended. Also check brake caliper clearance and whether upgraded or recalibrated brake components are advised. Properly sized tires with matching gearing will preserve drivability and braking performance.
Installation Complexity and Additional Parts
Lift kits vary from simple spacer-style installations to multi-hour systems needing shock, brake line, and driveline modifications. Installation complexity affects total cost and whether professional installation is needed.
Consider whether the kit requires new control arms, track bars, extended brake lines, or a pinion angle shims. Factor in labor, potential alignment, and any required welding or frame work. If you plan DIY installation, choose a kit with clear instructions and minimal additional parts; for complex systems, budget for shop time.
Durability and Maintenance
Heavy-duty use places extra stress on suspension components. A lift that is not robustly engineered can accelerate wear on ball joints, U-joints, and steering components.
Assess the materials and construction of the kit's structural components, warranty or support options, and whether routine inspections are recommended. Consider whether the kit's geometry increases maintenance intervals or requires replacing wear items more frequently. Durability is especially important if the truck sees off-road use or frequent heavy towing.
How Lift Height Affects Performance and Safety
Small lifts provide modest ground clearance and often have minimal effect on handling, while larger lifts significantly alter center of gravity and steering geometry. For the F-350, even a few inches can change how the truck behaves when loaded or towing.
When deciding on height, weigh the benefits of additional clearance against increased body roll, possible speedometer inaccuracy from larger tires, and greater stress on steering components. Matching lift height to your normal use—worksite access, agricultural trails, or occasional off-road—is key.
- Lower lifts typically preserve towing geometry better than high-lift setups.
- Higher lifts may require braking or driveline modifications.
- Consider hitch height changes and whether a drop hitch will be needed.
Fitment Notes for 2011-2016 F-350 Chassis
Kits listed for this year range are sized for the F-350's heavy-duty frame and axle configurations. Pay attention to whether your truck uses factory options such as front axle type and cab configuration, because those details can affect fitment.
Also verify whether a kit supports the truck's GVWR and towing package. Some lift components are engineered specifically to work with heavier-duty springs and higher load ratings common to the F-350.
- Confirm front axle and suspension variant before ordering.
- Check whether the kit requires upgraded shocks or extended brake lines.
- Look for documented fitment across the 2011-2016 year span.
Alignments and Post-Install Setup
After installation, a professional alignment is essential to restore proper tire wear and steering geometry. Lift kits can change caster, camber, and toe, and correcting those angles reduces premature tire wear and preserves handling.
You may also need to recalibrate electronic systems that rely on ride height, such as sensors or suspension control modules. Confirm whether your kit or installer recommends an alignment with the truck at typical operating weight to account for sag under load.
- Schedule an alignment immediately after installation.
- Bring any necessary load when aligning if you normally tow or carry heavy loads.
- Inspect steering and driveline components after the first few hundred miles.
Tire, Wheel, and Gear Ratio Considerations
Fitting larger tires may require changes to wheel offset and may affect final drive performance. For heavy-duty use, oversized tires increase rotational mass and can reduce acceleration and fuel economy while increasing drivetrain wear.
If you plan larger tires, consider whether a regear is advisable to restore drivability. Also check clearances for wheels, brakes, and running gear to avoid rubbing during full suspension travel.
- Verify maximum recommended tire diameter for each lift height.
- Consider regearing if the tire size increases significantly.
- Choose wheels with offsets that maintain proper scrub radius.
Common Installation Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Underestimating the need for supplemental parts is a frequent issue. Brake line extensions, track bar relocation brackets, and extended sway bar links are often required but not included in basic spacer kits.
Another pitfall is neglecting to inspect welds and fasteners after installation; torque settling can loosen hardware. Using a reputable installer or following manufacturer torque specs reduces risk. Finally, ensure any required recalibration of driver aids or sensors is completed so vehicle systems function correctly.
- Confirm the full parts list before starting installation.
- Use a detailed torque checklist and recheck fasteners after initial use.
- Have a professional verify sensor calibrations if the truck has advanced systems.
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Ford F-350 configuration to see the most relevant Lift Kits recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2011-2016 Ford F-350 Lift Kit
Our selection focused on solutions that fit the 2011-2016 Ford F-350 and address common owner priorities for a heavy-duty pickup. We evaluated candidates against several category-specific criteria: fitment to the F-350 chassis and model years, how the kit affects towing and load-carrying geometry, ride quality under typical GVWR conditions, compatibility with larger tires and brake clearance, and the complexity of installation and required additional components. We prioritized kits that preserve or improve steering alignment and driveline angles to avoid undue drivetrain wear.Excluded from our list were options intended only for light-duty pickups, generic lift spacers that do not maintain proper suspension geometry, and kits requiring extensive frame modification. We also excluded systems that do not provide documented fitment for the 2011-2016 F-350. The final picks balance practical tradeoffs between clearance, towing stability, and on-road comfort for owners who use their F-350 for work, towing, or occasional off-road use.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Will adding a lift kit affect my F-350's towing capacity?
A lift by itself does not change the truck's rated towing capacity, but it can alter towing geometry and hitch height. Those changes can affect towing behavior, so address pinion angle and hitch setup to maintain stable towing.
How much does a lift kit installation cost for this F-350 range?
Installation cost varies with kit complexity and local labor rates. Simple spacer-style installs are quicker, while multi-component systems needing alignment, driveline work, or extended brake lines will increase labor time and cost.
Can I install a lift kit myself on a 2011-2016 F-350?
Some kits are DIY-friendly if you have the right tools and mechanical experience. However, complex systems that change steering or driveline geometry are best installed by a professional to ensure safety and correct alignment.
Do I have to regear my F-350 if I fit larger tires after lifting?
Regearing depends on the degree of tire size increase and your driving needs. Larger tires can reduce acceleration and increase engine load; regearing restores performance but is only necessary if drivability is noticeably affected.
Will a lift kit cause faster wear on suspension components?
Larger lifts and heavier tires can increase stress on ball joints, U-joints, and steering parts, which may accelerate wear. Choosing a kit designed for heavy-duty use and following maintenance schedules helps mitigate premature wear.
Are there legal or inspection issues to consider after lifting the truck?
Local regulations vary. Some areas limit maximum lift height or require specific lighting and bumper heights. Check local laws and inspection requirements before altering ride height to ensure compliance.
Final Verdict
Picking the right lift kit for a 2011-2016 Ford F-350 means balancing clearance goals with towing stability, load-carrying behavior, and long-term durability. Prioritize kits that preserve or correct suspension and driveline geometry if you tow or haul frequently, and plan for alignment and any supplemental components required for safe operation.Choose based on how you use the truck: modest lifts for improved tire options and clearance with minimal handling change, or more comprehensive systems if off-road clearance is the priority. With careful selection and proper installation, a lift can enhance capability while keeping the F-350 reliable under heavy-duty use.
