3rd gen springs in a 96?
 

can you put 3rd gen springs in the front of a 96 dodge 3500 4x4?

I don't know if you can, Im sure you could, but I wouldn't suggest it. The reason being is because the 3rd Gen Cummins Engine weights approximately 200lbs heavier than the 2nd Gen 12v Cummins Engine. So I would *guess* Dodge put heavier load springs in the 3rd Gen, making the ride for the 2nd Gen rediculously stiffer. A pair of stock 2nd Gen diesel springs are plenty stiff enough, if you have a choice to go aftermarket, buy a set of progressive front springs, such as Carli Suspension's products.

just trying to help with leveling it out a tad

I would really suggest putting in something made for the truck, because I don't think you would enjoy the ride very much with the stiffer springs... If you don't want to buy progressive springs to level it out, get the spacers. There about $120 new, I've seen them for lowest at $40 used on craigslist and classifieds. That':tu:s not much at all.

Also looked at leveling springs?

Most good leveling springs are progressive, I would go that route rather that just ordinary lift springs. Here is the best/lowest price set of progressive springs w/ shocks. KORE HP Leveling Kit 1998-2008 Diesel

look into these, 2.5" 94-02 Dodge Ram 4x4 2500/3500 Gas Lift Coil Springs @Top Gun Customz.
and get longer shock or theyll yank and youll get pissed. just use caution, leveling on stock links any more than 2 inches and death wobble gets veerrryy easy to get if your front end isnt good. just make sure to go to a GOOD alignment shop, one with a calibrated alignment lift... :ouch: