Blocks vs. Struts: What’s the Difference and Which Do You Need?
Learn how lift blocks and struts work, when to use each, and practical tips for a safe, smart suspension upgrade.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your vehicle’s suspension, you might hear the words "blocks" and "struts." Both of them can change the height of your vehicle, but they work in different ways. In this guide, we will explain what each part does, who needs them, and how to pick the right one for your vehicle.
What Are Lift Blocks?
Lift blocks, also called "blocks," are used to raise the back of trucks and SUVs that have leaf springs. The block goes between the axle and the leaf spring, giving the vehicle extra height. This is often done to make room for bigger tires or to make the vehicle look more level after changes to the front.
Pros:
- Cheap way to add height
- Easy to install
- Helps with tire clearance and leveling
Things to Consider:
- Big blocks can change how the car drives
- You may need extra parts like U-bolts to make it work right
What Are Struts?
Struts are important parts in the front suspension of many cars, trucks, and SUVs. They are a combination of a shock absorber and a spring. Struts help control the bounce of your vehicle and keep it steady while driving.
Pros:
- Important for a smooth ride
- Help with steering and stopping safely
Things to Consider:
- Worn-out struts can make your car drive badly and cause tires to wear unevenly
- Replacing struts may need a professional to align your vehicle
Blocks vs. Struts: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Lift Blocks | Struts |
|---|---|---|
| Main Use | Raise the rear of vehicles | Control bounce, support weight, help with steering |
| Typical Vehicles | Trucks & SUVs with leaf springs | Cars, SUVs, and some trucks |
| Effect on Ride | Adds height; very tall blocks can change how the car drives | Affects comfort, control, and tire wear |
| Common Add-Ons | U-bolts, pinion shims, add-a-leaf | Mounts, bearings, alignment |
| Goals | Make room for bigger tires, level the vehicle | Improve handling, stability, and safety |
When to Choose Each
Choose lift blocks if you just want to lift the back of your vehicle to make room for larger tires or to make the vehicle level. Lift blocks are best for small or medium lifts and work well when you use the right extra parts.
Choose new struts if your vehicle bounces a lot, leans forward when you brake, has uneven tire wear, or you feel like the steering is off. New struts will help your car ride better and give you more control.
Can Blocks and Struts Be Used Together?
No, blocks and struts do different jobs. Lift blocks go on the back of vehicles with leaf springs, and struts are used for suspension in the front or some other places.
Fitment & Safety
- Always use the right parts for your vehicle’s year, make, model, and type of suspension.
- Make sure you use good quality parts, like U-bolts, and tighten them properly.
- After replacing struts or changing ride height, get a professional to check your vehicle’s alignment.
- Don’t use too tall a block in the back, as it can mess up the car’s angles.
- If you carry heavy loads, think about the strength of your parts, especially when choosing springs and shocks.
FAQs
Do lift blocks make the ride rougher?
Mild blocks, installed correctly with proper hardware, typically have a minimal impact. Very tall blocks can change driveline angles and ride feel, so keep lift goals realistic and use complementary parts.
How often should struts be changed?
Intervals vary by vehicle and driving conditions, but many owners notice performance drop-off around 50k–100k miles. Inspect if you see fluid leaks, excessive bounce, or uneven tire wear.
Do I need an alignment after replacing struts?
Yes. Because struts influence alignment geometry, plan on a professional alignment after installation to protect tires and restore proper handling.
Ready to upgrade your Suspension?
At MountainFireWheels, we make it easy to shop for suspension parts like lift blocks and struts.
Whether you need blocks for lifting or new struts for a smoother ride, we’ve got the right parts for you.
Whether you need lift blocks for rear clearance or new struts for a smoother, safer ride, we’ve got quality parts that fit.