Your complete day-by-day schedule from pre-install inspection to 500-mile break-in check.
For: Truck owners installing or just installed a leveling kitRunning a spacer-only kit instead of full coilovers? Skip the strut disassembly days (Tue–Thu of Week 2) — spacers install on top of the strut in about 45 minutes per side. Coilover kits add 1–2 hours per side and require a spring compressor. Budget alignment costs $80–$120 at most shops.
Rest days are built in for a reason — suspension components settle under load for 24–48 hours after install. If you skip rest days and re-torque too early, you'll get false readings. If a rest day falls on a day you're free to work, use it to double-check your parts list or clean up tools.
Don't skip the re-torque sessions — those are non-negotiable. If you miss a test drive day, double the mileage on the next one. Alignment should happen within 100 miles of install; driving further on bad camber eats tires at $200+ each. If you're more than 3 days behind, restart from the last torque check.
Budget kits (spacer): $80–$200. Mid-range (strut extension): $200–$500. Premium (full coilover): $800–$1,800. Alignment: $80–$120. Professional install if DIY isn't your thing: $300–$600 labor. Re-alignment at 500 miles is optional but recommended ($40–$80).