If you're an avid off-roader seeking to take your Yamaha ATV to new heights, then you've come to the right place. Installing a suspension lift kit is an excellent way to elevate your off-road adventures, granting you improved ground clearance and allowing you to conquer rugged terrains with ease.
Whether you're planning to navigate rocky trails, power through muddy paths, or explore challenging landscapes, a suspension lift kit can make a world of difference. By increasing the distance between your Yamaha ATV's frame and its axles, a lift kit provides room for larger tires, enhances overall stability, and ensures a smoother ride even in the most demanding environments. In this comprehensive guide, we walk you through the step-by-step process of installing a Yamaha ATV suspension lift kit.
How to Choose the Right Lift Kit for Your Yamaha ATV
Choosing the right lift kit for your Yamaha ATV involves considering several factors. Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:
- Determine your purpose: Understand why you need a lift kit for your ATV. Are you looking to increase ground clearance for off-road adventures, accommodate larger tires, or enhance the overall look of your ATV? Identifying your purpose will guide your decision-making process.
- Check your ATV model: Lift kits are designed to fit specific ATV models. Make sure to check the compatibility of the lift kit with your Yamaha ATV model. This information can usually be found in the product description or by contacting the manufacturer.
- Research lift kit types: Lift kits come in various types, such as suspension lifts, bracket lifts, or body lifts. Each type has its own advantages and drawbacks. Research the different types and determine which one suits your needs best.
- Consider lift height: Lift kits come in different height options, typically ranging from 1 inch to several inches. The height you choose will depend on your requirements and the terrain you plan to ride on. If you need extra ground clearance, you'll need extra lift. Keep in mind that higher lifts may require additional modifications or adjustments.
- Quality and brand reputation: Look for lift kits from reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality ATV accessories. Read reviews and gather feedback from other ATV owners to ensure you're choosing a reliable product.
- Installation requirements: Lift kits can vary in terms of complexity when it comes to installation. Some may require professional installation, while others can be easily installed by the ATV owner. Consider your mechanical skills and the tools you have available to determine if you can handle the installation or if you'll need assistance.
- Budget: Set a budget for your lift kit purchase. Prices can vary depending on the brand, type, and features of the kit. Determine how much you're willing to spend and try to find a balance between quality and affordability.
- Warranty and customer support: Check if the lift kit comes with a warranty and if the manufacturer provides reliable customer support. A lifetime warranty can give you peace of mind in case of any defects or issues with the kit, while good customer support ensures you have assistance if you need it.
- Consult with experts: If you're uncertain about which lift kit to choose, reach out to ATV enthusiasts or consult with professionals at ATV dealerships or repair shops. They can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision based on their experience and expertise.
5 Steps To Install a Yamaha ATV Suspension Lift Kit
1. Prepare Your Vehicle for Installation
Before getting started, it's important to verify that your vehicle is ready for the upgrade. Make sure you've read and understood the lift kit installation instructions carefully before proceeding. Next, gather all of the hardware and tools needed for the installation process. The contents of your lift kit package may include lift brackets, bolts, washers, nuts, and other necessary components. Make sure that you have everything you need before starting to avoid interruptions during installation.
2. Remove the Stock Suspension Components
To remove the stock suspension components for your Yamaha ATV, it's important to ensure that all hardware and bolts are easily accessible. Use a socket wrench to loosen them up before proceeding with the removal process. Follow the step-by-step photo instructions provided by your lift kit manufacturer for precision engineering. Be careful when removing electrical connections or brake lines attached to these components and always use caution when handling heavy parts as they could cause injury if they fall. It may be helpful to have an extra set of hands during this process for additional safety.
3. Install the Lift Kit Components
Now that all the stock suspension components have been removed, it's time to get started on putting in your new lifted parts. Luckily, most Yamaha ATV suspension lift kits are designed for an easy-to-install bolt-on application, making it easier even for novice mechanics. Begin by installing the front lift components; these will consist of strut spacers or full replacement struts with longer travel. Next, move on to the rear lift, which can be accomplished using either blocks or full replacement shocks with additional length and travel.
Once you have installed the front and rear lift components, it's important to ensure that they are properly aligned. Check the ride height of your ATV against manufacturer specifications before moving on to shock mount installation. This will help you avoid any issues down the road when it comes time for alignment adjustments.
The next step in installing your Yamaha ATV suspension lift kit is mounting shocks and other necessary components such as wheel spacers. Shock mounts should be tightened securely to prevent any movement during use while wheel spacers should be installed according to manufacturer instructions. Finally, double-check all bolts and connections for tightness before test driving.
For those who need more detailed guidance during the installation process, step-by-step photo instructions are available online or through the lift kit manufacturer's website. Following these guidelines will ensure that your Yamaha ATV suspension lift kit is installed correctly and safely so that you can enjoy a whole new level of off-road performance!
4. Adjust the Suspension Height
Depending on the type of lift kit you've chosen, you may have a variety of options for adjusting the height. Most kits come with instructions and step-by-step photo instructions to help guide you through the process. The first step in adjusting the suspension height is to determine how much lift you want. Lift kits typically come in increments ranging from one inch to several inches, and your choice will depend on what kind of riding you plan to do. If you'll be doing mostly trail riding or light off-roading, a small lift may be sufficient.
However, if you plan on tackling rough terrain or making significant modifications to your ATV, a larger lift may be necessary. Once you've decided on the amount of lift that's right for your needs, it's time to make adjustments to the shock absorbers and other suspension components. This can involve adding spacers or adjusting preload settings on your shocks. It's important not to over-tighten or under-tighten any bolts during this process as this could cause damage or create an unstable ride.
5. Test Your Upgraded ATV
To test your upgraded ride, take it for a spin on various terrains and feel the difference in how smoothly it handles bumps and turns. After installing a Yamaha ATV suspension lift kit, you should notice an immediate improvement in performance. The upgrade should provide more clearance for obstacles and increase the inches of ground clearance. This will allow you to tackle rugged conditions with ease.
When testing your upgraded ATV, pay attention to how well it handles turns and absorbs impacts from bumps or rough terrain. You want to make sure that the lift measures true, providing enough clearance without compromising stability or control. If you notice any issues with handling or stability after installing the suspension lift kit, you may need to adjust certain components or seek professional help.
How Long Does It Take To Install A Yamaha Suspension Lift Kit?
Installing an ATV lift kit can be a complicated task, and the amount of time it takes to complete the job will depend highly on the complexity of the kit you choose for your Yamaha ATV. For more intricate suspension lift kits, installation could take up to 6 hours and involve tedious labor like drilling mounting holes, sealing mounting points, and bolting on components.
On the other hand, less complex models, such as body lifts or spring spacer lifts might only require 2-3 hours of work. The skills and experience of the individual working are also major factors in how long installation will take; a veteran worker with years of modifying ATVs may be able to finish in under an hour.
Maintaining Your New Suspension Lift Kit
Keeping your lifted ride in top shape requires regular maintenance and care to ensure optimal performance on any terrain. One of the most important aspects of maintaining your new Yamaha ATV suspension lift kit is to check for any loose bolts or nuts regularly. This can prevent accidents or damage to the vehicle while riding.
It's also essential to keep shock springs clean and free of debris, as this can affect their functionality. Another critical aspect of maintaining your lifted ATV is checking tire clearance frequently. With the installation of a lift kit, you may need to adjust the tire size accordingly. Make sure that there's enough space between the tires and bodywork, as well as between the tires themselves, so they don't rub against each other during rough rides.
Customize Your ATV
Customizing your ATV is an essential part of the ATV riding experience. At Perfex Industries, we have been in the ATV accessory game since 2012, and we manufacture only the highest-quality ATV accessories. From lift kits to wheel spacers to skid plates, we have everything you could possibly need for a wide variety of ATV brands.
