Lift Kit Guide
Best Lift Kits for the
2011 – 2018 Ram 3500: Every Kit Compared
A complete comparison of lift kits for the 2011–2018 Ram 3500 — covering gas and Cummins diesel engines, 4WD configurations, and both the 2011–2012 and 2013–2018 body styles. Lift heights, pricing, fitment notes, and real-world owner feedback for the fourth-generation Ram HD platform.
At a Glance
Quick Comparison
| Brand / Kit | Front Lift | Rear Lift | Fits | Type | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Superlift 2in | +2.0" | +2.0" | 3500 2011–2018 | Complete w/ Shocks | $480 | SHOP → |
| Eibach Pro-Truck | +2.5" | +0–1" | 3500 2011–2018 | Springs & Shocks |
|
SHOP → |
| Fabtech 4.5in Performance | +4.5" | +4.5" | 3500 2011–2013 Diesel | Complete System | $1,530 | SHOP → |
| Fabtech 6in Performance | +6.0" | +6.0" | 3500 2011–2013 Diesel | Complete System | $1,603 | SHOP → |
| Fabtech Basic 5in | +5.0" | +5.0" | 3500 2013–2018 Diesel | Coil Spring System | $1,557 | SHOP → |
| Fabtech Radius Arm 5in | +5.0" | +5.0" | 3500 2013–2018 | Radius Arm System | $1,986 | SHOP → |
| Fabtech 7in Radius Arm | +7.0" | +7.0" | 3500 2013–2018 | Radius Arm System | $2,400 | SHOP → |
Important
What to Know Before You Buy
2011–2012 vs. 2013–2018 Fitment
The 2011–2018 Ram 3500 spans two body styles. The 2011–2012 models share the pre-facelift platform with 2009–2010. The 2013–2018 models received a major redesign with new front suspension geometry and radius arm design. Kits are not interchangeable between these two generations. Superlift and Eibach offer full 2011–2018 coverage; Fabtech splits fitment by generation.
Gas vs. Diesel
Ram 3500 diesel models weigh significantly more than gas models due to the Cummins engine. Many Fabtech kits for 2011–2013 are diesel, automatic transmission only. The 2013–2018 Fabtech Basic Kit (5in) is diesel-only; the Radius Arm kits fit both gas and diesel. Always confirm your engine and transmission before ordering.
Tire Clearance by Lift Height
A 2" lift comfortably clears 33" tires. A 2.5" lift handles 33–35" tires. A 5" lift fits 35" tires cleanly and 37" with minor trimming. A 6–7" lift opens the door to 37–38" tires. The Ram 3500’s solid front axle and fender geometry differ from the 1500 — always confirm backspacing for your wheel and tire combination.
Driveline & Steering Geometry
Lifts above 2.5" change driveshaft angles and can cause vibrations at highway speeds. The 5"+ Fabtech kits include geometry correction components. Budget $200–$600 for driveline corrections on aggressive lifts if not included. A front-end alignment is essential after any lift installation.
Superlift 2in Suspension Lift Kit w/ Shocks
The Superlift 2" Suspension Lift Kit is the most affordable complete lift for the 2011–2018 Ram 3500. Unlike spacer-only kits, this system includes front and rear Superlift shocks valved for the lifted application, so you get a true suspension upgrade at a budget price. The 2" lift comfortably clears 33" tires and maintains factory driveline geometry, so you typically won’t need adjustable control arms or driveline corrections. Superlift has been building truck lifts since 1975, and their Ram HD kits are proven for daily driving and light off-road use.
This kit fits Ram 2500 and 3500 from 2002 through 2018 — the broadest fitment range of any kit on this list. That means one SKU covers both the 2011–2012 and 2013–2018 Ram 3500 body styles. The 2" lift is the sweet spot for Ram 3500 owners who want a modest stance improvement and tire clearance without the complexity of a 4.5" or 6" system. At $480, it’s the lowest-priced complete lift for 2011–2018 Ram 3500 owners.
Pros
- Lowest price complete kit for Ram 3500 ($480)
- Includes front and rear shocks
- Fits full 2011–2018 Ram 3500 range
- 2" lift preserves driveline geometry
- Superlift’s 50+ years of truck lift expertise
Cons
- 2" lift limits tire size to 33"
- Superlift shocks are functional but not premium-tier
- Shared fitment with 2500 — not 3500-specific tuning
Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Kit (Springs & Shocks)
The Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Kit is our Best Overall pick for 2011–2018 Ram 3500 owners. It combines precision-engineered lift springs with sport-tuned shocks to deliver approximately 2.5 inches of front lift and 0 to 1 inch of rear lift depending on configuration. Unlike spacer kits, the Pro-Truck uses race-derived coil springs that maintain full suspension travel and reduce stress on bushings and ball joints. Eibach’s million-mile warranty and Made-in-USA construction make this the most trusted spring-and-shock lift for the Ram 3500 platform.
This kit fits Ram 3500 from 2011 through 2018 — the only complete spring-and-shock kit with full generational coverage. The 2.5" front lift clears 33" tires with ease and many owners run 35s with minor trimming. The balanced lift improves ground clearance without the driveline geometry issues that plague 4.5"+ systems. If you want the best combination of ride quality, durability, and tire clearance for your Ram 3500, the Eibach Pro-Truck is the pick. It’s currently on sale at $930, down from $1,034.
Pros
- Complete springs-and-shocks kit — no spacer design
- 2.5" front lift clears 33–35" tires
- Fits full 2011–2018 Ram 3500 range
- Million-mile warranty, Made in USA
- Currently on sale — $930 (down from $1,034)
Cons
- Modest rear lift (0–1") — levels more than lifts rear
- Moderate lift vs. 5" or 7" Fabtech options
- Requires professional installation
Fabtech 4.5in Performance Suspension System
Fabtech’s 4.5" Performance System is the best value for 2011–2013 Ram 3500 owners with the Cummins diesel and automatic transmission. This is a complete bolt-on system with extended control arm links, premium urethane bushings, coil springs, performance shocks, and all hardware. The 4.5" lift is the sweet spot for Ram 3500 owners who want to clear 35" tires without the complexity of a 6" system. Fabtech’s decades of suspension expertise ensure proper geometry and drivability.
This kit is designed for non-dually Ram 2500 and 3500 4WD models with diesel engines and automatic transmissions from 2009 through 2013. Gas models and manual transmissions require different kits. The 4.5" lift supports larger tires up to 37" with proper wheel backspacing. If you have a 2011–2013 Ram 3500 Cummins and want a complete, trail-ready lift at a reasonable price, the 4.5" Performance System is the pick.
Pros
- Complete system — control arms, springs, shocks, hardware
- 4.5" lift clears 35" tires (37" with trimming)
- Extended control arms maintain proper geometry
- Best value for 2011–2013 diesel Ram 3500
Cons
- Diesel, automatic, non-dually only — 2011–2013 only
- Does not fit 2013–2018 body style
- 4.5" lift may require driveline corrections
Fabtech 6in Performance Suspension System
The Fabtech 6" Performance System delivers the most aggressive lift for 2011–2013 Ram 3500 Cummins owners. This comprehensive system includes extended-length control arm links, coil springs, performance shocks, and all hardware. The 6" lift clears 35" tires easily and accommodates up to 37" with proper wheel and fender setup. Fabtech’s decades of Ram HD suspension expertise ensure proper geometry and drivability at this lift height.
This kit fits 2009–2013 Ram 2500 and 3500 4WD with diesel engines and automatic transmissions only. Gas models and manual transmissions require different kits. Budget for driveline corrections (adjustable control arms, possibly track bar) at this lift height. For 2011–2013 Ram 3500 Cummins owners who want maximum stance and 35–37" tire clearance, the Fabtech 6" Performance System is the aggressive pick.
Pros
- Largest lift for 2011–2013 Ram 3500 (6")
- Complete system with extended control arms
- Clears 35" tires easily, 37" with setup
- Proven Fabtech Ram HD expertise
Cons
- Diesel, automatic only — 2011–2013 only
- 6" lift will require driveline corrections
- Budget extra $300–$600 for geometry parts
Fabtech Basic Kit (5in) w/ Performance Shocks
Fabtech’s Basic 5" Kit is the best trail-ready option for 2013–2018 Ram 3500 diesel owners. This coil spring suspension system replaces the factory bowed springs with Fabtech’s straight coil spring design and patent-pending angled lower mounts — addressing the stiffness and harshness common in stock Ram 3500 suspensions. The 5" lift supports tires up to 37" with minor trimming and maintains factory load-carrying capacity.
This kit is designed specifically for 2013–2018 Ram 3500 4WD diesel models. It does not fit gas engine models or vehicles equipped with factory air suspension. The straight spring design provides a noticeably smoother ride than the factory bowed springs, and the included performance shocks are tuned for the lifted application. If you have a 2013–2018 Ram 3500 Cummins and want improved ride quality with 35–37" tire clearance, the Basic 5" Kit is the pick.
Pros
- Straight coil spring design improves ride over factory
- 5" lift clears 35" tires, 37" with minor trimming
- Maintains factory load-carrying capacity
- Complete kit with performance shocks
Cons
- Diesel only — does not fit gas models
- 2013–2018 only — 2011–2012 need different kit
- No air suspension fitment
Fabtech Radius Arm Kit (5in) w/ Performance Shocks
The Fabtech 5" Radius Arm Kit delivers the best ride quality of any 5" lift for 2013–2018 Ram 3500. By replacing the factory radius arms and coil springs with Fabtech’s tubular radius arms and straight coil springs, this kit addresses the shortcomings of the stock suspension — reducing stiffness and improving response to varying road conditions. The patent-pending angled lower mounts result in a noticeably smoother ride compared to the factory bowed springs.
This kit fits 2013–2018 Ram 3500 4WD models (gas and diesel). The 5" lift supports tires up to 37" with minor trimming and maintains the heavy load capacity Ram 3500 owners rely on. If you want the smoothest possible ride at 5" of lift with improved articulation and off-road capability, the Radius Arm Kit is the pick. Fabtech also offers this system with 2.25" Dirt Logic shocks ($3,383) for serious off-road use.
Pros
- Best ride quality at 5" lift
- Replaces factory radius arms for improved articulation
- Fits gas and diesel 2013–2018 Ram 3500
- Straight coil springs reduce stiffness vs. factory
Cons
- 2013–2018 only
- Higher price than Basic 5" kit
- More complex installation (radius arm replacement)
Fabtech 7in Radius Arm Kit w/ Performance Shocks
The Fabtech 7" Radius Arm Kit delivers the most aggressive lift for 2013–2018 Ram 3500 owners. This premium system replaces the factory radius arms and coil springs with Fabtech’s tubular radius arms and straight coil springs, providing a smoother ride than the factory bowed springs while delivering 7" of lift. The system is tailored to handle large tires up to 38 inches with minor trimming.
This kit fits 2013–2018 Ram 3500 4WD models. The 7" lift opens the door to 37–38" tires and a commanding stance. Fabtech also offers this system with 2.25" Dirt Logic DLSS shocks ($3,846) for serious off-road use. Budget for driveline corrections at this lift height. For 2013–2018 Ram 3500 owners who want maximum stance and tire clearance, the 7" Radius Arm Kit is the aggressive pick.
Pros
- Largest lift for 2013–2018 Ram 3500 (7")
- Radius arm design improves articulation
- Clears 37–38" tires with minor trimming
- Straight coil springs improve ride over factory
Cons
- 7" lift will require driveline corrections
- Most expensive kit on this list ($2,400)
- Budget extra $300–$600 for geometry parts
Fitment Reference
Which Kits Fit Your Ram 3500?
| Configuration | Superlift | Eibach | Fabtech 4.5 | Fabtech 6 | Fabtech Basic 5 | Fabtech Radius 5 | Fabtech 7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ram 3500 2011–2012 (Gas) | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Ram 3500 2011–2012 (Diesel Auto) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Ram 3500 2013–2018 (Gas) | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ram 3500 2013–2018 (Diesel) | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
✓ = Confirmed • ✗ = Excluded (wrong generation or drivetrain)
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do lift kits for 2011–2012 Ram 3500 fit 2013–2018 models?
Not always. The 2013 Ram 3500 received a major redesign with new front suspension geometry and radius arm design. Superlift and Eibach offer kits that fit the full 2011–2018 range. Fabtech splits fitment: their 4.5" and 6" Performance systems fit 2011–2013 diesel only; their Basic 5", Radius Arm 5", and 7" kits fit 2013–2018 only. Always verify your exact model year before ordering.
Do I need new shocks when installing lift springs?
If you’re installing a complete kit that includes shocks (like Eibach Pro-Truck, Superlift, or Fabtech), you’re already covered. If you’re buying springs or spacers only, you should pair them with shocks designed for your new lift height. Factory shocks are valved and travel-limited for stock height — they’ll bottom out or top out at 2"+ lifts. Bilstein 5100 series are a popular aftermarket pairing for lifted Ram 3500s.
Will a lift kit cause driveshaft vibrations?
Lifts of 2" or less rarely cause driveline vibrations on the Ram 3500. At 2.5–3", some trucks may develop a slight vibration at highway speeds. At 4.5"+ lifts, driveshaft angle correction is strongly recommended. Solutions include adjustable lower control arms ($200–$400) to correct pinion angle, or a slip yoke eliminator (SYE) ($300–$500) for the rear driveshaft. Fabtech’s 4.5"+ kits often include geometry correction parts.
What is the difference between a spacer lift and a spring lift?
Spacer lifts place a polyurethane or aluminum spacer on top of the factory coil spring, pushing the vehicle up without changing the spring. They’re cheaper and easier to install, but don’t improve suspension travel or articulation. Spring lifts (like Eibach Pro-Truck, Fabtech) replace the factory springs with taller, purpose-built springs that can improve ride quality, wheel travel, and load capacity. Spring lifts cost more but deliver a better overall result for off-road use.
I have a Ram 3500 with the Cummins diesel. What are my options?
For 2011–2013 Ram 3500 Cummins with automatic transmission, Fabtech’s 4.5" and 6" Performance systems are designed specifically for your truck. For 2013–2018 Ram 3500 Cummins, Fabtech’s Basic 5", Radius Arm 5", and 7" kits all fit. The Basic 5" is diesel-only; the Radius Arm kits fit both gas and diesel. Eibach and Superlift fit all 2011–2018 Ram 3500 configurations. Always confirm your engine, transmission, and model year before ordering.
How much lift do I need to clear 35-inch tires?
A 2.5" lift will physically fit 35" tires on most Ram 3500s, but you’ll likely need fender trimming and may experience rubbing at full lock. A 4.5–5" lift is the recommended minimum for 35" tires without significant modifications. For 37" tires, plan on 5–6" of lift with proper wheel backspacing. The Ram 3500’s solid front axle and fender geometry differ from the 1500 — wheel backspacing plays a critical role.
Ready to Lift Your Ram 3500?
Browse all of our lift kits for the 2011–2018 Ram 3500, or contact us if you need help choosing the right kit for your specific model year, engine, and build goals.
