Elevating your Honda Acty with a 2-inch lift kit can offer a fresh look and the capability to fit larger wheels and tires, but it's not a decision to take lightly. Priced around $200 on eBay, the lift kit can indeed give your kei truck a more robust stance.
However, be aware that such modifications can raise the vehicle's center of gravity, which may increase the risk of rollovers. Furthermore, a lifted Acty can exert additional stress on the CV joints, potentially leading to accelerated wear and tear.
For those set on installing a lift kit, the process involves some careful steps:
- Begin by removing the front seats to access the strut tower nuts.
- Jack up the Acty's front end at the center brace to lift both wheels simultaneously, then secure with jack stands.
- Proceed to remove one wheel at a time.
- Detach the brake line bracket from the strut to allow for movement during suspension work.
- Unfasten the three strut top hat nuts located beneath the seats (watch for insulation or carpet in an Acty van that might cover these).
- Support the wheel hub with tie-wraps or a bungee cord to prevent straining the brake line while you handle the strut.
- Install the lift spacers and then reassemble the struts, making sure the spacer studs align correctly before tightening the top hat nuts.
- Reattach the brake line bracket to the strut – this step is crucial, so double-check it.
- Repeat the process for the other side, ensuring all components are secure before reattaching the wheels.
For the rear lift:
- Jack up the rear of the Acty, ensuring the tires are just touching the ground to relieve tension on the leaf springs.
- Remove and replace the leaf spring support brackets with the extended versions provided in the kit.
Keep in mind that a front-end alignment will be necessary post-installation to correct the toe-in and prevent uneven tire wear, as the rear wheels are not adjustable.
While a 3-inch lift kit is on the market, it requires more extensive modifications and isn't recommended for the casual user. If you're considering a lift for your Honda Acty, approach it with caution, understanding the changes in dynamics it brings to your vehicle. For those who prefer their Acty closer to the ground, OIWA offers a wide selection of original-spec parts and accessories to maintain and enhance your vehicle's performance without altering its factory design.