An extra inch of clearance will make a difference but I cannot tell you how much. You may never bang the axle or only hit on the worst of bumps when it may not be too noticeable. How are your local roads? If they are mostly smooth with smooth transitions you may never bump. Our roads are rural with lots of frost heaves in the spring and lots of patches on broken pavement. On the main roads it was never a problem as far as I can remember.

Another benefit of the AOL bags is that I installed them in front of the axle because there was more room. In this location they are supposed to be very good at lessening axle wrap although with the stock tires I have never had any wheel hop.

 

Yeah, you'll be pleased with that kit. I've had it on my 02 Tahoe for about 6 weeks. I rides good . I did cut out the rear bumpstop mounts to get more travel in the rear. I use to bottom out all the time...but not anymore.