Need help deciding on AAL or leaf pack

Once the holiday sales start up, I plan on purchasing a lift kit for my 2012 DCLB. I have the TRD Sport with the stock 4 leaf pack.

My 1st choice for the front suspension is Icon coilovers & UCAs, set to about 2.5 inches. For the rear, I had initially planned on getting Icon shocks paired with the OME Dakar leaf pack, but I'm having second thoughts on that after measuring my truck tonight.

From center hub to fender, my fronts measure 20.25". My rears measure 21.5" providing a slight rake of 1.25". I don't really notice this amount of rake but would prefer to stay at or below it.

The Dakar leaf pack is supposed to provide 2.75" of lift, but I've heard of it giving more. Any thoughts on this? I could save some $$ and go with wheeler's 2" AAL in the back. Granted, the ride may not be as good. Wheeler's progressive 3 leaf pack is also an option. Maybe I'm making too much of a big deal over an additional 1/2" of rake in the back over what I have currently. Prob wouldn't even notice it.

I have a Leer topper on the bed which may help. Otherwise, my bed remains empty on most days.

 

@geekhouse23

 

Dakars are great with a shell. I got 2.75" with a 225 lb shell (for reference..) and it rides great and handles loads like a champ.

The 3 leaf progressive AAL doesn't hold up to the weight of a shell very good. I had one before the shell for a 5 months or so and it was great until I put the shell on, then it sucked all of my take away because it was way too soft.

Have you thought about All Pro leafs or Ride Rite bags?

 

Thx for the input. I wasn't considering the All Pro leafs because I wanted to stay around 2.75 or below, and I think they're rated at 3" if memory serves me correctly. Maybe they'd settle though?

 

Everything is approximate. Even Dakars.

All Pro has more individual leafs so maybe you'd be able to fine tune the lift height a little easier. Just a thought.

 

Thx. I guess it's much ado about nothing then. Probably be unnoticeable no matter which way I go. I may still go with an AAL to keep my spending below $2k, all depends on how deep the holiday discounts are. If the AAL rides like crap, I'm out less than $100 and can always upgrade later.