Hey guys! So, you're thinking about beefing up your 2023 Toyota Tundra? Awesome choice! One of the most popular mods out there is leveling your truck and slapping on some 35-inch tires. It’s a fantastic way to give your Tundra a more aggressive look, improve its off-road capabilities, and just make it a total head-turner. But, before you jump in, there's a bunch of stuff you should know. This guide will walk you through everything, from why you might want to level your Tundra and the pros and cons of 35-inch tires to choosing the right leveling kit and tires for your specific needs. Let's dive in!

Why Level and Run 35s on Your 2023 Tundra?

Alright, let's talk about why so many Tundra owners go down this road. The main reason is aesthetics. Guys, let's be honest, a leveled Tundra with big tires just looks mean. It gives the truck a much more imposing stance, making it look ready to tackle anything. Beyond the looks, there are some serious functional benefits too. If you're into off-roading, a leveling kit and larger tires will significantly improve your truck's ground clearance. This means you can clear obstacles more easily and have a better approach, departure, and breakover angle. You'll be able to navigate trails, rocky terrain, and whatever else you throw at it with much more confidence. Additionally, the larger tires offer a bigger contact patch, which means more grip and better traction, particularly in loose or uneven surfaces. And, let's not forget the versatility. Even if you're not hardcore off-roader, the added ground clearance can be super helpful in everyday situations, like navigating deep snow or rough roads. So, whether you want to turn heads on the street or conquer the trails, leveling your 2023 Tundra and fitting 35-inch tires is a surefire way to make it happen. Choosing the right tires is not just about size; it's about considering the type of driving you do and the conditions you encounter most often. There are different types of tires like all-terrain, mud-terrain, and hybrid tires, each designed for a specific set of conditions. Consider where you typically drive, whether it's mostly on-road or off-road, and choose a tire that will perform well in those conditions.

Another significant benefit is the improved off-road performance. Adding a leveling kit and 35-inch tires significantly enhances your truck's capability to traverse rough terrains. The increased ground clearance allows you to overcome obstacles more easily, such as rocks, logs, or uneven surfaces, which might otherwise be impassable with the factory setup. This can be the difference between enjoying a challenging trail and getting stuck. Furthermore, the larger tires provide a larger contact patch, increasing the grip and traction, especially in loose or slippery conditions like mud, sand, or snow. The combination of increased ground clearance and improved traction makes a leveled Tundra with 35s a formidable off-road machine, capable of tackling various terrains with confidence. This modification is particularly advantageous for those who regularly engage in off-roading activities.

Leveling Kit Options for Your 2023 Tundra

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of leveling your Tundra. Now, let's talk about leveling kits. There are a few different types, each with its own pros and cons. The most common types are: spacer kits, coil-over kits, and complete lift kits.

• Spacer Kits: These are the most budget-friendly option. They work by adding spacers to the front struts or coils, raising the front end of your truck. They're relatively easy to install, making them a great option for DIYers. However, they typically provide a less refined ride quality compared to other options. They may also limit suspension travel, which could affect off-road performance.
• Coil-Over Kits: Coil-over kits replace your factory struts with new, adjustable coil-over shocks. This provides a smoother ride, and allows for more precise control over your truck's ride height and performance. They are more expensive than spacer kits, but offer a significant upgrade in ride quality and handling. Coil-overs often come with adjustable damping, allowing you to fine-tune the suspension to your liking.
• Complete Lift Kits: If you're looking for the most comprehensive solution, a complete lift kit might be the way to go. These kits include new coil springs, shocks, and often other components like control arms and sway bar links. They provide a more significant lift than leveling kits, and they are designed to maintain optimal suspension geometry, which helps to preserve ride quality and handling. Complete lift kits are generally the most expensive option, and their installation can be more involved. The choice of leveling kit depends on your budget, your desired lift height, and your off-road aspirations. If you are going for a more aggressive look, a leveling kit is usually the better choice.

Consider the installation process when choosing a leveling kit. Some kits are designed for easy, bolt-on installation, making them suitable for DIY enthusiasts, while others require professional installation. The ease of installation will impact the overall cost of the upgrade. If you do the installation yourself, you can save money, but you need to be confident in your mechanical skills and have the necessary tools. Professional installation ensures the kit is installed correctly, but it adds to the overall cost. Determine whether you have the time, skills, and tools to install the kit yourself or if you prefer to have a professional handle it. Consider the reputation and warranty offered by the manufacturer. Choose a reputable brand with a good track record for producing quality products. Check the warranty details to ensure you are covered in case of any defects or issues with the kit. A reliable warranty gives you peace of mind knowing that the manufacturer stands behind its product.

Choosing the Right 35-Inch Tires

Alright, choosing the right 35-inch tires for your Tundra is a big deal. You'll want to consider a few key factors: tire type, load rating, and wheel offset. The type of tire you choose will depend on how you plan to use your truck.

• All-Terrain Tires (AT): These are a great all-around choice. They offer a good balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. They're a good choice if you do a mix of driving.
• Mud-Terrain Tires (MT): MT tires are designed for serious off-roading. They have aggressive tread patterns that provide excellent grip in mud, sand, and other challenging terrains. However, they can be noisy on the road and may impact fuel economy.
• Hybrid Tires: These are a newer category that attempts to blend the best of both worlds. They offer a more aggressive look and better off-road performance than AT tires, while still providing a relatively quiet and comfortable on-road experience.

Load rating is another important factor to consider. Make sure the tires you choose have a load rating that is sufficient for your truck. This is especially important if you plan on carrying heavy loads or towing. The wheel offset is the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and the centerline of the wheel. The wheel offset will impact how far the tire sticks out from the truck. You may need to choose a different offset to avoid the tires rubbing against the wheel wells, especially if you have a leveling kit. You should also consider the tire's width and the wheel's width. Too wide of a tire on a narrow wheel can cause premature wear and poor handling, while too narrow of a tire on a wide wheel can cause the tire to stretch, which might affect the tire's performance.

When you're choosing tires, think about the tread pattern. The tread pattern affects things like grip, noise, and how well the tires handle in different conditions. Aggressive tread patterns, like those found on mud-terrain tires, offer excellent grip off-road, but can be noisier on the road. All-terrain tires have a more balanced tread pattern that provides a good blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. The tire’s sidewall design is not just for looks; it also contributes to the tire’s performance. A more robust sidewall can provide greater protection against punctures and improve the tire’s off-road performance. Consider the sidewall’s design and construction based on your expected driving conditions. The tire’s overall appearance can significantly change your truck’s aesthetics, so take time to evaluate different tire styles and choose the one that suits your preferences. Consider the look of the sidewall, tread pattern, and overall profile of the tire.

Installation: Leveling Kit and Tires

Installing a leveling kit and tires is a process that requires some mechanical skills and the right tools. If you're not comfortable working on your truck, it's always best to have a professional do the job. However, if you are planning to DIY, here's a general overview of the steps involved:

1. Leveling Kit Installation:
   • Preparation: Gather your tools, including jack, jack stands, lug wrench, socket set, torque wrench, and the leveling kit. Make sure you have a safe workspace.
   • Lifting the Truck: Safely lift the front of your Tundra and secure it with jack stands. Remove the front wheels.
   • Removing the Factory Struts/Coils: Depending on the type of leveling kit, you'll need to remove the factory struts or coil springs. This usually involves disconnecting the sway bar links, brake lines, and any other components attached to the suspension.
   • Installing the Leveling Kit: Follow the instructions that came with your leveling kit. This will usually involve installing the spacer, coil-overs, or other components.
   • Reassembling the Suspension: Reassemble the suspension components, torqueing all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
   • Reinstalling the Wheels: Put the wheels back on and lower the truck.
2. Tire Installation:
   • Mounting the Tires: Have your new 35-inch tires mounted on your wheels by a tire shop or use a bead breaker and tire machine if you have one.
   • Balancing the Tires: Make sure the tires are properly balanced to avoid vibrations while driving.
   • Installing the Tires: Install the wheels with the new tires onto your truck.
   • Torque the Lug Nuts: Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's recommended specifications.

It's always a good idea to have a professional alignment done after installing a leveling kit and new tires. This will ensure your truck handles properly and helps to prevent uneven tire wear. Get familiar with your truck's maintenance requirements. The addition of a leveling kit and larger tires can alter your truck's maintenance needs. Regular inspections of the suspension components, tires, and other parts are necessary to make sure everything is in good condition. Be sure to check the tire pressure regularly to ensure even wear and optimal performance.

Potential Issues and Considerations

Alright, let's talk about some potential drawbacks. Installing a leveling kit and 35-inch tires can impact a few things. First of all, your fuel economy will probably decrease. Bigger tires weigh more, and they create more rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder. Secondly, you might experience some rubbing, especially if you don't have the right wheel offset. You might need to do some trimming of the wheel wells or consider aftermarket fender flares to avoid this. Finally, the ride quality might change. Some leveling kits can make the ride a bit stiffer, and larger tires can sometimes transmit more road noise. Make sure you think about these things before you make the switch. If you are going to do off-road driving, consider installing a skid plate to protect the undercarriage of the truck from rocks and debris.

Make sure to account for all of the costs associated with the modifications. The price of the leveling kit and tires is just the start. You'll also need to factor in the cost of installation (if you're not doing it yourself), an alignment, and possibly other modifications. Plan your budget carefully, and don't forget to include all the extra costs. Research the laws and regulations related to vehicle modifications in your area. Some jurisdictions have specific rules about lift heights, tire sizes, and other modifications. Make sure your modifications comply with the local regulations to avoid fines or other penalties.

Conclusion: Level Up Your Tundra!

So there you have it, guys! Leveling your 2023 Toyota Tundra and putting on 35-inch tires is a fantastic way to upgrade the look and capability of your truck. Just make sure you do your research, choose the right components for your needs, and take the time to do the job right. Whether you're hitting the trails or just cruising around town, you'll be turning heads and enjoying your awesome Tundra. Good luck, and happy modding! Remember, always prioritize safety when working on your truck, and if you are ever unsure about a step, consult with a professional. Happy trails, everyone!