Finding the right 2014 dodge ram 1500 2wd lift kit is usually the first thing owners do once they realize their truck sits a little too low to the ground for comfort. Let's be honest, the 2WD versions of the Ram 1500 from that era have a bit of a "nose-dive" look from the factory. While the truck itself is a powerhouse and looks great, that rake—where the front is significantly lower than the back—can be a bit of an eyesore if you're going for a more aggressive, rugged stance.
If you're reading this, you probably aren't planning on taking your 2WD through a deep mud bog or climbing over boulders in Moab. You likely want that taller profile, the ability to fit some beefier tires, and that commanding view of the road that only a lifted truck can provide. The good news is that lifting a 2WD Ram is actually a bit simpler and often cheaper than doing it to a 4WD model, mostly because you don't have to worry about front CV axles or differential drop brackets.
Why bother lifting a 2WD truck?
You might hear some purists say, "Why would you lift a two-wheel drive?" and my answer is always: because it's your truck and it looks awesome. Not everyone needs four-wheel drive to enjoy a truck that looks like it actually belongs on a trail. A 2014 dodge ram 1500 2wd lift kit can completely change the personality of the vehicle. It takes it from looking like a standard work truck or a "pavement princess" to something that actually has some presence.
Beyond just the looks, a little extra ground clearance goes a long way. Whether you're driving over a high curb, navigating a gravel road to a campsite, or just dealing with deep snow in the winter (where ground clearance matters just as much as traction), having those extra few inches makes a world of difference. Plus, once you lift it, you can finally ditch those skinny factory tires for something with a bit more meat on the bones.
Understanding your options: Spacers vs. Spindles
When you start shopping around, you'll notice two main ways to get that front end up. Since the 2014 Ram 1500 2WD uses a coil spring front suspension, you have some choices to make based on your budget and how you want the truck to ride.
Coil Spacers (The Budget Route) These are basically thick rings that sit on top of your factory coil springs. They are the most affordable way to get a "level" look or a small lift. If you're just looking for 2 inches of lift to level out the front with the back, this is a solid choice. However, keep in mind that spacers can sometimes make the ride a bit stiffer because they change the geometry of how the spring sits. They're great for the wallet, but they aren't the "premium" way to do things.
Lift Spindles (The Right Way) If you want a 3-inch, 4-inch, or even a 7-inch lift, you're looking at lift spindles. These replace your factory steering knuckles. The beauty of spindles is that they move the wheel mounting point lower without messing with your factory coil springs or shocks. This means your truck will ride exactly like it did the day it left the dealership, just higher up. If you're serious about your 2014 dodge ram 1500 2wd lift kit, spindles are almost always the way to go for the best ride quality and durability.
Thinking about the rear end
Most people start by lifting the front because that's where the "dip" is, but if you go too high in the front without touching the back, you'll end up with the "squat" look—where the nose is higher than the tail. Unless you're into that specific style, you'll probably want to add some rear spacers or larger blocks to the back to keep things balanced.
A popular setup for the 2014 Ram is a 4-inch front lift paired with a 2-inch rear lift. This gives the whole truck a significant boost while keeping a very slight rake, which is actually helpful if you ever plan on throwing a dirt bike or some heavy gear in the bed. It prevents the truck from looking like it's sagging under the weight.
Will a lift kit ruin my gas mileage?
I'll be straight with you: any time you make a truck less aerodynamic and heavier, your MPG is going to take a hit. It's not necessarily the lift kit itself that does it—it's the wind resistance and the bigger tires you're inevitably going to install.
A 2014 dodge ram 1500 2wd lift kit moves more of the truck's underside into the airflow. Then, when you add 33-inch or 35-inch all-terrain tires, you're adding "unsprung weight." This means your engine has to work a little harder to get those big wheels turning. Expect to lose maybe 1 to 2 miles per gallon. For most truck owners, that's a small price to pay for the look, but it's something to keep in mind if you have a massive daily commute.
Installation: Can you do it in your driveway?
Whether or not you should install this yourself depends on your tool collection and your patience level. If you're just doing a basic spacer kit, you can probably handle it on a Saturday with a good floor jack, some sturdy jack stands, and a basic socket set.
However, if you're going the spindle route, things get a bit more involved. You'll be taking apart the steering knuckles, dealing with brake lines, and potentially swapping out shocks. It's not "engine rebuild" difficult, but it's definitely a step up from an oil change.
The most important thing to remember is that you must get an alignment immediately after installing any kind of lift. Even a small 2-inch spacer will throw your toe and camber out of whack. If you skip the alignment, you'll chew through a brand-new set of expensive tires in just a couple of months. Don't ask me how I know that—just trust me on this one.
Picking the right tires for your new height
Once the lift is on, the factory tires are going to look tiny. It's like a bodybuilder who skipped leg day—it just doesn't look right. For a 2-inch to 3-inch level or lift, 33-inch tires are usually the "sweet spot." They fill out the wheel wells nicely without rubbing when you turn the steering wheel all the way.
If you go for a 4-inch or 6-inch 2014 dodge ram 1500 2wd lift kit, you can start looking at 35-inch tires. Just be aware that with 35s on a 2014 Ram, you might have to do a little bit of "trimming" on the plastic inner fender liners. It's nothing a utility knife can't handle, but it's something to be prepared for if you want that massive, wide-body look.
Final thoughts on the upgrade
At the end of the day, lifting your 2WD Ram is one of the most satisfying mods you can do. It changes the entire vibe of the truck and makes you look back at it every time you walk away in a parking lot. Whether you go with a simple set of spacers to level it out or a full spindle kit to tower over traffic, you're making the truck your own.
Just remember to do your research, choose a reputable brand that offers a decent warranty, and don't forget that alignment. Your truck (and your wallet) will thank you in the long run. There's nothing quite like the feeling of that first drive after the kit is installed—suddenly, the world looks a little different from a few inches higher up. Enjoy the ride!