The 1973–1987 K10 4x4 Square Body is a popular off-road build platform. A 4" suspension lift opens up room for 35" tires and gives you serious capability. Here’s how to do it right without rubbing.
K10 Factory Suspension Overview:
The 73–87 K10 uses:
- Front: Solid front axle (Dana 44 or Dana 60) with leaf springs
- Rear: Solid rear axle with leaf springs
This is a solid axle setup front and rear – the simplest suspension to lift.
The Best 4" Lift for the K10:
A 4" leaf spring lift kit adds longer, arched springs to push the axles down (or the body up). Superlift 4" Rear Block Kit for K5/K10/K15 (1973–1987) – Rear block and U-bolt kit for additional rear lift height.
For a full 4" suspension lift (front and rear new springs), Rough Country and Skyjacker both make leaf spring packs specifically for the 73–87 K platform.
Tire Fitment with 4" Lift:
- 33" tires: Fit without modification on most K10 builds
- 35" tires: Usually need minor trimming of the inner fender
- 37" tires: Require fender trimming and possibly body lift addition
Front Axle Clearance:
The solid front Dana 44 or Dana 60 has good ground clearance stock, and 4" more lift makes these trucks capable wheelers. Running full-float hubs and locking differentials is the go-to setup.
Alignment After Lift:
On solid axle trucks, alignment primarily means caster angle. A caster correction shim in the front spring perches may be needed with 4"+ of lift to maintain proper steering geometry.
Shock Options:
With 4" of lift, you need shocks with more travel. Extended-travel shocks or adjustable shocks (Rancho 9000XL, Bilstein 5100) are popular choices.
Additional Mods to Consider:
- Steering stabilizer (reduces shimmy common on lifted solid axle trucks)
- Track bar for rear axle centering
- Extended bump stops
What lift kit are you running on your K10? What tires and any rubbing issues?