How to Lift Your Truck Using Hockey Pucks: A Complete Guide

Are you looking to add some extra height to your truck without breaking the bank? Look no further than using hockey pucks. Yes, you read that right – hockey pucks can be a cost-effective solution to lifting your truck. Not only can this DIY method save you money, but it can also be a fun and rewarding project.

In this complete guide, we will go over the benefits and risks of using hockey pucks to lift your truck, as well as provide step-by-step instructions on how to do it yourself. We’ll also offer some tips and tricks for maintaining your lifted truck.

So, whether you’re a seasoned truck enthusiast or just starting out, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about lifting your truck with hockey pucks.

The Benefits of Using Hockey Pucks to Lift Your Truck

There are many benefits to using hockey pucks to lift your truck. One of the most significant benefits is the cost. Using hockey pucks is a low-cost alternative to traditional lift kits. You can buy a set of hockey pucks for a fraction of the cost of a traditional lift kit.

Another benefit of using hockey pucks is the ease of installation. You don’t need any special tools or skills to install hockey pucks on your truck. All you need is a jack, jack stands, and a few basic hand tools. You can install hockey pucks in a few hours, and you don’t need any mechanical experience.

Using hockey pucks to lift your truck also provides a smoother ride. Traditional lift kits can make your truck feel stiff and uncomfortable. With hockey pucks, you can maintain your truck’s factory ride quality, while still gaining the additional ground clearance you need for off-road adventures.

Hockey pucks are also durable and long-lasting. They are made of a tough rubber material that can withstand extreme temperatures and harsh off-road conditions. You won’t have to worry about your lift kit failing or needing to be replaced any time soon.

Finally, using hockey pucks to lift your truck gives you more options when it comes to customization. You can add or remove hockey pucks as needed to achieve the exact lift height you want. You can also paint or decorate the hockey pucks to match your truck’s color or personal style.

As you can see, there are many benefits to using hockey pucks to lift your truck. Whether you’re looking for a low-cost lift kit alternative, an easy installation process, a smoother ride, durability, or customization options, hockey pucks are a great choice.

Save Money on Lift Kits

1. Low Cost: One of the most significant benefits of using hockey pucks to lift your truck is the cost. Compared to traditional lift kits, hockey pucks are a fraction of the price, making them an affordable option for those on a budget.

2. Easy to Find: Hockey pucks can be found at most sporting goods stores, making them easy to access. This convenience means that you can lift your truck at a moment’s notice, without having to wait for shipping or go to a specialty store.

3. No Special Tools Required: Lifting your truck with hockey pucks is a simple process that requires no special tools. This means that you can do the job yourself without having to pay for professional installation or rent specialized equipment.

4. Customizable: When you use hockey pucks to lift your truck, you can customize the height to your liking. This customization allows you to achieve the exact lift you want without having to settle for a pre-made lift kit.

If you’re looking for an affordable and customizable way to lift your truck, using hockey pucks is a great option. Not only are they easy to find and require no special tools, but they can also save you a significant amount of money compared to traditional lift kits.

The Risks Involved with Lifting Your Truck

While lifting your truck using hockey pucks can be a cost-effective way to get the lift you want, there are some risks involved that you should be aware of. One of the biggest risks is altering the center of gravity of your truck, which can lead to stability issues and increase the risk of rollovers.

Braking distance is another risk to consider. Lifting your truck can significantly increase the vehicle’s weight, which can result in longer braking distances. It can also put more strain on your brakes, leading to premature wear and tear.

Suspension issues are also a potential problem when lifting your truck. The added weight can put more strain on your suspension system, leading to premature wear and tear and even suspension failure.

Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that lifting your truck may void your warranty. Any modifications made to your vehicle can affect its warranty coverage, so it’s important to check with your manufacturer before making any modifications.

• Poor Handling and Stability: One of the biggest risks of lifting your truck with hockey pucks is poor handling and stability. Lifting the vehicle changes its center of gravity, making it more top-heavy and prone to tipping over in sharp turns or sudden movements.

• Brake Issues: Another issue you might encounter is with the braking system. Lifting the truck alters the angle at which the brakes operate, reducing their effectiveness and increasing stopping distance. This can be a serious safety concern, especially if you frequently drive in heavy traffic or on steep hills.

• Tire Wear: Lifting your truck can also affect tire wear. The added stress on the tires can cause uneven wear and tear, reducing their lifespan and potentially leading to blowouts or other tire-related problems on the road.

• Suspension Damage: Finally, lifting your truck can cause damage to the suspension system. The added weight and stress can wear out components more quickly, leading to costly repairs down the line. Additionally, using improper materials or techniques to lift the vehicle can put even more strain on the suspension, potentially causing permanent damage.

It is important to weigh the benefits and risks carefully before deciding to lift your truck with hockey pucks. By understanding the potential dangers and taking appropriate precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

One of the risks associated with lifting your truck using hockey pucks is uneven tire wear. When you lift your truck, it changes the geometry of the suspension and steering systems, which can lead to an uneven distribution of weight on your tires.

This uneven weight distribution can cause your tires to wear out more quickly and unevenly, which can be dangerous and expensive to fix. Uneven tire wear can also lead to poor handling and reduced traction, making your truck more difficult to control on the road.

To prevent uneven tire wear, it is important to have your truck’s alignment checked and adjusted after installing the hockey puck lift. It is also important to regularly rotate your tires to ensure that they wear evenly and last as long as possible.

Another way to reduce the risk of uneven tire wear is to choose the right size hockey pucks for your truck. Using pucks that are too large can put extra stress on your tires and suspension, leading to uneven wear and potential safety issues.

Another risk associated with lifting your truck with hockey pucks is the potential for damage to your suspension and steering components. When you lift your truck using an unconventional method, such as hockey pucks, you run the risk of putting additional strain on these crucial components. This can cause premature wear and tear, and potentially lead to costly repairs.

One of the main concerns with using hockey pucks to lift your truck is that they are not designed to bear the weight of a vehicle. This means that they can compress and deform over time, which can cause your suspension and steering components to become misaligned. This can lead to a variety of problems, including excessive tire wear, poor handling, and even the loss of control of your vehicle.

In addition, lifting your truck with hockey pucks can also cause stress on your suspension and steering components because it alters the geometry of your vehicle’s suspension system. This can lead to uneven wear on your tires, which can cause them to wear out more quickly and potentially lead to a blowout while driving.

Finally, using hockey pucks to lift your truck can also cause damage to your steering components, such as your tie rods and ball joints. This is because it changes the angles at which your wheels contact the road, which can cause your steering components to become misaligned and wear out more quickly.

How to Choose the Right Hockey Pucks for Your Truck

Size Matters: One of the most important factors to consider when choosing hockey pucks to lift your truck is the size. You need to ensure that the diameter and thickness of the puck are appropriate for your vehicle’s weight and height. Generally, a standard hockey puck with a diameter of 3 inches and thickness of 1 inch can support up to 1,500 pounds of weight.

Material Quality: Another crucial factor to consider is the quality of the material. Hockey pucks are made of rubber, and not all rubber is created equal. Make sure you choose high-quality pucks that can withstand the weight of your truck without breaking or cracking.

Price: Hockey pucks are relatively cheap, which makes them an affordable option for lifting your truck. However, be careful not to compromise quality for price. Cheap pucks may seem like a good deal, but they can be dangerous and lead to accidents.

Choosing the right hockey pucks can make all the difference in the safety and stability of your lifted truck. By considering the factors mentioned above, you can ensure that you choose the right size and quality of pucks to safely lift your vehicle.

Size and Material Considerations

Size: When selecting hockey pucks to lift your truck, it’s important to choose the right size. Look for pucks that fit snugly between the truck’s body and the suspension components, without being too large or too small.

Material: Not all hockey pucks are created equal. Look for pucks made from high-quality rubber that can withstand the weight of your truck and won’t crack or split over time. Avoid using cheap or poorly made pucks that could potentially fail and cause damage to your vehicle.

Quantity: The number of pucks you’ll need to lift your truck will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the desired height increase. It’s important to use the right amount of pucks to maintain stability and avoid overloading the suspension components.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lifting Your Truck with Hockey Pucks

Gather Materials: Before you start, make sure you have the necessary materials, including jack stands, a hydraulic jack, and four hockey pucks.

Prepare Your Truck: Park your truck on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place the hydraulic jack under the frame of your truck and lift the truck high enough so you can place jack stands under the frame.

Install the Hockey Pucks: Once the truck is securely on the jack stands, place one hockey puck on top of each jack stand. Then, lower the truck back down onto the hockey pucks.

Prepare Your Truck

Clean your truck: Before starting the process, you should wash your truck to remove any dirt or debris that may interfere with the lifting process.

Gather the necessary equipment: Make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment before starting the process, including jack stands, a hydraulic jack, and hockey pucks.

Secure your truck: Make sure your truck is on level ground and put it in park with the parking brake on. Use wheel chocks to prevent any movement while you are lifting your truck with hockey pucks.

Tips and Tricks for Maintaining Your Lifted Truck

Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your truck’s suspension, steering, and other components to identify any wear and tear, damage or issues that need to be addressed before they become more severe.

Tire Pressure Check: Proper tire pressure is critical to maintaining a lifted truck. Check your tire pressure at least once a month, and keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure level.

Alignment and Balance: A lifted truck’s suspension system can cause uneven tire wear, resulting in alignment and balancing issues. It is essential to get the alignment and balancing checked regularly and corrected if necessary.

Proper Cleaning: A lifted truck can get dirtier faster, as the height exposes the undercarriage and wheels to more dust and debris. Regular cleaning and washing are essential to maintain the truck’s appearance and avoid corrosion.

Off-Road Driving: When taking your lifted truck off-road, ensure that it is equipped with proper protection, such as skid plates and brush guards. Additionally, drive at a moderate speed to prevent damage to the truck’s undercarriage and avoid any obstacles that could damage the suspension or steering components.

Regularly Inspect Suspension Components

Suspension components play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and performance of your lifted truck. Make sure to regularly inspect components such as shocks, struts, and springs for signs of wear and damage.

Look out for signs such as uneven tire wear, bouncing or swaying while driving, and a rough or bumpy ride. These could be indications of worn or damaged suspension components that need to be replaced.

Inspect for damage such as leaks, cracks, or rust on the components. Also, check for loose bolts or other hardware that could cause problems. Any issues should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of your truck.

Consider upgrading to high-performance suspension components for better off-road performance and durability. These upgrades can also provide a smoother and more comfortable ride on rough terrain.

Consult with a professional if you are unsure about how to inspect or replace suspension components. A certified mechanic or suspension specialist can provide guidance and ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.

Invest in High-Quality Shocks and Struts

Shocks and struts play a crucial role in maintaining the stability and safety of your lifted truck. They help absorb shock and vibration from the road, improving ride comfort and preventing damage to other components. It’s important to invest in high-quality shocks and struts that are designed specifically for lifted trucks.

Off-road shocks are an excellent choice for lifted trucks, as they are designed to handle rough terrain and provide superior damping. Look for shocks and struts with features like increased oil capacity, heavy-duty seals, and adjustable compression and rebound settings.

It’s also important to ensure that the shocks and struts you choose are compatible with your lift kit. Some lift kits may require specialized shocks and struts to ensure proper fit and function.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your shocks and struts performing at their best. Check them regularly for leaks, damage, or signs of wear and replace them as needed. It’s also a good idea to have them inspected by a professional mechanic at least once a year to catch any potential issues early on.

By investing in high-quality shocks and struts and keeping them well-maintained, you can ensure that your lifted truck stays safe, stable, and comfortable on the road or off-road.

Frequently Asked Questions