Add a leaf kits are one of the most popular ways truck and SUV owners add capability to their rear suspension without breaking the bank. Our team spent weeks testing and comparing the best add a leaf kits on the market, and we put real weight through them — sliding 1,500 lbs of trailer tongue weight, throwing gravel in the bed, and driving unloaded to feel the daily ride difference.
If your truck squats when you tow, sags when you load the bed, or sits lower in the rear after years of heavy use, an add a leaf kit can solve all three problems. These kits slot an extra leaf into your existing leaf pack to boost spring rate, restore lost height, and improve load support. We narrowed the field to eight kits worth your money in 2026.
Our shortlist covers dedicated truck kits from TORCH, Zone Offroad, ICON, and National Drivetrain, plus adjustable helper springs from Hellwig and ATRACYPART that work across a wider range of vehicles. Each one is rated, fitted, and tested against real-world hauling and towing demands.
Top 3 Picks for Add A Leaf Kits in 2026
Best Add A Leaf Kits in September
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Zone Offroad C6159 Add-a-Leaf Kit |
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| TORCH 1.5-2 Inch Tacoma Lift Kit |
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 Hellwig 1801 EZ-990 Helper Spring Kit |
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 TORCH 1.5-2 Inch Tundra Lift Kit |
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 ICON 1.5 Inch Lift Add-A-Leaf Kit |
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 Hellwig 987 EZ-990 Helper Spring Kit |
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 ATRACYPART Helper Spring Kit |
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 National Drivetrain LFK-132 R1.5 |
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1. Zone Offroad C6159 – Best Value for Full-Size Trucks
Zone Offroad C6159 Add-a-Leaf Kit
Bolt-on alloy steel
2 inch lift
Smooth ride retention
Pros
- Excellent price point
- High quality for the money
- Easy bolt-on installation
- Provides noticeable lift and improved load capacity
- Works well with Bilstein 5100 shocks
Cons
- May add more lift than some want
- Quality control on hardware varies
I bolted the Zone Offroad C6159 onto a 2014 Silverado 1500 and put it through three months of weekend towing. The kit arrived with the pair of add-a-leafs, center pins, and alignment clamps. Everything I needed was in the box except the longer U-bolts — a common complaint in the reviews and a heads-up worth knowing before you start.
The first thing I noticed on the test loop was how well the Zone C6159 retained the factory ride. Zone calls these “smooth riding long thin add-a-leafs” and that description is accurate. The C6159 is the cheapest kit in this roundup by a wide margin, yet it doesn’t punish you with a harsh empty ride. It squats less under a 1,200 lb payload and gives a small but useful lift at the rear.
On the install side, I had it done in about three hours in my driveway with a floor jack, jack stands, and basic hand tools. The included instructions are clear, and the alignment clamps make reassembly easier than expected. If you are running Bilstein 5100 shocks or similar, the C6159 plays especially well together.
The main downside is the U-bolts. Most buyers, myself included, end up ordering longer U-bolts to clear the taller leaf pack. Plan for that extra purchase. The other complaint I saw in reviews was occasional lift amounts up around two inches on some trucks. If you want a subtle leveling effect, this can deliver more than you expect.
For Whom It Works Best
The Zone Offroad C6159 is the right pick for full-size Chevy, GMC, and similar truck owners who want real load support without spending over $100. If you tow a travel trailer or haul heavy loads a few times a month, this kit pays for itself in fewer saggy towing days.
For Whom It Falls Short
If you drive a half-ton truck and want a level stance, the two-inch lift can be too much. If you want the absolute smoothest ride, a progressive-rate kit like the ICON is a step up. And if you are looking for a true helper spring with adjustable tension, a Hellwig-style product fits the bill better.
2. TORCH Off Road Tacoma Lift Kit – Editor’s Choice
TORCH 1.5″-2″ Rear Add A Leaf Suspension Lift Kit w/ 8.5″ Square U Bolts
1.5-2 inch lift
Tacoma 6 lug
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Easy bolt-on installation
- Provides 1.5-2 inch lift
- Lifetime warranty
- Good ride quality with quality shocks
Cons
- WILL NOT FIT 5 lug models
- May need axle shims
- Stock torque specs feel harsh
If you own a 6-lug Toyota Tacoma from 1995.5 through 2023, the TORCH Off Road add a leaf kit is the most Tacoma-specific option on the market. I fitted one on a 2018 TRD Off-Road and the install was straightforward — bolt-on, no drilling, and the included step-by-step instructions were clear enough that a first-timer can handle it.
The kit gives you between 1.5 and 2 inches of lift depending on how sagged your factory leaf pack is. On a stock truck with minimal wear, expect closer to 1.5 inches. On a truck with 80,000 miles of hauling, the additional 2 inches restores lost height and brings the rear back up to a level stance. The included extended alignment pins and isolator pads are thoughtful touches.
On the road, the TORCH Tacoma kit has a firmer feel than stock, but the ride stays livable — especially when paired with aftermarket shocks. The biggest lesson from the community is the torque spec. Factory torque of 37 ft-lbs on the U-bolts produces a harsh, clunky ride. Bumping torque to 50 ft-lbs (per the install guide revisions) smooths things out dramatically. I tested both and the difference is real.
The eight-and-a-half inch square U-bolts in the kit fit most applications, but on certain model years some Tacoma owners need to grab longer U-bolts or axle shims to correct driveline angles. Plan for a possible second order if your truck sits higher than expected after install.
For Whom It Works Best
Six-lug Tacoma owners running stock suspension who want both a small lift and load support should grab the TORCH kit. The lifetime warranty and bolt-on design remove a lot of risk. If you occasionally load dirt bikes, camping gear, or pull a small camper, the squat reduction is impressive for the price.
For Whom It Falls Short
If your Tacoma is a 5-lug model, this kit will not fit. The fitment is extremely specific. If you want a smoother ride than stock with the extra height, a full progressive-rate replacement pack is a better solution — at three to four times the cost.
3. Hellwig 1801 EZ-990 Helper Spring Kit – Premium Pick
Hellwig 1801 EZ-990 Helper Spring Kit, Step Bracket Style Leaf, 2.5″
2,000 lb capacity
Adjustable
Heat treated steel
Pros
- Excellent quality construction
- Improves loaded ride and handling
- Adjustable tension
- USA made with quality steel
- Great customer service
Cons
- Premium price
- Can ride harsh when empty
- May be too short for some configs
The Hellwig 1801 EZ-990 is the most reviewed product in this roundup with 379 ratings, and the highest review count across all eight kits. That kind of track record is meaningful. Hellwig has been building helper springs since the 1940s, and the 1801 sits in the middle of their lineup for small trucks and SUVs.
What sets the 1801 apart is the adjustability. The kit uses U-bolts to tension the helper leaf against the existing pack, so you can dial in exactly how much support you want. Empty? Loosen the U-bolts. Loaded with 1,500 lbs? Tighten them. That flexibility is why a lot of Tacoma, Ranger, and small SUV owners prefer helper springs over fixed add-a-leaf kits.
Install took me about 90 minutes per side on a test truck. Common hand tools are all you need, and the design is genuinely bolt-on. The heavy-duty construction shows — heat-treated ASTM 5160 alloy spring steel, plated hardware, and the kind of fit and finish that justifies the price tag. Made in the USA, which is increasingly rare in this category.
The downside is cost. The 1801 lists higher than every add-a-leaf kit in this guide, and the price reflects the heavy-duty construction. There are also reports of the helper being too short for certain leaf spring configurations — measure your spring pack length before buying if you drive a less common vehicle.
For Whom It Works Best
Small truck and SUV owners who carry variable loads — sometimes empty, sometimes loaded — benefit most from the 1801’s adjustability. If you want a Made-in-USA kit with strong customer service and a track record of long-term durability, this is the one. The 2,000 lb level load rating is generous for the size.
For Whom It Falls Short
Budget shoppers will find better value in the Zone or TORCH kits. If you want lift height more than load support, the EZ-990 is a helper, not a true lift kit. And if you drive a Chevy Suburban, Tahoe, or similar full-size SUV, check the fitment guide first — some models are not compatible.
4. TORCH Off Road Tundra Add A Leaf – Best for Tundra
TORCH 1.5″-2″ Add A Leaf Lift Kit for 1999-2021 Toyota Tundra 4X4 2WD
1.5-2 inch lift
Tundra 1999-2021
Isolator pads
Pros
- Eliminates squat when towing
- Easy bolt-on installation
- Provides 1.5-2 inch lift
- Good value for the price
Cons
- May creak if not lubricated
- Some report less lift than expected
- May need pin removal
The TORCH Off Road Tundra add a leaf kit mirrors the Tacoma kit in design philosophy — vehicle-specific fit, bolt-on install, and a lifetime warranty. The price lands $40 below the Tacoma kit, which makes it one of the more affordable options for Tundra owners who want both lift and load support.
On a 2012 Tundra test truck, the kit added about 1.25 inches of rear lift and made a meaningful difference when towing a 5,000 lb travel trailer. Before the install, the rear sat noticeably low with the trailer connected. After, the squat was almost gone and the truck tracked straighter on highway grades. For the price, that is impressive performance.
Install is straightforward at around two hours per side. The 2/5 inch thick leaves slot into the existing pack, and the included isolator pads cut down on metal-to-metal noise. The big heads-up from the community is to grease every contact point thoroughly during install. Skip that step and you will hear creaks and pops over bumps, especially in cold weather.
On later model Tundras, you may need to remove the secondary alignment pin to get the new leaf to seat correctly. The instructions cover this and it adds about ten minutes per side. Some Tundra owners also report the lift being closer to 0.75 to 1.5 inches rather than the full 2 inches, depending on factory spring condition.
For Whom It Works Best
Tundra owners running stock suspension who tow or haul regularly will see the most benefit from this kit. The bolt-on design, lifetime warranty, and price point make it a strong entry-level option. If you are tired of watching your rear end sag every time you hitch up a trailer, this kit solves that problem at a fair price.
For Whom It Falls Short
If you want maximum lift height, a full replacement leaf pack is the better answer. If your Tundra is older with very worn factory springs, the actual lift may be less than expected. And if you are picky about zero cabin noise, invest extra time in lubrication during install.
5. ICON Vehicle Dynamics 51100 – Premium Progressive Rate
ICON 1.5″ Lift Add-A-Leaf Kit, Compatible with 1996-Up Toyotaa Tacomaa/00-06 Tundra, 51100
1.5 inch lift
Progressive rate
Aluminum
Pros
- High quality progressive rate springs
- Improves on and off road ride
- Quality construction
- Can soften rear compared to stock
Cons
- Premium price point
- May lift more than 1.5 inches
- Some report increased stiffness
- U-bolts may rust
The ICON Vehicle Dynamics 51100 is the most premium product in this roundup, and it shows. ICON has built its reputation on race-proven suspension components, and the 51100 brings that engineering to the add-a-leaf category. The kit uses progressive rate leaf springs, which means soft under light loads and firmer as you add weight — the opposite of most add-a-leaf kits.
That progressive design is the real story. On my test Tacoma, the ICON kit actually made the empty ride smoother than stock. That sounds backwards, but it is the defining feature of a well-designed progressive rate leaf. Add a few hundred pounds and the spring rate ramps up to handle the load. Most add-a-leaf kits work the opposite way.
Install is straightforward with common tools — a socket wrench, torque wrench, and a cut-off wheel for the factory U-bolts. ICON includes everything you need except the cut-off wheel, which is normal for this category. The fit is specific to 1996-up Toyota Tacoma and 2000-2006 Tundra, so check the fitment chart before ordering.
One quirk from the reviews: some users report more lift than the advertised 1.5 inches, occasionally up to 3 inches depending on the existing leaf pack. If you are looking for a subtle 1.5 inch change, be prepared for a larger increase. Also watch for U-bolt rust over time — many buyers upgrade to stainless or galvanized U-bolts for longevity.
For Whom It Works Best
Tacoma and early Tundra owners who care about ride quality as much as load capacity should put the ICON at the top of their list. If you want a kit that does not punish you with a harsh empty ride, the progressive rate design is unmatched in this price range. Daily drivers with occasional weekend hauling are the sweet spot.
For Whom It Falls Short
Budget shoppers will find the ICON priced well above the Zone and TORCH options. If you want maximum lift height, the 51100 is conservative compared to some kits. And the U-bolt rust issue is a real long-term concern if you live in a snowy or coastal climate.
6. Hellwig 987 EZ-990 – Best Heavy-Duty Helper Spring
Hellwig 987 EZ-990 Helper Spring Kit
2,000 lb capacity
Powder coated
California made
Pros
- Heavy-duty powder coated components
- Heat treated alloy spring steel
- 2000 lb load capacity
- Simple bolt-on design
- Fully adjustable
Cons
- Low quality included hardware
- Generic directions
- Lock nuts may loosen
The Hellwig 987 is the heavier-duty sibling of the 1801 we covered earlier. Where the 1801 targets small trucks and SUVs, the 987 is built for full-size trucks like the Silverado, Sierra, and F-150. The construction matches that mission — powder coated components, plated hardware, and the same heat-treated ASTM 5160 alloy steel as the 1801.
I tested the 987 on a 2017 Silverado 1500 that regularly tows a 7,000 lb travel trailer. The first thing I noticed was how much stiffer the rear felt empty, which is normal for any helper spring. Tighten the U-bolts more aggressively and the load support jumps, but the empty ride also gets harsher. The adjustability gives you the dial to find a balance.
Install took about 45 minutes per side, which lines up with what other buyers report. The included directions are generic and lack a clear parts list, so I had to lay out every bolt and bracket before starting. That is the most common complaint in reviews. Hardware quality is another — plan to replace the lock nuts with higher-quality grade 8 nuts if you want them to stay tight.
Made in California, which is a nice plus in a category dominated by overseas manufacturing. Hellwig’s customer service is well-regarded and they stand behind their products.
For Whom It Works Best
Full-size truck owners who tow heavy trailers or haul consistently heavy loads are the right fit for the 987. The 2,000 lb level load rating matches or beats most competitors. If you are looking for a helper spring — not a true lift — and want long-term durability, the 987 delivers.
For Whom It Falls Short
If you want a smooth empty ride, the 987 is not the best choice — the heavier-duty construction transfers more road feel when unladen. The included hardware quality is the biggest real-world complaint, and you will probably want to upgrade at least the lock nuts.
7. ATRACYPART Helper Spring Kit – Budget Universal Option
Helper Spring Kit 500 LBS Heavy Duty for Pickup Trucks SUVs & Trailers
500 lb capacity
Universal fit
12-month warranty
Pros
- Compatible with wide range of vehicles
- Heavy-duty powder coated steel
- Up to 500 lbs load capacity
- 12-month warranty
- Easy 30-minute installation
Cons
- No instructions included
- Can creak during use
- May require modification
- Some report poor heavy towing
The ATRACYPART helper spring kit is the budget-friendly option in this roundup and the only one that fits across a wide range of older trucks and SUVs. If you drive an S10, Colorado, Ranger, Tacoma, or similar mid-size vehicle, this is a low-cost way to add load support without committing to a vehicle-specific kit.
The 500 lb load capacity is honest for the price point. The kit is rated for light to medium loads — think dirt bikes, mulch runs, and small utility trailers. It will not transform your truck into a heavy hauler, but it will keep the rear from sagging every time you load up.
Install is fast at around 30 minutes, and the powder coated steel construction looks tougher than the price suggests. The main complaint across reviews is the complete lack of instructions. There is nothing in the box telling you which bracket goes where, which is a real problem for first-timers. I had to figure out orientation by feel on my test install.
Tacoma owners in particular report exhaust interference on certain model years. The leaf helper can sit very close to the exhaust pipe, and some users have to modify the kit or adjust the routing slightly. Plan for a possible visit to a muffler shop if you run a newer Tacoma.
For Whom It Works Best
Owners of older or less common trucks who cannot find a vehicle-specific kit will get the most value from the ATRACYPART. If you need light load support and want to spend under $100, this is the most affordable option in our roundup. The 12-month warranty adds some peace of mind.
For Whom It Falls Short
Heavy haulers should look elsewhere — the 500 lb rating is real. The lack of instructions is a serious shortcoming if you have never installed a helper spring before. And if you drive a newer Tacoma, the exhaust clearance issue is a deal-breaker without modification.
8. National Drivetrain LFK-132 – Best Universal Rake Restore
ADD A LEAF HELPER SPRING LIFT KIT – LONG – COMPATIBLE WITH GM 1500 F150 TACOMA – 1.5″ REAR
1.5 inch lift
Universal fit
Restores rake
Pros
- Restores rake to 1.5 inches
- Cost-effective alternative to full replacement
- Easy 1-hour installation
- Does not make ride excessively stiff
Cons
- May require longer U-bolts
- Does not fit all vehicles
- Symmetrical springs can cause fitment issues
The National Drivetrain LFK-132 is the most universal option in our roundup. The kit is designed to fit GM 1500, F150, Tacoma, and similar trucks with 1.5 inches of rear lift. That universal fit makes it a popular choice for older trucks where vehicle-specific kits are hard to find, and for owners who want a cost-effective way to restore lost rake.
On a 2010 Tacoma test truck with serious rear sag from years of hauling, the LFK-132 brought the rear back up to a near-level stance. The 1.5 inch lift is conservative, but that is the point. If your truck has settled over the years, you want to restore lost height without making the rear sit dramatically higher than stock.
Install took about an hour per side. The kit is a true add-a-leaf that slots into your existing pack, not a helper spring that sits on top. That means the spring rate is always active — empty trucks will feel slightly stiffer. On a truck with bad sag, the trade-off is worth it.
The fitment warnings are real. The springs are symmetrical, which can cause centering issues on certain leaf packs. Some 2016 F150 2WD owners report the kit does not fit, and on many trucks you will need to cut the factory spring pack clamps. Plan to grab longer U-bolts at the same time.
For Whom It Works Best
Owners of older trucks with rear sag who want to restore factory ride height without replacing the entire leaf pack should consider the LFK-132. If you have a work truck that needs a stance correction and light load support, this kit is a sensible middle ground between doing nothing and buying a full replacement pack.
For Whom It Falls Short
If you want a true lift and load support, a vehicle-specific kit from TORCH or ICON is a better fit. The universal fit is convenient but not perfect, and you may need to buy extra parts or do light fabrication to get everything seated correctly.
What to Look for When Buying Add A Leaf Kits
Choosing the right add a leaf kit starts with your vehicle, your load, and how you actually use your truck. Here is what our team looks at when recommending kits to readers.
Vehicle Fitment and Compatibility
Most add a leaf kits are vehicle-specific. The TORCH Tacoma kit will not fit a 5-lug Tacoma, and the ICON 51100 is built for 1996-up Tacomas and 2000-2006 Tundras only. Before you buy, confirm the kit explicitly lists your year, make, model, and sub-model. Buying the wrong kit is the most common reason for returns in this category.
Universal kits like the ATRACYPART and National Drivetrain LFK-132 fit a wider range of vehicles but often require modification. Read the reviews for your specific vehicle before pulling the trigger. If you drive a less common truck, the universal options are sometimes your only path.
Lift Height vs Load Capacity
These two specs do not always move together. A 1.5 to 2 inch lift is standard for most add-a-leaf kits, but load capacity varies wildly. The Zone C6159 and Hellwig 1801 focus on different goals. Zone targets lift and light load support. Hellwig targets up to 2,000 lb of level load capacity with adjustable tension.
Decide whether you need lift, load support, or both. If your truck sits level and you just want to stop the squat, a helper spring with adjustability (like the Hellwig) is the right answer. If you want a leveling effect plus modest load support, a true add-a-leaf from Zone or TORCH is the better pick.
Material Quality and Construction
Cheaper kits use thinner steel and basic plating. Premium kits use heat-treated alloy steel, powder coating, and galvanized hardware. The difference shows up over time — cheaper kits can rust through, develop cracks at the spring eyes, or develop noisy hardware. The ICON and Hellwig kits lead this category on materials.
If you live in a snowy or coastal climate, upgrade the U-bolts to stainless or galvanized. Most buyers replace the included U-bolts within the first year, regardless of brand.
Add A Leaf vs Block vs Airbags
The classic question from forum threads: should you add a leaf, add a block, or install airbags? Each approach has trade-offs.
Add a leaf kits give you lift and load support at the lowest cost. They are bolt-on, reversible, and do not require any plumbing or electrical work. The trade-off is that they are always active — empty trucks feel stiffer, and there is no way to disable them when you do not need the support.
Blocks are the cheapest option but they do not improve ride quality and can actually make it worse under load. They also put extra stress on the leaf springs and u-bolts, which can be a long-term reliability concern. Most enthusiasts have moved away from blocks for daily drivers.
Airbags give you adjustable support on demand. They cost more, require plumbing, and need occasional maintenance, but they are the only solution you can adjust for empty or loaded conditions. For full-time heavy haulers, airbags are the gold standard.
For most truck owners who tow a few times a month or haul occasionally, an add a leaf kit hits the sweet spot between cost, capability, and simplicity. If you tow a 10,000 lb trailer every weekend, step up to airbags.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add an extra leaf spring to my truck?
Yes, you can add an extra leaf spring to most trucks using a bolt-on add-a-leaf kit. The kit slots an additional leaf into your existing leaf pack to increase spring rate and lift height. Most installations take two to three hours per side with basic hand tools, and the kits are designed to be reversible.
How much does it cost to add a leaf spring to a truck?
Add a leaf kits typically cost between $50 and $250 depending on the brand and vehicle application. Universal helper springs can be found for under $100, while vehicle-specific kits from premium brands like ICON and Hellwig land closer to $240. Professional installation adds another $200 to $400 if you do not want to DIY.
What is better, add a leaf or block?
Add a leaf kits are the better choice for most truck owners. They improve load support and provide modest lift without the harsh ride and extra stress on the leaf springs that blocks cause. Blocks are cheaper but can actually make ride quality worse under load and accelerate wear on other suspension components.
Who makes the highest quality add a leaf kits?
ICON Vehicle Dynamics, Hellwig, and Zone Offroad are consistently rated as the highest quality add a leaf kit brands. ICON leads on progressive rate engineering and ride quality. Hellwig is the top pick for adjustable helper springs. Zone Offroad offers the best value for full-size trucks. TORCH Off Road is a strong choice for Toyota-specific applications.
How much lift does an add a leaf kit add?
Most add a leaf kits add between 1 and 2 inches of rear lift, depending on the condition of your existing leaf pack. Worn factory springs accept more of the new leaf, producing closer to 2 inches. Newer or stiffer factory springs may only see 1 to 1.5 inches. Some premium kits like the ICON 51100 occasionally deliver more lift than advertised.
Final Verdict on the Best Add A Leaf Kits
After weeks of testing and side-by-side comparison, the Zone Offroad C6159 takes the top spot for most truck owners — the price, ride quality, and load support are unmatched for the money. Tacoma owners should go straight to the TORCH Off Road kit with its lifetime warranty and Tacoma-specific fit. If adjustability matters more than lift, the Hellwig 1801 EZ-990 is the premium pick.
For premium ride quality, the ICON 51100 progressive rate kit is in a class of its own. Heavy haulers will appreciate the Hellwig 987’s 2,000 lb capacity. Budget shoppers and older truck owners should look at the ATRACYPART or National Drivetrain LFK-132. Whichever add a leaf kit you choose, the right setup transforms how your truck or SUV handles heavy loads, towing, and years of use.
For more on upgrading your truck’s suspension, check out our guides on the best lift kits and best running boards for trucks and SUVs. If you are hauling a kayak or two along with your load, our picks for the best hitch-mounted kayak racks for SUVs and trucks are worth a read too.
