If you drive a 2001–2024 GM 2500HD or 3500HD with a torsion bar front suspension, leveling the front end is one of the most common first mods. Whether it’s to clear larger tires or just get rid of that factory rake, cranking the torsion bars can give you the extra height you’re after. But if you’re not upgrading your upper control arms (UCAs), you’re asking for problems—especially with ball joint angles, droop travel, and suspension geometry.

1. What Happens When You Crank the Torsion Bars

When you raise the front of your truck using the factory torsion bars, you're putting more preload on the suspension. This lifts the truck but also rotates the factory upper control arms downward. The result?

• Poor ball joint angles that cause premature wear or binding
• Reduced droop travel (suspension extension limit)
• Uncomfortable ride quality and reduced shock performance

2. The Role of the Upper Control Arm

The UCA connects the upper part of your steering knuckle to the frame and houses the upper ball joint. On a leveled truck, OEM arms often reach their limits, causing the ball joints to operate at extreme angles. This leads to:

• Ball joint failure (especially with off-road or towing use)
• Increased stress on the frame mounts and alignment issues

3. Why Kryptonite Upper Control Arms Are the Upgrade You Need

Kryptonite Upper Control Arms are purpose-built to solve the problems caused by leveling. Here’s why they’re essential:

• Improved Ball Joint Angles: Designed with corrected geometry to maintain proper alignment and joint function at leveled ride heights
• Increased Droop Travel: More travel means a better ride and full use of your suspension’s range
• Stronger Ball Joints: Kryptonite’s signature Death Grip joints are built with oversized housings and 4140 Chromoly studs
• Bolt-In Design: No cutting, welding, or fabrication required—just unbolt the stock arms and install the new ones
• Serviceability: Their ball joints are replaceable, making long-term maintenance easier and cheaper

4. Don’t Forget Your Shocks

If you're lifting the front 1–2", you’ll also want to check your shocks. Stock-length shocks may not have enough travel for the new ride height, which can limit performance and cause topping out. Look for leveled-length shocks like the Fox or Bilstein shocks we offer at DmaxStore to match your setup.

5. Installation: Easier Than You Think

Leveling your GM HD truck and installing Kryptonite UCAs is a bolt-on job that can be done with basic tools in your driveway or at a local shop. Most installs take around 2–3 hours, and the improvement in ride quality and confidence is immediate. We recommend getting an alignment right after installation to ensure optimal tire wear and handling.

Bottom Line

Cranking your torsion bars without upgrading your control arms is a shortcut that can cost you in the long run. Do it right the first time—upgrade to Kryptonite Upper Control Arms and dial in your shock length for the best ride, longest life, and peace of mind.

Have questions? Contact the DmaxStore team—we’re happy to help you build the right setup for your truck.