Are you looking to take your Honda ATVs off-road capabilities to the next level? A suspension lift kit can help you achieve higher ground clearance, smoother rides over rough terrain, and better overall performance. Installing a lift kit on your Honda ATV may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and instructions, it can be done by anyone with basic mechanical skills.
In this article, we guide you through the process of installing a Honda ATV suspension lift kit. We cover everything from choosing the right kit for your vehicle to testing out your new suspension system. By following these simple steps, you'll be able to install a lift kit on your Honda ATV in no time.
Benefits of a Suspension Lift Kit for Your Honda ATV
If you want to take your Honda ATV to the next level, a suspension lift kit is the perfect solution. A suspension lift kit is an aftermarket modification that raises the ride height of your vehicle, giving it more ground clearance and allowing for larger tires. This upgrade can make your Honda ATV look more aggressive and intimidating while also improving its off-road capabilities. Below are benefits of a suspension lift kit for your Honda ATV.
Better Ground Clearance
One of the main advantages of installing a suspension lift kit on your Honda ATV is increased ground clearance. With a few extra inches of lift between the ground and your vehicle's undercarriage, you'll be able to tackle rougher terrain without worrying about scraping or damaging vital components like shock mounts, A-arms, steering mechanisms, ball joints, or brake lines. This added protection can give you peace of mind in even the most challenging environments.
Bigger Tires
A higher vehicle body allows for bigger tires. ATV riders generally want bigger tires for added durability. Moreover, bigger tires can handle more intense terrain, making courses more thrilling and easier to navigate. They can also handle a wider range of weather conditions, so you don't have to restrict riding to the warm months, but can also tackle snowy terrain.
Improved Aesthetics
Bigger wheels and elevations enhance the appearance of an ATV. ATV enthusiasts value impressive vehicles, which you can easily achieve with an ATV lift kit. Customizing your ATV with modifications, including a lift, allows you to ride in style and feel confident in your vehicle.
How To Choose the Right Lift Kit for Your Honda ATV Model
When choosing the right body lift kit for your Honda ATV, there are several factors to consider. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Research Your ATV Model: Start by gathering information about your specific Honda ATV model. Understand its suspension system, dimensions, and any limitations or restrictions that may apply. This will help you determine the maximum lift height and the type of lift kit suitable for your ATV.
- Identify Your Purpose: Determine the primary purpose of lifting your ATV. Are you looking to improve ground clearance for off-road adventures, accommodate larger tires, or enhance the overall aesthetics? Identifying your purpose will guide you in selecting the right lift kit.
- Consider The Lift Height: Decide on the desired lift height for your ATV. Lift kits are available in various sizes, typically ranging from 1 inch to 6 inches or more. Keep in mind that larger lift heights may require additional modifications, such as extended brake lines or modifications to the steering components.
- Consider The Manufacturer and Quality: There are a variety of suspension lift kit manufacturers that specialize in ATVs so it's important to research them thoroughly. Read reviews, seek recommendations from other ATV enthusiasts, and check for product warranties. High-quality lift kits ensure proper fitment, durability, and improved performance.
- Compatibility and Installation: Ensure that your lift kits compatible with your specific Honda ATV model. Some kits are designed for specific models, so check the manufacturer's compatibility chart or consult with experts if needed. Additionally, consider the complexity of installation. Some lift kits may require professional installation, while others can be installed by experienced ATV owners.
- Budget Considerations: Set a budget for your lift kit purchase. Prices can vary depending on the brand, lift height, and quality of the kit. Consider the overall value provided by the kit in terms of its features, durability, and performance enhancement.
- Consult With Experts: If you're unsure about which lift kit to choose, consider consulting with mechanics, or experts at reputable ATV dealerships. They can provide valuable insights based on their experience and knowledge.
By following these steps, you should be able to choose the right lift kit for your Honda ATV model. Remember to prioritize safety, compatibility, and quality when making your decision.
Preparing Your ATV for Lift Kit Installation
Before starting the installation of your new suspension lift kit, make sure that you have enough space to work on your quad and park it in a flat area. Ensure that you have all the necessary tools and equipment, including a jack stand, wrenches, pliers, and sockets.
The next step is to inspect your vehicle thoroughly. Check the tires' condition and ensure that they're compatible with the lift kit's height. Look for any damage or wear on the joints, bearings, or other parts of the suspension system that may affect its performance after lifting. Additionally, check if there are any loose or damaged brake lines that can cause safety hazards.
Once you have inspected your ATV thoroughly, remove any accessories or parts from under the vehicle which may interfere with installing the lift kit. Clear away dirt and debris from around the suspension components before beginning work so as not to contaminate anything during installation. Keep all nuts and bolts together in labeled containers to avoid losing them during disassembly.
Read through all instructions carefully before proceeding with the installation process. Follow each step precisely to ensure proper fitment and adjustability of your new suspension setup. Take breaks when needed to avoid fatigue since this process may take some time depending on experience level and overall skill set in working on vehicles.
Removing the Factory Suspension Components
First, you'll need to take off the factory shocks, springs, and other components from your quad's suspension system. You should start by jacking up your Honda ATV and removing the wheels. This will give you better access to the suspension parts that need to be removed.
Next, use a socket wrench or an impact gun to remove the factory shock bolts from both the front and rear shocks of your vehicle. Once you have removed all four factory shocks, it's time to remove the shock absorber. This part is usually located in the center of the frame and connects both front and rear suspensions together.
To remove it, you will need to loosen up any clamps or brackets holding it in place with a screwdriver or pliers. After removing all these parts, inspect them carefully for any damage or wear and tear. If there are any issues found with these parts, they should be replaced before installing new ones. Once everything has been inspected thoroughly, you can proceed with installing your new Honda ATV Suspension Lift Kit.
Installing the New Suspension Components
Now that the factory suspension components have been removed and inspected, it's time to move on to installing the upgraded components. You should always start with front-end installation. install the longest lift bracket (called the 'front long bracket') between the shocks.
Then, put the front spacer on the shock mount frame and align the front long bracket with the front small bracket using an exact hex bolt and lock nut. You can find the exact hardware in your lift kit manual. Connect the top shock to the lift bracket using a hex bolt and lock nut, and add washers for the best performance. Finally, reattach your wheels and torque the lugs to factory specs. Congratulations, your front-end lift is complete!
Installing the back-end lift is almost the same as the front-end lift. However, there are a few differences to note. Before installation, unclamp the brake line and give yourself enough line length. Use the jack on the rear lift brackets on the bottom skid plate for a secure lift. After removing the shock bolts, jack up your ATV or UTV two inches higher. Ensure the hex bolts face inward when attaching the shock. Lastly, connect the lift bracket to the stock shock mount.
Adjusting the Suspension Height and Alignment
Once the upgraded components are securely in place, it's time to fine-tune your Honda's suspension by adjusting the height and alignment. This step is crucial as it determines how your ATV will perform on different terrains. Adjusting the suspension height will increase or decrease ground clearance, which affects the size of tires you can install and how easy it is to go over obstacles.
Once you've installed the lift kit, aligning your wheels properly is also important for safety and optimal performance. You can do this by measuring from one point on each wheel to another across the axle. Adjust each wheel until they are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground.
Incorrect alignment can cause uneven tire wear, poor steering control, and even accidents. Installing a suspension lift kit on your Honda ATV is only half of the job done. Adjusting its height and alignment ensures that you get the maximum performance out of it while maintaining safety standards.
Maintenance Tips for a Honda ATV Suspension Lift Kit
To keep your lifted Honda ATVs suspension system performing at its best, you'll want to take good care of it by following these maintenance tips:
- Regular inspections of the suspension lift kit are necessary to ensure safe and proper functioning.
- Parts such as shocks, springs, and bushings may need to be replaced periodically depending on usage.
- Avoid aggressive riding through rough terrain and make sure your wheels are properly aligned to prolong the life of your suspension lift kit.
- Keep the suspension components clean and free of debris.
- Lubricate all moving parts and bushings regularly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues During Installation
Sometimes things don't go as planned during installation, which is why troubleshooting common issues is important. One of the first things to consider when installing a Honda ATV suspension lift kit is which type of lift kit model you're using. There are several variations of lift kits available, including lift plates and spacer kits. Depending on which model you have, the installation process may differ slightly. Make sure you carefully read through the instructions provided with your specific kit before beginning installation.
Another issue that commonly arises during installation is shock mounting. If not done correctly, this can result in damage to your shocks or cause them to wear out faster than usual. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and ensure that all bolts are tightened securely.
Brake lines are also something that should be taken into consideration during installation. When lifting your ATV with a suspension lift kit, there is potential for brake line damage due to increased tension or stretching caused by the added height. To avoid this issue, it's recommended that you purchase extended brake lines designed specifically for lifted ATVs.
Shop For ATV Lift Kits
ATV lift kits are a great way to customize your vehicle to ensure maximum performance. At Perfex Industries, we understand the importance of customizing your ATV so that you can enjoy your rides as much as possible, which is why we manufacture only the best quality accessories for your ATV. From lift kits to wheel spacers and even skid plates, we have everything you need to transform your ATV into your dream vehicle.
