A Comprehensive Guide to Increasing Ground Clearance with a Car Lift
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your car’s low ground clearance prevents you from traversing certain obstacles? If you have, you’re not alone. Many car enthusiasts face this issue frequently, but not all of them are willing to take the extra step to lift their cars. In this article, we will explore the process of lifting a car using Eddie’s Miata as an example, and determine whether the compromises and modifications required are truly worth it.
First, let’s delve into why lifting a car can be beneficial. Increased ground clearance allows you to navigate over obstacles such as curbs, speed bumps, and uneven terrains without damaging the undercarriage of your vehicle. It opens up a world of possibilities by giving you the freedom to explore off-road locations and enjoy new adventures. Additionally, a lifted car has an enhanced aesthetic appeal, which can make a bold statement on the road.
To lift Eddie’s Miata, we will be using a combination of methods. Firstly, we will be changing the tire size to gain a few extra inches of clearance. Secondly, a lift kit from Paco will be installed, which raises the lower mounting point of the suspension, effectively raising the wheel. Lastly, we will be replacing the stock suspension with coilovers from BC Racing, which, when adjusted to their maximum ride height, will provide an additional inch or two of ground clearance.
Before proceeding with the modifications, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks. Lifting a car alters its center of gravity, which can impact stability and handling. It may also cause changes in weight distribution and suspension geometry, which could potentially affect the overall performance of the vehicle. Additionally, lifting a car can lead to increased fuel consumption due to the added weight and aerodynamic changes.
Now, let’s delve into the step-by-step process of lifting Eddie’s Miata:
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Begin by marking all the alignment locations on the eccentric bolts that control the car’s alignment. This will ensure that you can roughly restore the alignment after the modifications.
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Install the lift kit from Paco, which raises the lower mounting point of the suspension. This simple modification provides a significant boost in ground clearance.
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Next, replace the stock suspension with coilovers from BC Racing. By adjusting the coilovers to their maximum ride height, you can further increase the vehicle’s clearance.
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Finally, change the tire size to gain a few extra inches of ground clearance. Ensure that the new tires do not interfere with the fenders and make any necessary adjustments to avoid rubbing.
It’s important to note that lifting a car may require some cutting and modification of body work, such as trimming the fenders and bumpers to accommodate larger tires. These modifications are irreversible, so it is crucial to consider whether you are comfortable with these alterations before proceeding.
Despite the potential drawbacks and modifications required, lifting a car can significantly enhance its off-road capabilities and overall aesthetics. It opens up a world of possibilities and allows you to explore untapped terrains with confidence.
As we examined in Eddie’s Miata, the compromises and modifications made to lift the car were worth it. The increased ground clearance provided by the combination of tire size, lift kit, and coilovers allowed the Miata to overcome obstacles with ease. However, it’s essential to carefully consider the specific requirements of your car and your intended use before deciding to lift it.
In conclusion, lifting a car can be a worthwhile endeavor for the adventurous car enthusiast who seeks to explore beyond the beaten path. By following the appropriate steps and considering the potential drawbacks, you can lift your car to new heights, both literally and figuratively. So, if you find yourself frequently hindered by your car’s low ground clearance, it may be time to consider whether lifting your car is worth it.