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  • Hell Bent Steel Frequently Asked Questions

Hell Bent Steel's FAQ/Instructions



General FAQ

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Is the product in stock?

Yes. We do not list products that are out of stock. Although we do offer our kits through several venues, including eBay and other auction sites, we reserve inventory specifically for our hellbentsteel.com customers. In the rare situation that our inventory does run low, you will be notified of the delay and offered a choice of reasonable compensations for your inconvenience.

Where will I find the best price on a Hell Bent Steel product?

Right here! Although we do offer our kits through several venues, including eBay and other auction sites, we guarantee that you will get the best base price here at hellbentsteel.com. If you see an ad for a HBS product offering a lower price anywhere online, call us 801.731.7911, and we will match it.

Is the product being shipped from Hell Bent Steel?

Yes, absolutely. We manufacture all of our own leveling kits right here in the United States of America. Our leveling kit manufacturing operation is located in northern Utah and we ship all of our leveling kits from our facility here. Most of our competitors cannot guarantee where the kits will be shipped from because they are resellers, rather than manufacturers. We have in house quality control. Someone from the dedicated HBS staff inspects each part for quality assurance. That is why we can offer a lifetime guarantee on all of our products.

When will the product ship?

We make every effort to process and ship your item within one business day of confirmed payment. That means that if you order and pay for an item on Monday afternoon, your order will be processed and shipped on Tuesday morning. Also, our orders usually leave our facility around 3 PM MST, so if you order online or place an order over the phone before then it will usually ship the same day. Keep in mind that if you place an order Friday afternoon or over a weekend/holiday, your order will not be processed until the following business day.

Which carrier will deliver the product?

We ship our leveling kits Priority Mail through the United States Postal Service so you must provide a PO Box if you do not receive mail at your home/business address. All air intake systems are shipped UPS.

How long will it take to receive the product?

The USPS estimated delivery time everywhere within the USA is 2-3 business days. What that means is that if you place an order on Monday afternoon, your order will be processed and shipped Tuesday morning and you can expect delivery no later than Friday, and in most cases as early as Thursday. Keep in mind that items ordered on Friday afternoons do not ship out until Monday morning for delivery on Wednesday or Thursday. We find that in states neighboring Utah, next day delivery is not uncommon.

What happens if the product isn't delivered within the given time frame?

Delays in delivery are rare and usually avoidable. We strive to process and ship your item within 24 hours, so you should receive an email with shipping confirmation/tracking information within that time frame. If you do not receive this information, please call us toll free at 877.731.7911 so that we can resolve the issue immediately. Almost without exception, any delay in delivery is due to a non-deliverable mailing address. We ship all leveling kits through the United States Postal Service; therefore, the address provided must accept regular postal mail. We do ship to P.O. Boxes. The air intake systems are shipped through UPS, so a physical address is required when purchasing an AIS.

What do I do if I receive the wrong product?

Although mistakes are rare, they do happen. If the error is ours, we will gladly exchange the kit as quickly as possible with no charge to you. If the wrong kit was ordered we will also exchange the kit; you will only be charged the cost of the replacement shipping. If an exchange cannot be made we will accept the returned kit and refund your money. There will be a restocking fee of 20%.

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Dodge Instructions

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Dodge FAQ

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What is the Dodge "Death Wobble", and what can be done about it?

Hell Bent Steel's Disclaimer of Dodge vibrations:

Due to a design issue with Dodge Ram front differential and suspension, some owners may experience a vibration in the front end when in 4x4 mode, or a violent shaking vibration of the front wheels when going over a bump at speed. These two symptoms are often called a “death wobble”, but actually appear to be two different problems with the Ram truck.

The 4HI mode vibration is a vibration or shudder that occurs when accelerating in 4x4 high mode. This affects Dodge Ram 1500 non Mega Cabs; Dodge could not discover why their stock trucks would do this for some customers. The solution for Dodge was to state that there is no problem and that all of the new Rams will shudder or shake when in 4x4 high. This symptom appears isolated to 2006-2008 1500 non-Mega Cab model trucks when in 4-hi mode, although not all of the trucks will exhibit the problem.

The steering wobble or vibration has to do with the steering/ball joint equipment. Dodge has released a TSB about this problem: Daimler Technical Service Bulletin # 22-005-06. This affects 1994-2008 Dodge Ram 1500MC/2500/3500 4x4's.

In either case, it has become apparent that raising or lifting the front of the Dodge Ram pickup may amplify these existing OEM problems. In some cases the symptoms exist on non-modified stock vehicles.

It is Hell Bent Steel's position that if you have installed a 110-200-001, 110-250-001 or 120-200-001, 120-250-001 kit onto your Dodge Ram truck and experience either of the two symptoms mentioned, IMMEDIATELY HAVE THE LEVELING KIT REMOVED FROM THE VEHICLE!

Hell Bent Steel offers a 2" kit and a 2.5" leveling kit, how do I determine which one is right for me?

Through extensive testing, we have determined that the trucks vary in height depending on the age and mileage of the truck that is why we offer both 2” and 2.5” kits. For most applications the 2” kit will bring the truck level. In some cases however, it will take 2.5” of lift to bring the truck perfectly level. There is no difference in the build, installation, ride quality or tire clearance between the two kits. The best way to decide which size is best for your truck is to park your truck on level ground, measure from the ground to the top dead center of the wheel-well in both front and back. From the difference in the measurement you can determine which kit is best for your truck.

Will I need to replace the stock shocks with the 2" or 2.5" leveling kit?

No, it is not necessary to replace the stock shocks when adding the 2" or 2.5" leveling kit and using your truck for regular everyday driving. However, if you do a lot of off-roading you may consider going with a longer shock. Most shock manufacturers offer 2"-3" longer shocks that are ideal for use with leveling kits. Most of our customers do not replace their shocks when adding the kit unless the shocks are worn out and they were planning to replace them anyway.

Are the anti-sway bar drop brackets required with the 2" or 2.5" leveling kit?

Although not mandatory, Hell Bent Steel strongly recommends the installation of anti-sway bar drop brackets when installing a 2"-2.5" leveling spacer. When you lift the front of your truck the angle of the anti-sway bar, and attached end links, is changed. The drop brackets lower the mounting position of the anti-sway bar allowing the bar and the connected end links to return to their stock positions. This also eliminates strain on the end link ball joints and ensures proper clearance between end links and springs. Use the drop brackets to adjust and correct the positions of the anti-sway bar and end links for maximum body roll and sway control.

What size tire can I fit with a 2" or 2.5" leveling kit?

Both size kits were designed and tested with 33” tires on factory wheels. However, we have many customers who are running up to 35” tires with these kits without any problems. Keep in mind that these trucks do vary somewhat depending on age and mileage. If you have custom wheels and backspacing it is impossible to guarantee tire clearance for your specific wheel/tire/backspacing combination without actually seeing your truck. If you are planning to add custom wheels with the leveling kit, you should consult a certified tire/wheel/lift mechanic in your area to ensure there will be clearance. There is little difference in tire clearance between the two kits.

I just received the 2" (or 2.5") leveling kit for the 2006-2010 Ram 1500, Why doesn't the spacer measure 2" (or 2.5") tall?

The ratio of lift to spacer thickness is not one to one. Due to the design of the independent suspension of the truck, when you extend the strut by 1-1/4" (for 2" lift) or 1-3/8” (for 2.5" lift) the angle of the strut becomes steeper allowing the truck to experience approximately 2" or 2.5” of lift, respectively. It is the combination of extending the strut and the change in angle that gives the full lift. Once the kit is properly installed and you have the truck aligned, you will see the lift you expect. Remember that the installation is not complete until you have the truck aligned.

Do you make a leveling kit for Dodge Ram 2WD models?

No, unfortunately we do not make a kit for the 2WD trucks at this time. However, check back often as we are always adding new products.

Do you make a any kits taller than the 2.5" lift kit for Dodge Ram 4WD models?

We can build custom size kits upon request. We do not offer a kit taller than 2.5" as a standard stock product because it not advised to install a taller kit without replacing other components of the vehicle. Kits taller than 2.5" require longer shocks as well as several other components. Installing a taller kit without replacing those components will result in front-end instability (Death Wobble). We are working toward putting a complete kit together that will have all of the necessary components to safely lift your truck 3". We anticipate the kit be ready for production and sale within the next couple of months.

I’ve read that powder coating is not as good as people claim. Which is really better, powder coating or paint?

We prefer powder coating to paint, and here is why: powder coating is just plain tougher. We have experimented with several types of finishes and determined that for this application powder coating is the superior choice. There are some excellent automotive grade paints that, when applied correctly, can be durable, but bottom line is that paint is still not as tough as powder coating. Powder coating is sprayed on and heat cured for excellent durability. Anyone who claims that powder coating isn't as good, just hasn’t seen it done well; in a side-by-side comparison the difference is apparent.

Can I use this kit with my truck already lifted?

No, absolutely not. This kit was designed and tested on stock vehicles only and should never be used in conjunction with any other lift or leveling kit. Doing so would void any warranty or guarantee offered by Hell Bent Steel.

Will the kit affect the ride-quality of my truck?

No, the factory quality ride will be maintained.

Will installing the kit affect my factory warranty?

The dealers in our area have told us that the kit does not affect the warranty because it is a bolt-on application and the customer could just remove the kit if a warranty issue arose. However, we cannot speak for DODGE. We recommend that if you are concerned about this that you check with your own dealer so you have an exact answer from Dodge.

How difficult is the installation? Can I install the kit myself?

Hell Bent Steel strongly recommends that the installation be performed by a certified mechanic who has experience with lift/leveling kits. The installation is not difficult for those who have experience working on their vehicle. The installation does not require any special tools, such as a spring compressor. If the installer has experience with suspension work, the installation should take 1-2 hours.

CLICK HERE to view and download P/N: 110-200-001/110-250-001 illustrated installation instructions.

CLICK HERE to view and download P/N: 120-200-001/120-250-001/125-200-001/125-250-001 illustrated installation instructions.

PLEASE NOTE:

Hell Bent Steel recommends leveling kits be installed by a CERTIFIED MECHANIC.

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Ford Instructions

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Ford FAQ

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Hell Bent Steel offers a 2", 2.5" kit and a 3" leveling kit, how do I determine which one is right for me?

Through extensive testing, we have determined that the trucks vary in height depending on the age and mileage of the truck that is why we offer a 2", 2.5” and 3” kit. For most applications the 2.5” kit will bring the truck level (2" for the 2009-2010 models). In some cases however, it will take 3” of lift to bring the truck perfectly level. There is no difference in the build, installation, ride quality or tire clearance between the two kits. The best way to decide which size is best for your truck is to park your truck on level ground, measure from the ground to the top dead center of the wheel-well in both front and back. From the difference in the measurement you can determine which kit is best for your truck.

Hell Bent Steel offers an all steel spacer kit and a machined billet aluminum spacer kit, which one is better?

Both the powder-coated steel and the machined aluminum kits are designed and manufactured to high quality standards. The kits are equally strong in this application. The steel kit has been an extremely popular kit over the last 5 years. We designed the aluminum kit in response to customer requests for billet aluminum products to dress-up their vehicles. So, it comes down to personal preference. The aluminum kit is precision machined billet aluminum. The steel kit is a heavy duty robotic welded part that has a matte black powder-coated finish. Either kit will perform to the highest standard as a 2.5" or 3" leveling kit.

Why doesn't the spacer measure 2", (2.5" or 3") tall?

The ratio of lift to spacer thickness is not one to one. Due to the design of the independent suspension of the truck, when you extend the strut by 1-1/4" (for 2" lift), 1-5/8" (for 2.5" lift) or 1-3/4” (for 3" lift) the angle of the strut becomes steeper allowing the truck to experience approximately 2", 2.5" or 3” of lift, respectively. It is the combination of extending the strut and the change in angle that gives the full lift. Once the kit is properly installed and you have the truck aligned, you will see the lift you expect. Remember that the installation is not complete until you have the truck aligned.

What size tire can I fit with a 2.5" or 3" leveling kit?

Both size kits were designed and tested with 33” tires on factory wheels. However, we have many customers who are running up to 35” tires with these kits without any problems. Keep in mind that these trucks do vary somewhat depending on age and mileage. If you have custom wheels and backspacing it is impossible to guarantee tire clearance for your specific wheel/tire/backspacing combination without actually seeing your truck. If you are planning to add custom wheels with the leveling kit, you should consult a certified tire/wheel/lift mechanic in your area to ensure there will be clearance. There is little difference in tire clearance between the two kits.

How difficult is the installation? Can I install the kit myself?

Hell Bent Steel strongly recommends that the installation be performed by a certified mechanic who has experience with lift/leveling kits. The installation is not difficult for those who have experience working on their vehicle. The installation does not require any special tools, such as a spring compressor. If the installer has experience with suspension work, the installation should take 1-2 hours. CLICK HERE to view and download the illustrated installation instructions.

PLEASE NOTE:

Hell Bent Steel recommends leveling kits be installed by a CERTIFIED MECHANIC.

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Toyota Instructions

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Toyota Tacoma FAQ

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Hell Bent Steel offers a 2.0", 2.5" kit and a 3" leveling kit for the various Tacoma models, how do I determine which one is right for me?

Through extensive testing, we have determined that the Tacoma trucks vary in height depending on the age and mileage of the truck that is why we offer two lift choices for each year/body-style. For most applications the shorter kit will bring the truck level. In some cases however, it will take more lift to bring the truck perfectly level. There is no difference in the build, installation, ride quality or tire clearance between the two kits. The best way to decide which size is best for your truck is to park your truck on level ground, measure from the ground to the top dead center of the wheel-well in both front and back. From the difference in the measurement you can determine which kit is best for your truck.

Will these leveling kits fit the 5-lug Tacoma models?

No, the suspension of the 5-lug model is different from the 6-lug model. Our kits only fit 6-lug models.

Why doesn't the spacer measure 2.0", (or 2.5" or 3") tall?

The ratio of lift to spacer thickness is not one to one. Due to the design of the independent suspension of the truck, when you extend the strut by 1" (for 1996-2004 2" lift), 1-1/4" (for 1996-2004 2.5" lift), 1-3/8" (for 2005-2010 2.5" lift) or 1-1/2” (for 2005-2010 3" lift) the angle of the strut becomes steeper allowing the truck to experience approximately 2", 2.5" or 3” of lift, respectively. It is the combination of extending the strut and the change in angle that gives the full lift. Once the kit is properly installed and you have the truck aligned, you will see the lift you expect. Remember that the installation is not complete until you have the truck aligned.

What size tire can I fit with the leveling kit?

Both size kits were designed and tested with 32” tires on factory wheels. However, we have many customers who are running up to 33” tires with these kits without any problems. Keep in mind that these trucks do vary somewhat depending on age and mileage. If you have custom wheels and backspacing it is impossible to guarantee tire clearance for your specific wheel/tire/backspacing combination without actually seeing your truck. If you are planning to add custom wheels with the leveling kit, you should consult a certified tire/wheel/lift mechanic in your area to ensure there will be clearance. There is little difference in tire clearance between the two kits.

How difficult is the installation? Can I install the kit myself?

Hell Bent Steel strongly recommends that the installation be performed by a certified mechanic who has experience with lift/leveling kits. The installation is not difficult for those who have experience working on their vehicle. The installation does not require any special tools, such as a spring compressor. If the installer has experience with suspension work, the installation should take 1-2 hours.

CLICK HERE to view and download the 1996-2004 illustrated installation instructions.

CLICK HERE to view and download the 2005-2010 illustrated installation instructions.

PLEASE NOTE:

Hell Bent Steel recommends leveling kits be installed by a CERTIFIED MECHANIC.

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