Lift Kit?

Pages : [1] 2

jauten1
03-25-2005, 08:40 AM
Does anyone know if there are any companies planning on making a lift kit for the Ridgeline?

metalry101
07-07-2005, 05:34 PM
You'll probably never see a lift for a RL.

Independent suspension vehicles are extremely difficult to lift properly. There are only three ways to lift an independent suspension vehicle.

-Longer control arms
-Higher spring rate
-Suspension mount drop

Longer control arms are nifty, but all but impossible for the RL. This is the type of system used on prerunners, like Baja 1000 trucks. The suspension arms pivot at the very center of the truck, instead of out from the center line. If you take two suspension systems with the same range of motion (angle-wise), but with different suspension arm lengths, the system with longer suspension arms will have considerably more wheel travel, and as such, more room to jack up ride heigh without adversly affecting ride quality.

Higher spring rates get you more ground clearance because the vehicle sits higher, but ride quality goes down. One reason is that stiffer springs just don't give as much as you go over a bump. The second reason is that if you keep the same amount of suspension travel, but make the neutral setting higher, the suspension will have far less downtravel available to use in smoothing out bumps in the road. Too little downtravel or downtravel available will kill the ride quality. Higher spring rates make the truck sit higher, but they don't increase off-road performance. A slightly larger tire could be cleared, but the drawbacks would most likely outweigh the positives on a such a lift.

The time proven way to safely and reliably lift a vehicle with independent suspension is to utilize a sub structure that lowers the entire suspension system away from the vehicle. This is the type of setup you see on late model GM's that have been lifted. This is difficult and expensive to do, but it works well because it retains the factory suspension. The difference is that the suspension is now located farther from the rest of the body, and therefor larger tires can be fitted without hacking the bodywork to bits when the suspension is compressed or steering is at full lock. The downside is that it's expensive and difficult. Such a lift usually requires torching off old suspension components and welding new ones on. A well engineered lift of this type is as good or better as the factory suspension, and should last the life of the vehicle.

This would most likely be the type of system that a lift manufacturer would have to come up with in order to get a RL more altitude. The biggest drawback to a lift of this nature is price. The price for GM lift kits of this type start at over a grand, and go up from there. GM trucks only need this design in the front because they run solid axles in the rear. A RL would need this sort of setup front and rear due to the indendent suspension at all four corners.

I see a few other engineering problems with this as well. First of all, every other truck on the market utilizes a frame on body design, whereas the Honda does not. There is nothing necessarily wrong with a unibody design (my vehicle is unibody), but it does make it more difficult to attach such a suspension lowering structure. Also, what about the rest of the truck? Larger, and in turn heavier tires mean every part of the truck has more stress placed upon it, especially in hard usage. A half-ton Chevy or a Nissan Titan is designed to deal with such things, obviously. Their tow ratings of 7,000+ lbs and V8 engines attest to that. So does their weight. Weight hurts a lot of things, but weight in the right places means strength, and I don't know if the RL's steering and braking systems are up to the task of controlling heavier tires. Of course they could do it for a while, but whether or not they would survive the long haul as well as other half-ton trucks' equipment does is my question. The engine and transmission are another concern, especially the transmission. The engine is powerful...albeit not on the low end like a V8, but then again neither is the Hemi, so I don't really question the engine's ability to turn bigger tires, but I do question its cooling system. Same with the transmission. Without regearing the differentials, larger tires effectively gear the truck up, lessening the multiplication of the torque, meaning the engine and transmission have to work harder. A harder working automatic transmission means a hotter automatic transmission, and heat is the enemy. Over a short period of time the truck should be able to handle it just fine. If it can safely tow 5,000 lbs then it should handle taller tires. Again, my doubts concern the longevity of said components when subjected to the additional wear and tear that larger tires cause day in and day out. I would imagine that Honda engineered enough strength into the truck to be able to handle a tire a couple of sizes bigger, but it is possible that the truck might not handle it very well, as it is Honda's first venture into the world of trucks. Therefor I would assume there are at least a few weak points, even from a product as well engineered as the RL.

Obviously these are just my thoughts...and not to be taken as fact. I don't intend to insult the RL or its owners in any way. I think it's a well engineered vehicle that serves the purpose it was designed for exceedingly well. I couldn't agree more with Honda's motto for the RL, it is, above all else, a Honda.

shovelhd
07-07-2005, 06:07 PM
That's one pretty impressive post for #1, metal. welcome.

BannedUser
07-08-2005, 02:02 AM
That's one pretty impressive post for #1, metal. welcome.

Yeah...what a mouth full. :) I say welcome too!! :D

zero
07-08-2005, 02:20 AM
Yes. Very nice post. Thanks for contributing.

laserfan
07-09-2005, 07:32 AM
I can't wait to see your SECOND post, metalry101!!!

Thanks, I've wondered about all this stuff ever since we started talking about ground clearance (and lack thereof)...

zero
07-09-2005, 09:34 AM
I hope someone comes out with an air suspension system for creating lift. The LandRover LR3 has a very interesting system. You 'dial in' the amount of lift that you need for the particular situation. If I am not mistaken, the LandRovers are all independent suspension. What I don't know is how the rest of the vehicle suspension would need to be modified for an air suspension system to work properly.

joe
07-20-2005, 11:08 PM
simply, NO. the suspension design limits it, like metal said PLUS IF it was possiable the demand would be too looooooow(compared to body on frame 4X4s) to warrant manufacture.

metalry101
07-22-2005, 11:40 PM
I hope someone comes out with an air suspension system for creating lift. The LandRover LR3 has a very interesting system. You 'dial in' the amount of lift that you need for the particular situation. If I am not mistaken, the LandRovers all all independent suspension. What I don't know is how the rest of the vehicle suspension would need to be modified for an air suspension system to work properly.

This type of system would probably be the best for making a RL better off-road, but it's cost prohibitive for the aftermarket. Honda could design and develop such a system and intigrate it into the truck with success I think. As for what would need to be modified...nothing really. The idea of the air system you speak of is that you retain your stock ride height and suspension settings for when you're on the road, but when you're in rough terrain going slow and don't need the plush suspension and low ride heigh, you can jack the thing up a bit to gain a bit of clearance. Many, many vehicles have such a system. The Toureg and Cayenne both have it, as do all modern Land Rovers, and I think the Lexus GX470 might even have it. The Grand Cherokee might be equipped with something such as that as well...but I'm not sure (and I don't care, I can't stand the new Grand Cherokee, and I'm a Jeep guy). It could work very well if designed with care and if the computer system that controlled it was modelled after the LR3's (the only computer system in a 4x4 that actually does more good than bad on the trail).

One note to that however. The truck already handles high speed off-road situations exceptionally well. Where it leaves something to be desired is when the going gets rough and slow, and without a low-range transfer case, it's not going to do very well in these situations, no matter the suspension. Also, with limited articulation, the RL is going to lift tires, meaning either locked diffs (selectable like the LR3) or an intelligently programmed computer control system (like on a Grand Cherokee) would help drastically.

If you want a vehicle as big as an RL that'll crawl over rocks then buy one of these: H2 (you may laugh at its gas mileage, but it rides almost as smoothly as a RL, does almost as well in the high speed stuff, and it'll outcrawl damn near anything on the market in stock form with a competenet driver (given that it will fit)), the Range Rover (it's amazing what the thing can do, even with 20" rims), the Toureg (again, it's stupid how well this thing works, especially with the TDI V10), the GX470 (Lexus? off-road? Well, it is built by Toyota...), and the Dodge Power Wagon (solid axles, sway bar disconnects, lockers front and rear, BFG A/T's, Warn winch, etc. Ya...it rocks, except for the Hemi).

I think a RL could be made to do as well as the Tundra, Silverado, etc on the rocks, but I think that's up to Honda. An adjustable suspension setup like what the LR3 utilizes would be very, very effective I'm sure, but the LR3 also utilizes a transfer case with low range, locking diffs front and rear, and enough body armor to keep an entire platoon safe. If Honda created an off-road package with a similiar setup to this, I think the RL could be as impressive in the rocks (again, for a factory rig) as it is on the roads leading to the rocks.

zero
07-23-2005, 03:17 AM
Thanks for the reply. Here's to hoping that Honda makes an "off-road" trim option available in the future.

bliss53
08-30-2005, 08:31 AM
Thule now has a roof rack fit kit for it's 400xt feet. The kit number is 2163. I will now be able to use all my older Thule attachments. Order it at ORS Racks Direct (orsracksdirect.com). I worked there a long time ago. Good folks.

sfleming
09-11-2005, 02:49 PM
Thule now has a roof rack fit kit for it's 400xt feet. The kit number is 2163. I will now be able to use all my older Thule attachments. Order it at ORS Racks Direct (orsracksdirect.com). I worked there a long time ago. Good folks.

Thanks.

Regards,

Scott

DogFan
09-11-2005, 05:27 PM
Does anyone have water spots on the front windshield that will not go away? I have great paint but the front glass only is bad, any suggestions

sfleming
09-11-2005, 07:45 PM
Does anyone have water spots on the front windshield that will not go away? I have great paint but the front glass only is bad, any suggestions

Hard water spots. Limeaway will take them right off. Don't get it on your paint. Wear gloves. Rinse well.

Tex's Ridge
09-11-2005, 07:49 PM
Does anyone have water spots on the front windshield that will not go away? I have great paint but the front glass only is bad, any suggestions
Hey DF, what are doing here? What's water spots on windshield have to do with Thule Fit Kit? To answer your question, clean twice with Invisible Glass by Stoner, then Rain X treatment. :)

jays0n
09-11-2005, 08:03 PM
My ridgeline is en route and should be in by the end of october, I have a full thule setup on my element (it's becoming my wife's element) and want to transfer it. It stinks that I have to replace the feet as well as get a fit kit.

I can't tell from the pictures and i'm not familiar with this foot kit but we won't need the Honda rack side rails will we? Won't these adapt to the same mount points that the Honda rack does? Thats how the element's feet work, a cap comes off the roof and they bolt into threaded mounts in the roof.

If someone could post pictures that would be uber helpfull, we probably wont get them until spring as kayaking season is mostly over here in new england. Thanks in advance.

98typeR
09-29-2005, 05:30 PM
Somebody forgot to tell the guys at www.truxxx.com that lifting a Ridgeline wasn't possible!!

This truck was done by Kelly & Sons, Crazy Painters in Bellflower CA. It
looks even better in person, and they were telling me "Just wait until we
buff it out and pinstripe it - it doesn't look like anything yet!". They
were commissioned by Honda to build the truck. It has 20" KMC Wheels and
305/50-20 Toyo Tires with a 2" Truxxx Lift Kit. The tires only fit with
some
massaging of the wheel wells, although you can't tell by looking at it. The
truck was built for the Honda motocross team to use at the races, and for
some display events.

The Truxxx Lift Kit will be available for the general public within about 60
days


http://truxxx.com/photo/thumbnails.php?album=8

hankim
09-29-2005, 05:49 PM
Are we talking about a body lift, or a suspension lift? I can't imagine it's a body lift, the RL not being a traditional body on frame construction. I wonder how many inches the lift is?

captmiddy
09-29-2005, 07:17 PM
If it is a specialty truck, then there could be a lot of special equipment in the vehicle which can't be put into the stock model. Just like the super lifted truck TheKid used to talk about that Honda has up in Canada.

lowrider90
09-29-2005, 07:29 PM
Just a side note, Anyone who does any off road or snow or sand driving knows you MUST let air from the ties, I on Sand will let down to 15 pounds.

My estimate is a lowering of the entire body about 2"... from 8". something to 6". something?

A 10 pound drop in air, seems to be ok, for almost everything except sand/beach driving. I don't notice much drop in height.

Anyway, I know this truck could go so many more places with 9-10" in clearance. Instead of the 8" clearance. incorporation of an air supension like Landrover could do the trick.

Just my thoughts, J

BannedUser
09-29-2005, 08:24 PM
Just a side note, Anyone who does any off road or snow or sand driving knows you MUST let air from the ties, I on Sand will let down to 15 pounds.

My estimate is a lowering of the entire body about 2"... from 8". something to 6". something?

A 10 pound drop in air, seems to be ok, for almost everything except sand/beach driving. I don't notice much drop in height.

Anyway, I know this truck could go so many more places with 9-10" in clearance. Instead of the 8" clearance. incorporation of an air supension like Landrover could do the trick.

Just my thoughts, J
Hey lowrider...congrats on Sr. status. :D

98typeR
09-29-2005, 10:17 PM
Are we talking about a body lift, or a suspension lift? I can't imagine it's a body lift, the RL not being a traditional body on frame construction. I wonder how many inches the lift is?


Did you get the memo about the frame being welded to the body?
And the answer to your question is 2"!

SEPHIROTH
10-06-2005, 10:46 PM
I talked to a guy from truxxx.com about five days ago and i asked him if they are coming out with a lift kit for sale for the ridgeline.
And infact he said they do have one for it that was going to be avalible in november and he said that it will lift the front and rear 2" he also said it doesnt hurt the ride quality at all.
He said i will have to drive to tucson to have it done and the the kit will be around 600 and something plus labor. I will post pics when i have it done.

minihummer
10-06-2005, 11:40 PM
Can't wait, then add some Hummer size tires :D

WhiteRTLnav
10-06-2005, 11:58 PM
Ya know, my first instict would be to say "why the hell would you want to lift a Ridgeline", but this would be coming from the same person that has lowered all three of my previous vehicles...

I would like to see a lowering kit for the Ridgeline, although, I don't think I will modify the suspension of my Ridgeline, even though my Accord was lowered with the Honda Factory Performance kit. I just think I would be giving up alot of the utility of the vehicle. Not to mention subjecting my running boards to curbs.

PurExcrement
10-07-2005, 12:00 AM
You'll probably never see a lift for a RL.

.
http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2706

well Metal, with all that long answer you gave, you were wrong :eek: how embarassing :o

the above link proves it, oh well, you were king for a day :D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v87/bp_fire/hand_yap2.gif

DoctorJ
10-07-2005, 06:50 AM
I recieved the same email from truxxx and I am now waiting for a response as to what type of lift and how they plan to deal with axle angle change.

DoctorJ
10-07-2005, 12:26 PM
Here is their latest response:

It is a suspension lift, strut spacers that are bolted on top of the assembly. No lose in ride quality.

Similar to the new Ford F-150 kit in design
http://www.truxxx.com/ford_products/ford_level_kits/2004_ford_f150_level_kit_install.htm

Anything taller than a 2" kit and there would be issue's with driveline wear and tear. Hope that helps.

zero
10-07-2005, 12:48 PM
I wonder what Kodiak or Csimo would have to say about this lift kit.

BIGBLOCKDODGE
10-07-2005, 02:01 PM
Can you buy the kit and put it in yourself?
Does it still use stock struts? :confused:

snakepythons
10-07-2005, 03:16 PM
Can you buy the kit and put it in yourself?
Does it still use stock struts? :confused:
Are the custom fog lights blue? and where did u purchase? did you do the work yourself?

Kodiak
10-10-2005, 08:42 PM
First of you have to ask the question: why do you want to lift this truck: For looks or actual off-road needs?

If you need a more severe off-road ready vehicle, there are cheaper vehicles to work from as a base than the Ridgeline. But to continue, here are the fundamental issues:

First off, let’s address the DLR of the tire. The Ridgeline comes standard with a 245/65R17 tire. It has a DLR of approximately 0.36M. The prevailing change here seems to be installing 20 inch wheels on the vehicle (255/55R20)

Dimension................245/65R17.....255/55R20
Load Index...............105..............109
Speed Rating............H (130mph)....V (149mph)
DLR.........................0.36m...........0.39m
Circumference...........89.05in..........97.51in
Rev per Mile..............711.5............649.8
Axle Ratio.................4.533..............- -
Effective Axle Ratio.......--..............4.140

By comparison, installing this tire effectively reduces the final drive ratio from 4.533 to 4.14. Ignoring the obvious clearance issue caused by this change, this will severely affect your launch performance (how quick the truck accelerates), it will adversely affect the torque margin (how steep a grade it can climb before down shifting), and negatively affect you ability to tow up a steep grade. Those are the dynamic performance issues relating to installing a larger tire on the vehicle. It also invalidates your speedometer and odometer which is a violation of federal law (underreporting your accumulated mileage).

Next let’s turn to the axle loads encountered during a significant road input (for those of you that live in the mid-west). Changing from a 17 to 18 inch wheel roughly doubles the durability loads under a severe road input. I have no idea what affect a 20 inch wheel will have on the suspension inputs – however it is exponential. The ball joints and suspension system was designed for severe truck duty (load plus factor of safety) to protect for abuse. Changing to a 20 inch wheel configuration removes any chance for margin. Given time and enough severe road input and braking forces, your tire and vehicle will part company. This is not unique to this vehicle. This condition exists on ANY vehicle on the road including class 8 trucks when this type of significant modification is executed.

Then let’s turn to crash performance: In an off-set crash, a significant amount of lower body intrusion is encountered in a head on collision. Installing a significantly larger or questionable strength wheel will severely affect the lower body deformation in this type of collision. The Ridgeline was designed to achieve a overall good performance level in the IIHS off-set crash. Changing this wheel will negatively affect that performance achievement resulting in the potential for severe injury or death.

Finally let’s look at the cg or ride height. Changing this tire will increase the ride height by 0.76in (19mm). This will affect your roll stability. The Ridgeline achieves a 4 star roll-over rating and does not experience any wheel tip-up in the dynamic maneuver. Changing the tire also compromises this performance.

Suspension lift:
There are two methods available to lift an independent suspension: 1. Install taller springs, lengthen the front and rear half shafts (spline engagement), and develop longer lower arms for the front and rear suspension. 2. Install a spacer between the front and rear sub-frames and lift the body from the suspension, and install taller front and rear struts and springs (this negatively affects the crash performance and is also not advised). Lifting the sub-frame also affects every piece of wiring and piping in the car and would be a tremendous undertaking.

Neither of these two options is easy or cheap. This is interesting for show vehicles – but not practical for street use.

As cautioned repeatedly – proceed at your own risk.

zero
10-10-2005, 09:02 PM
Kodiak, thanks for the input. It took some time to type all of that info out and I appreciate it.

bliss53
10-28-2005, 06:32 AM
Thule fit kit update. The kits are not available yet. They are a month or so away from shipping.

98typeR
10-30-2005, 11:39 AM
Its almost here!!!!!

http://truxxx.com/honda_products/honda_ridgeline_lift_kit.htm

lowrider90
11-01-2005, 07:33 PM
First of you have to ask the question: why do you want to lift this truck: For looks or actual off-road needs?

If you need a more severe off-road ready vehicle, there are cheaper vehicles to work from as a base than the Ridgeline. But to continue, here are the fundamental issues:

First off, let’s address the DLR of the tire. The Ridgeline comes standard with a 245/65R17 tire. It has a DLR of approximately 0.36M. The prevailing change here seems to be installing 20 inch wheels on the vehicle (255/55R20)

Dimension................245/65R17.....255/55R20
Load Index...............105..............109
Speed Rating............H (130mph)....V (149mph)
DLR.........................0.36m...........0.39m
Circumference...........89.05in..........97.51in
Rev per Mile..............711.5............649.8
Axle Ratio.................4.533..............- -
Effective Axle Ratio.......--..............4.140

By comparison, installing this tire effectively reduces the final drive ratio from 4.533 to 4.14. Ignoring the obvious clearance issue caused by this change, this will severely affect your launch performance (how quick the truck accelerates), it will adversely affect the torque margin (how steep a grade it can climb before down shifting), and negatively affect you ability to tow up a steep grade. Those are the dynamic performance issues relating to installing a larger tire on the vehicle. It also invalidates your speedometer and odometer which is a violation of federal law (underreporting your accumulated mileage).

Next let’s turn to the axle loads encountered during a significant road input (for those of you that live in the mid-west). Changing from a 17 to 18 inch wheel roughly doubles the durability loads under a severe road input. I have no idea what affect a 20 inch wheel will have on the suspension inputs – however it is exponential. The ball joints and suspension system was designed for severe truck duty (load plus factor of safety) to protect for abuse. Changing to a 20 inch wheel configuration removes any chance for margin. Given time and enough severe road input and braking forces, your tire and vehicle will part company. This is not unique to this vehicle. This condition exists on ANY vehicle on the road including class 8 trucks when this type of significant modification is executed.

Then let’s turn to crash performance: In an off-set crash, a significant amount of lower body intrusion is encountered in a head on collision. Installing a significantly larger or questionable strength wheel will severely affect the lower body deformation in this type of collision. The Ridgeline was designed to achieve a overall good performance level in the IIHS off-set crash. Changing this wheel will negatively affect that performance achievement resulting in the potential for severe injury or death.

Finally let’s look at the cg or ride height. Changing this tire will increase the ride height by 0.76in (19mm). This will affect your roll stability. The Ridgeline achieves a 4 star roll-over rating and does not experience any wheel tip-up in the dynamic maneuver. Changing the tire also compromises this performance.

Suspension lift:
There are two methods available to lift an independent suspension: 1. Install taller springs, lengthen the front and rear half shafts (spline engagement), and develop longer lower arms for the front and rear suspension. 2. Install a spacer between the front and rear sub-frames and lift the body from the suspension, and install taller front and rear struts and springs (this negatively affects the crash performance and is also not advised). Lifting the sub-frame also affects every piece of wiring and piping in the car and would be a tremendous undertaking.

Neither of these two options is easy or cheap. This is interesting for show vehicles – but not practical for street use.

As cautioned repeatedly – proceed at your own risk.

Thank for the great info, but here is at least one good reason why one would want to lift the ridge.

when you want to drive on the beach,(or any off road driving) hard, soft, medium sand, one must let air out of the tire for best ride over sand. what happens when you let air out from the tire? you lower the vehicle, this reduces clearance from 8".something to 6". something. I would like to see at least 8.something with tire deflated to proper sand PSI, 15-17PSI. This theory applies to all off road driving, since most of road driving is best experienced with the tires aired down to some degree.

Remember, all those other makes who have 10" plus clearance have 8" plus when aired down!

Just my 2 cents

timdebjake
11-02-2005, 12:39 PM
Was looking at the SEMA show pictures, specifically for the LEER Cap, but found this

http://www.semaphotos.com/imageSingle/ImageID=SEM2005110103548

DoctorJ
11-02-2005, 01:08 PM
Good find. Its not listed on the Skyjacker site yet, but here is the picture.

http://i.tnpv.us/2005/SEM200511/SEM2005110103548_pv.jpg

AMLEO
11-02-2005, 03:56 PM
So whats the verdict on this product??

shovelhd
11-02-2005, 03:57 PM
Use at your own risk.

joe
11-03-2005, 08:17 PM
So whats the verdict on this product??

its basically a spacer kit, somewhat easy to install, the ride should be the same as stock. if you install it an alignment is highly recommended, plus keep an eye on the CV boots to ensure that with the lift they arent rubbing each other too much.

personally i am impressed that someone would market a lift kit for the Ridgeline.

5S Dude
11-06-2005, 10:35 AM
Good morning gang, Just wanted to share more photos with you.
There were three Ridgelines that I saw with 2.0” suspension lifts at the SEMA show. The first one we saw was the flamed one seen earlier on the ROC. The second one was a version from Boyd Coddington’s Hot Rods (Gun metal over Silver) and the third was the “Off-Road” racing version. From what we saw, it consists of a 2.0” spacer block mounted between the strut and upper shock mount on the front and rear of the truck. Notice the dual stainless exhaust on the “Boyd’s” version? They were fully functional. Didn’t get to hear them though!
Enjoy! :p

Ron

DoctorJ
11-06-2005, 01:07 PM
That silver one is bland for a BC hot rod modification. I would expect something more than paint wheels and a pipe.

5S Dude
11-06-2005, 01:25 PM
Hi Doc, How are you? Are you still sore from the crash? Is your truck getting fixed? I agree with you 100%. Boyd should have fully customized one for the show. It appears that most of the Ridgelines were "rushed" in order to make the deadline. We were still machining pieces for the Subaru, Titan, Mustang and Viper gurus at the 11th hour and the WRX we did was actually drivin to the show on opening night! :p

DoctorJ
11-06-2005, 04:28 PM
Hi Doc, How are you? Are you still sore from the crash? Is your truck getting fixed? I agree with you 100%. Boyd should have fully customized one for the show. It appears that most of the Ridgelines were "rushed" in order to make the deadline. We were still machining pieces for the Subaru, Titan, Mustang and Viper gurus at the 11th hour and the WRX we did was actually drivin to the show on opening night! :p

I am "not so good" I have degeneration in my left arm in both strength and dexterity.

Yeah those trucks are not like the ones that were pictured at sema.honda.com. Looked a bit like rush jobs except for the red off road one.

AMLEO
11-06-2005, 06:36 PM
Good morning gang, Just wanted to share more photos with you.
There were three Ridgelines that I saw with 2.0” suspension lifts at the SEMA show. The first one we saw was the flamed one seen earlier on the ROC. The second one was a version from Boyd Coddington’s Hot Rods (Gun metal over Silver) and the third was the “Off-Road” racing version. From what we saw, it consists of a 2.0” spacer block mounted between the strut and upper shock mount on the front and rear of the truck. Notice the dual stainless exhaust on the “Boyd’s” version? They were fully functional. Didn’t get to hear them though!
Enjoy! :p

Ron
Have any idea who makes those wheels on the red truck?? What size tires? Thanks,
AM

Outback
11-10-2005, 03:33 PM
So has anyone have this kit on their RL yet?

My brother wants a lift as the oil pan is at the lowest point in the RL so if you raise it at least it won't take such a pounding another 1"or 2" would be great. I told him I would make him plates for it but with the engine Dropping he has declined. So he wants a lift to get it up higher.

WhiteRTLnav
11-10-2005, 04:31 PM
Now I know why I saw a Ridgeline in the backround on an episode of American Hotrods, which, if you don't already know, is a show about Boyd Coddington's customs.

5S Dude
11-10-2005, 06:05 PM
Holly smokes WhiteRTLnav, Boyd's shop is within walking distance from me (If I were a few years younger) just a couple of miles away from us!. I guess I should watch more TV..... :D

DoctorJ
12-01-2005, 05:35 AM
Truxxx kit released http://www.hondanews.com/CatID2000?mid=2005103171972&mime=asc

zero
12-01-2005, 08:00 AM
Man DoctorJ. You are all over the news this AM. Thanks for the find.

zero
12-01-2005, 08:02 AM
I just read the blurb. Interesting how Honda is posting on their website about this Truxx lift kit.

TheRidgester
12-06-2005, 10:23 AM
Just looked at the truxx website... still not released yet, but heres a link to see a lot of pic's

http://truxxx.com/photo/thumbnails.php?album=8

Ruffles
12-06-2005, 10:26 AM
FYI - I got an email from Truxx stating that they are packageing up the first shipment of kits and they are accepting orders.

hijack204
12-06-2005, 10:51 AM
Sweeeeeeeeet any idea of how much pricing will be for these kits.

Ruffles
12-06-2005, 10:56 AM
The email said $699.

TheRidgester
12-07-2005, 08:41 AM
Has anyone talked to their dealer about your warranty if you have it installed :confused:
I'm still on the fence about raising my RL, as I normally lift all my trucks and I do not know how Honda stands, but I can speak for Ford/GM and Toyota from past experiance. Everyone of those trucks (individual dealerships) had told me that my warranty would be void. Went to other dealers who stated that any warranty issue(s) not related to the lift install would still be covered. Then one step further, Find a dealer, find a decent service manager and I was always able to find one that would say " well as long as you do not use it for severe off road use" and they can tell! We would take it as it comes, and fix it.
A true mechanic, and not some young'in right outta preppy school, will know the vehicle, know how it was treated, and even if it was off road... determine if the off road "or the lift" actaully caused the issue. Sorry to type your ear off hear, but it *"x%#! when you have to fight for whats right! Bottom line, I belive you can lift any vehicle, and still have a warranty...my 2 cents :)

bj78249
12-07-2005, 11:55 AM
Hi There There Is A Lift Lit For The Ridgline I Just Put It On Its A 3inch Lift For The Front And 4 On The Rear It Looks Great But The Front Still Is Low It Needs A Inch More To Make It Look Great Im Puting 18inch Rims With Toyo Mud AND ITS DONE THROUGH HONDA DEALERSHIP IT SHOULD BE AT YOUR DEALSHIP IF NOT EMAIL ME OK ILL GIVE YOU THE INFO . I WORK AT GUNN HONDA IN SAN ANTONIO ,TEXAS

mayfielh
12-07-2005, 11:57 AM
Pics would be nice. Also how much has the ride changed since the lift?

Ruffles
12-07-2005, 11:59 AM
Hi There There Is A Lift Lit For The Ridgline I Just Put It On Its A 3inch Lift For The Front And 4 On The Rear It Looks Great But The Front Still Is Low It Needs A Inch More To Make It Look Great Im Puting 18inch Rims With Toyo Mud AND ITS DONE THROUGH HONDA DEALERSHIP IT SHOULD BE AT YOUR DEALSHIP IF NOT EMAIL ME OK ILL GIVE YOU THE INFO . I WORK AT GUNN HONDA IN SAN ANTONIO ,TEXAS


Please post as much info as possible about it. How much does it cost? If it's done thru the dealer, what does it do to the warranty? And, most of all, please post pics!

Thanks!

DoctorJ
12-07-2005, 12:00 PM
The truxxx folks told me two inches is all they felt was safe to keep from causing problems with the axles. I wonder what 4 inches will do?

hijack204
12-07-2005, 12:18 PM
Hi There There Is A Lift Lit For The Ridgline I Just Put It On Its A 3inch Lift For The Front And 4 On The Rear It Looks Great But The Front Still Is Low It Needs A Inch More To Make It Look Great Im Puting 18inch Rims With Toyo Mud AND ITS DONE THROUGH HONDA DEALERSHIP IT SHOULD BE AT YOUR DEALSHIP IF NOT EMAIL ME OK ILL GIVE YOU THE INFO . I WORK AT GUNN HONDA IN SAN ANTONIO ,TEXAS

Would like to hear more about this, also you must have some great patience to press the shift key everytime you start a new sentence

scottIN
12-07-2005, 06:15 PM
They're just spacers, right? Any evidence if you put them on then take them off? My first thought would be if you had a problem with the suspension / drivetrain, take the lift kit off prior to taking it to the dealer. With C Coupe Kompressors, a lot of people overdrive the s/c with a larger crankshaft pulley. But, before they take it in for regular service, it's back to stock! Then swap back after service. My pulley went *boom* so there was no hiding it when it went back to the dealer (on a flatbed).

TheRidgester
12-07-2005, 10:45 PM
SkyJacker - link
http://www.rockymountainsusp.com/honda.htm
Truxxx lift kit - link
http://www.truxxx.com/honda_products/honda_ridgeline_lift_kit.htm

zero
12-08-2005, 08:09 AM
Thanks for posting those links. I would really like to see some pics of the Skyjacker lifted truck and of the Skyjacker kit pieces, if possible.

TheRidgester
12-08-2005, 09:01 AM
Thanks for posting those links. I would really like to see some pics of the Skyjacker lifted truck and of the Skyjacker kit pieces, if possible.
Found this on the net from byod cunningham;) i mean coddington

Boyd Coddington Ridgeline
http://i.tnpv.us/i/c_f.gif
Torrance, Calif. 11/01/2005 -- This 2006 Ridgeline was modified by Boyd Coddington with that company's legendary attention to detail. Custom 17-in. billet wheels are wrapped in Goodyear tires, complimented by a custom billet grille. The two-tone paint features custom pinstriping and smoked taillights, and the entire Ridgeline is lifted two inches thanks to a Skyjacker lift kit. Magnaflow supplied a cat-back exhaust system, and KRU custom embroidered seats and an Audiobahn stereo system are found inside.
Powertrain ModificationsMagnaflow custom exhaust systemChassis/Suspension ModificationsSkyjacker 2-in. lift kit.17x8 custom one-off Boyd Coddington wheels.245/70R-17 Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Silent Armor tiresExterior ModificationsBoyd Coddington custom billet grille.Custom two -tone paint.Custom pinstriping.Custom smoked taillightsInterior ModificationsKRU custom embroidered seats.Audiobahn stereo system

zero
12-08-2005, 09:12 AM
Thanks for the quick pic posting. I like the 2-tone paint job.

DoctorJ
12-08-2005, 10:01 AM
Here is the link zero
http://www.hondanews.com/CatID2000?mid=2005103171407&mime=asc

Mr.Honda
12-13-2005, 07:38 PM
Any more on this subject ...i 'm also wanting to the 2" lift kit ..

DoctorJ
12-13-2005, 07:51 PM
Any more on this subject ...i 'm also wanting to the 2" lift kit ..

Read through, there are two kits on the market now, truxxx and skyjacker

Mr.Honda
12-14-2005, 03:51 PM
Read through, there are two kits on the market now, truxxx and skyjacker

i wanted some feedback about the two kits and wheel and tire combo's

AMLEO
12-25-2005, 11:44 AM
Any change in the ride at all? vibrations, stiffness, etc...???

Whaleya
12-26-2005, 07:56 PM
Is a four wheel alignment needed after the spacers are installed?

How hard is it to install?

minihummer
12-27-2005, 01:34 PM
what about the cornering and handling? Has it been affected with the 2" lift? I am actually amazed of its capabilities around the turns and bends and don't want to loose this...

bliss53
12-28-2005, 06:08 AM
Thule fit kit update. The kits are not available yet. They are a month or so away from shipping.

Just got a shipping notice for the Thule fit kit. I will report and post pictures when I get it.

Buff
12-28-2005, 07:18 AM
How long are your cross bars? I too have a complete Thule setup but it was on a much smaller car. My cross bars are 50".

hnc
12-28-2005, 07:29 AM
How long are your cross bars? I too have a complete Thule setup but it was on a much smaller car. My cross bars are 50".

Buff,

I also had a complete setup for my Mazda MX6 (48" bars), but I had to buy the 58 inch load bars.

bliss53
12-28-2005, 12:07 PM
The Thule automated fit program recommends the 58" bars. You can order the bars alone from ORSracksdirect.com for $45. The full set up with bars, feet and fit kit was $186.30 with free shipping.

Buff
12-28-2005, 04:54 PM
The Thule automated fit program recommends the 58" bars.

I verified that this morning when I put my old Thule "setup" on the roof. 50" bars are way too short. Time to do a little ebay sale of Thule rack components.

But looking at how high the roof is and looking at my garage door and the residual marks that I left on the same door when attempting to enter the garage with a bike on a previous car roof (not once but twice), I thought about switching to a bed mount option.

After a trip to Lowes, I came home with the parts in the first picture.

I cut to fit the angle iron and then spray painted it with flat black paint. I used the rubber spacers to act as a damper between the angle iron and truck bed brackets, and I used 1 1/2" washers to keep the bolts from slipping through the brackets.

The finished product looks like the 2nd picture.

Luckily, the bike just fits. In fact, it fits perfectly with the tailgate wedging the bike in securely.

(see third picture)

I just returned from my sea trials on the freeway. The bike stays in very securely with very little side to side oscillations. However, the cross bar does twist a little bit. I might replace it with some 1" square, steel tubing that I saw at the store. I think the torsional strength will be better.

Total cost with one bike mount: about $44.

Oh, and one last thing, you can still open the trunk with the bike attached to the rack.

hnc
12-29-2005, 03:46 AM
I verified that this morning when I put my old Thule "setup" on the roof. 50" bars are way too short. Time to do a little ebay sale of Thule rack components.

But looking at how high the roof is and looking at my garage door and the residual marks that I left on the same door when attempting to enter the garage with a bike on a previous car roof (not once but twice), I thought about switching to a bed mount option.

After a trip to Lowes, I came home with the parts in the first picture.

I cut to fit the angle iron and then spray painted it with flat black paint. I used the rubber spacers to act as a damper between the angle iron and truck bed brackets, and I used 1 1/2" washers to keep the bolts from slipping through the brackets.

The finished product looks like the 2nd picture.

Luckily, the bike just fits. In fact, it fits perfectly with the tailgate wedging the bike in securely.

(see third picture)

I just returned from my sea trials on the freeway. The bike stays in very securely with very little side to side oscillations. However, the cross bar does twist a little bit. I might replace it with some 1" square, steel tubing that I saw at the store. I think the torsional strength will be better.

Total cost with one bike mount: about $44.

Oh, and one last thing, you can still open the trunk with the bike attached to the rack.

That's cool and the price is right! Thanks for posting the pics. Let us know how the steel tubing works

bliss53
12-29-2005, 07:52 PM
Mounted my Thule set up tonight. Great fit. Very solid. Some wind noise with a ski rack and two pair of skis but no worse than the oem rack. I was worried that the rack might block the xm signal. No problems yet.

Chip
12-29-2005, 11:21 PM
Mounted my Thule set up tonight. Great fit. Very solid. Some wind noise with a ski rack and two pair of skis but no worse than the oem rack. I was worried that the rack might block the xm signal. No problems yet.

Been thinking about this, any chance you could post a few pictures??

Chip

mayfielh
12-30-2005, 09:09 AM
I was going to make a mount for my DH bike but the front wheel is just too big a PITA to take off and put on so I just run mine motorcycle style in the bed. If you only have one bike in the bed you can still close the tailgate. I have the bed extender for the days I have multiple bikes riding.

Buff
12-30-2005, 11:31 AM
What size frame is your Specialized?



21" Frame

Good luck with your project. I was trying to think of a way to use my Thule components too so I am interested in seeing what you come up with.

Buff
12-30-2005, 11:33 AM
Mounted my Thule set up tonight. Great fit. Very solid. Some wind noise with a ski rack and two pair of skis but no worse than the oem rack. I was worried that the rack might block the xm signal. No problems yet.

Hey Bliss53, what is it like lifting the bike up there? Can you do it standing on the ground?

bliss53
01-03-2006, 05:51 AM
I have not tried the bikes yet. I have the ski rack on for now. Some new wind noise but not to bad. When I have some skis in the rack they appear to increase the signal breaks on the XM radio. I will post some pics tomorrow.

jays0n
01-10-2006, 02:14 PM
Does anyone actually have pictures of the fit kit installed? I need to figure out how I'm going to get my 15.5' and 17' kayaks from MA to WA when we move in June, the Element is being transported and it currently has the racks. We want to get Thule feet for the Ridgeline and just swap over the rest, what experience have people had with the new fit kit?

hnc
01-11-2006, 06:49 AM
Does anyone actually have pictures of the fit kit installed? I need to figure out how I'm going to get my 15.5' and 17' kayaks from MA to WA when we move in June, the Element is being transported and it currently has the racks. We want to get Thule feet for the Ridgeline and just swap over the rest, what experience have people had with the new fit kit?

I had a Thule setup on my old Mazda MX6 and moved it to my RL a few weeks ago. On the MX6, the mounts dug into the weatherstripping, which eventually caused some problems. Not so with the RL - much nicer and less intrusive fit. I don't have any problems with wind noise (I think the large fairing helps), but that could be because my hearing is bad to begin with:) Haven't seen a noticeable impact on gas mileage (two fillups since the install have shown identical MPG)

I'll post pictures later this week - right now I'm out in Bermuda.

jays0n
01-11-2006, 10:07 AM
sweet, I'll keep watch for them, enjoy your trip

rtpjunior
01-12-2006, 11:20 AM
I saw this auction today on Ebay for a 2" lift kit :

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Honda-Ridgeline-lift-kit-Ridgeline-2-inch-lift-kit_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33585QQitemZ8029592 717QQrdZ1

It states the lift kit was made by Truxx. Has anyone had any experience/info ??

nevadagarth
01-12-2006, 11:37 AM
Be carefull with a lift kit. The change in the vehicles dynamics will completely change the VTM, VSA, ABS, and brake force distribution.

See page 181 of your owner's manual and consult the interview with Gary Flint. He basically says any modification to the handling characteristics of the Ridgeline void the warranty. Just something to consider.

TheRidgester
01-12-2006, 12:18 PM
Talked with truxxx to check there price. $699 retail.
The kits hit the streets last week, so they are out.
They also mentioned be careful of this ebay ad... not authorized...price is under dealers cost, so they may be not legit.
He also thanked me for heads up on the ebay dude, as they are going to go after them... the ebay dude even used there picture:rolleyes:

hnc
01-12-2006, 12:29 PM
sweet, I'll keep watch for them, enjoy your trip
Here's some photos. The first one is a closeup of the driver mount with the door open and the second one is with the door closed.

Chip
01-12-2006, 01:43 PM
That looks like it'll hold most anything, thanks for the close-ups!!

The only other option I would consider would be installing tracks, either Thule or Yakima. Though I'm not thrilled about drilling holes, the ones I've seen look factory and often are more flexible (as far as attachements) and sometimes even handle more weight.

Yakima sent me a reply today stating that they are working on some options for the RL. Also curious to get the details on the Thule track install I saw here!

Chip

kdogofjtown
01-12-2006, 01:53 PM
Made me think of a very detailed post by another member.

http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?p=15756#post15756

CTRidgeline
01-12-2006, 02:01 PM
Did ya catch the sellers name on ebay.... "blowupyourcar".... I wouldn't think too many folks would like to buy car parts from him! :D :D

bliss53
01-12-2006, 05:29 PM
Here's some photos. The first one is a closeup of the driver mount with the door open and the second one is with the door closed.

Thanks for posting the pictures. Sorry I did not get to it. What is the model number of the faring?

hnc
01-12-2006, 05:58 PM
Thanks for posting the pictures. Sorry I did not get to it. What is the model number of the faring?
No problem.

The fairing is the 873 Fairing (X-Large). The list price from Thule is 60, but I got it on sale at Orsdirect for 44 in December.

I also bought the Thule Load Bars - LB58 for 41.60.

Snapshot
01-12-2006, 06:07 PM
what would you like to know about the truxxx lift kit? It comes with everything you need to install it. The driving and handling of the truck is the same as before installation of unit, only taller off the road.

ssg
01-12-2006, 07:17 PM
The driving and handling of the truck is the same as before installation of unit, only taller off the road.
There is no difference between the desert and the ocean, the ocean is just wet.

Snapshot
01-12-2006, 08:55 PM
Will get you some photo this weekend. Truxxx want some pictures of the truck rised. So will snap some shot for you to see.

AMLEO
01-15-2006, 09:05 AM
Just received my "Skyjacker" 2 inch..will post pics when installed..keeping my fiingers crossed..I heard that Skyjacker is a really good company and that some dealerships are also purchasing these kits and installing them for the showroom floor..with all of the accessories..
AM

fightingmink
01-15-2006, 11:00 AM
As cautioned repeatedly – proceed at your own risk.

Well said... I've seen on TV and read in articles concerning the potential dangers in installing "larger" circumferenced rims on SUV's, adding to the roll-overs. Lifted trucks do look nice and serve a purpose for off-roading. But I don't want to compromise safety for looks... well not much. I'm searching for nice 18's and won't touch the ride height.

Being in the Marines in the late 80's during the turnover from jeeps to HMMWV's, we did a lot of off-road training. But compared those vehicles to the lifted private vehicles, the HMMWV's sat lower. I've trained drivers for HMMWV in all types of driving conditions and there was an instance where we (I) did some low-speed manuevers in sand and almost flipped it. Imagine if it had a higher profile... It was mentioned here somewhere, but caution shouldn't be replaced by ignorance.

I'm not planning of entering the Baja, I just want my 18's and no lift, but those lifted RLs look nice, especially with their 20's.:)

AMLEO
01-15-2006, 08:05 PM
Roger that..but two inches on the Ridgeline is not that drastic of a lift..It looks like it will sit like a stock Toyota Tacoma TRD..Hopefully, it will be just enough to give the truck what I feel it is missing..Boys and their toys..Hooah!!!
AM

minihummer
01-15-2006, 11:56 PM
Any more info Amleo on your install, ride quality, cornering capabilities....etc.

Thanks.

fightingmink
01-16-2006, 12:00 AM
Roger that..but two inches on the Ridgeline is not that drastic of a lift..It looks like it will sit like a stock Toyota Tacoma TRD..Hopefully, it will be just enough to give the truck what I feel it is missing..Boys and their toys..Hooah!!!
AM

Any pics? Let us know how it looks and feels. I might have a change of mind. :cool:

AMLEO
01-16-2006, 06:22 AM
Any pics? Let us know how it looks and feels. I might have a change of mind. :cool:
Now your talking.!!!..

Snapshot
01-16-2006, 08:45 PM
Installation information for Truxxx 2 inch lift kit and some pictures.

Snapshot
01-16-2006, 09:12 PM
Using Truxxx lift kit

Lingered_I
01-16-2006, 09:24 PM
Snapshot - did you do the install yourself? Any tips for the DIY folk?

Snapshot
01-16-2006, 09:39 PM
Had a license mechanic install the system. Since Hawaii you need to get a reconstruction sticker for any changes to the vehicle, for safety reason. Did not have all the right tools. But Truxxx told me you can do it yourself if you are experience and have all the right tools.

Loving the feel of the new ride. Driving the Ridgeline still feels the same if the truck was not lifted. Handling is the same.

TheRidgester
01-16-2006, 09:43 PM
Had a license mechanic install the system. Since Hawaii you need to get a reconstruction sticker for any changes to the vehicle, for safety reason. Did not have all the right tools. But Truxxx told me you can do it yourself if you are experience and have all the right tools.

Loving the feel of the new ride. Driving the Ridgeline still feels the same if the truck was not lifted. Handling is the same.
Snapshot.... sounds great, any pic's of the RL & how it looks with the lift?
thanks

AMLEO
01-16-2006, 09:45 PM
My friend has had his lift in for over a month now. After he let me drive it I couldnt tell of any change in steering, stiffness,handleing, ect....Ive had many lifted trucks and I think putting larger tires and wheels on The Ridgeline would effect it more than this kit. These pictures dont show the lift well but it is 2"s. I tried getting pics of the spacers but they didnt turn out. It would be best to get them with the wheels off.Ill try to get some with both trucks side by side on more even ground. AMLEO you wont be disappointed. With those new tires and wheels thats going to look mighty fine. Are you installing it yourself or ?Mines on order:D The Silver RL has the lift, mine is the Blue RL.

I am having it installed tomorrow..I already had put 275x60x17's (30x11) Toyo Open Country A/T's with the stock wheels months before any lifts were available..no rubbing at all..Even after the lift I dont know if the 265x70x17's will fit w/o trimming..Boyd used 245x70x17's which are 30.4 x 10..They seemed to fit w/o trimming...wheels make a difference also..my Toyo could use wider rims for sure..I had purchased my tires before the lifts were even available...WHERE DOES IT END???
I will attach the before and after pics this week..
AM

Snapshot
01-17-2006, 12:23 AM
Here my Pic of my Lifted Ridgeline

lowrider90
01-17-2006, 10:57 AM
Hey snapshot, can you talk a bit more on the handling aspect. I have been iching to lift my truck, I really want the extra clearance for off road.

I'm tire of having to place my track while off road. how does it fele/sound on the highway. how about high speed passing/breaking? how about turns both slow and fast? howz your line of sight out the rear window? will short people need a step ladder?

If you haven't wil test out your lifted ridge and post your results here.

Really want to do the lift.

Do you know what parts of the warranty become void once you lifted the ridge.

know I'm asking a lot, but you can be a big help to all who are wanting to lift.

Thanks so much inadvance, J


BTW your ridgeline looks great!

Yooper
01-17-2006, 01:53 PM
Does anyone have info and pics of the Thule feet attaching to an existing Ridge roof rack?

bliss53
01-17-2006, 02:07 PM
Thanks for the info. I used to work at ORS years and years ago. Very good folks.

nevadagarth
01-17-2006, 02:12 PM
The driving and handling of the truck is the same as before installation of unit, only taller off the road.

Except if you consider that the center of gravity has been raised which is not included in the computations that the computer uses to judge whether or not the vehicle is in a safe situation or not.

I STRONGLY encourage everyone who is considering a lift kit or modifications to the size of wheels and tires to read Gary Flint's interview which can be accessed on the ROC homepage. The fourth or fifth page has some great advice and points to consider.

Ruffles
01-17-2006, 02:26 PM
Any idea what the difference is between the 2 kits? The Skyjacker is $270 and the Truxx is $700. Does the Skyjacker kit include EVERYTHING you need to do it or is that the reason for the price difference?

Webwader
01-17-2006, 02:26 PM
If I install a lift kit, larger wheels and tires, and a real bull bar, can I make the RL handling and safety more like that of a "real truck"? :D

nevadagarth
01-17-2006, 02:39 PM
If I install a lift kit, larger wheels and tires, and a real bull bar, can I make the RL handling and safety more like that of a "real truck"? :D
Would that be unsafe and top heavy?!:p ;) :rolleyes:

Just so you know, lifting my Ridgeline is not for me, but if you want to, there is nothing stopping you. I just want to let you know there are more things to consider than looks. Also note that I am an Engineer and for the most part think of things as a function rather than a form. In other words, I mostly err on the side of safety over aesthetics.

mayfielh
01-17-2006, 02:39 PM
If I install a lift kit, larger wheels and tires, and a real bull bar, can I make the RL handling and safety more like that of a "real truck"? :D
Nope you still have to remove the trunk to be a truck. :D
RTL owners also need to remove the in dash Nav 'cause you don't need no stinkin puter tell'n you where to go, that's your job. Sides you aint lost your explorin.

Webwader
01-17-2006, 03:22 PM
Also note that I am an Engineer and for the most part think of things as a function rather than a form. In other words, I mostly err on the side of safety over aesthetics.
I was also an engineer in a former life and have always been a believer of "form follows function" and not the reverse.

In answer to your question, yes it would, not to mention a more harsh ride.

nevadagarth
01-17-2006, 05:52 PM
I am lifting my Ridgeline . I (in part) bought my Ridgeline because of the looks. I am not an Engineer, and have probley use my RL more functionally than you would ever will. We are only talking 2"s here not 4",6",8" with 35's. Ive talked to my dealer and they dont have a problem with it. Now I here dealers are installing them. What makes the anti lift RL owners come on this thread to put it down anyway:rolleyes: .Have you ever gone Off Road? Sorry, I think Ill go over to the add on thread and complain about the roof rack. You know it makes the RL top heavy and it might roll when you put bikes,canoes ect. on it.
Easy northernlights. :eek: Check out my pictures from the threads I have started or the January Ridgeline of the Month. That will answer any questions regarding if I have taken my Ridgeline off road or if I have put the Ridgeline through it's paces either on dry pavement, dirt, snow, or very deep water. Also check out my posts regarding using the hauling capabilities of the Ridgeline. One of the reasons I purchased the Ridgeline so early (early May of 2005) was to put in our backyard and help with a community playground build for my daughters' daycare. My truck's bed is throughly scratched and the rear suspension load has been utilized, but not exceeded.

Please notice the "smilies" I placed on the post. Also, notice that I said if "you" (or whoever) wants to lift your Ridgeline, that is your perogative. I was stating that I am an Engineer to give "you" (or whoever) an idea that I am conservative and want to know what some of the issues are (or can be) when it comes to making decisions.

I also just wanted people to know what Gary Flint said. We as a group are very fortunate to have had him sit down for an interview for our ROC.

I was not attacking you or any one else for raising the Ridgeline 2". Two inches is not a lot compared to a 6" lift with 22" rims, but it is different than the original set up of the Ridgeline. That is all I was trying to say.:o Besides, two bikes or a canoe do not add as much weight to the overall tip ability as compared to a lifted vehicle body. The suspension and vehicle computer would not really be able to tell the difference between a roof rack with two bikes (or a canoe) or four adults sitting in the cab as opposed to one.

Believe me......it is your Ridgeline....by all means, do what ever you would like to it! I am but a lone water drop in the sea of the information highway.

5S Dude
01-17-2006, 06:10 PM
I am lifting my Ridgeline . I (in part) bought my Ridgeline because of the looks. I am not an Engineer, and have probley use my RL more functionally than you would ever will. We are only talking 2"s here not 4",6",8" with 35's. Ive talked to my dealer and they dont have a problem with it. Now I here dealers are installing them. What makes the anti lift RL owners come on this thread to put it down anyway:rolleyes: .Have you ever gone Off Road? Sorry, I think Ill go over to the add on thread and complain about the roof rack. You know it makes the RL top heavy and it might roll when you put bikes,canoes ect. on it.

I think the 2.0” suspension lift and larger off-road tire treatment looks cool and I’ve done this mod to the last two 4WD Nissans we had. Mrs. 5S Dude keeps telling me I’m getting old but I really don’t want to huck my new dirt bike any higher than I have to now. Actually, she is the one who pointed out the fact that they have two lift kits available for our Ridgeline because she had seen me making cardboard patterns for some skid plate ideas I had. I’ve even contemplated not modifying the exhaust which is what I have always done in the past. This truck is so smooth & quiet. That is what I’ve come to enjoy most about this truck. You younger guys can make yours louder and taller in the saddle and that’s perfectly cool with me because I like that stuff too. I just think Nevadagarth and a few other members just want to convey their position and really don’t mean to diss anyone here, if anything, they just want our fellow members to be safe. Thanks for listening to my (old guy) babble….

nevadagarth
01-17-2006, 07:45 PM
I think the 2.0” suspension lift and larger off-road tire treatment looks cool and I’ve done this mod to the last two 4WD Nissans we had. Mrs. 5S Dude keeps telling me I’m getting old but I really don’t want to huck my new dirt bike any higher than I have to now. Actually, she is the one who pointed out the fact that they have two lift kits available for our Ridgeline because she had seen me making cardboard patterns for some skid plate ideas I had. I’ve even contemplated not modifying the exhaust which is what I have always done in the past. This truck is so smooth & quiet. That is what I’ve come to enjoy most about this truck. You younger guys can make yours louder and taller in the saddle and that’s perfectly cool with me because I like that stuff too. I just think Nevadagarth and a few other members just want to convey their position and really don’t mean to diss anyone here, if anything, they just want our fellow members to be safe. Thanks for listening to my (old guy) babble….
Thank you 5S Dude. I would like to add that I think the 2" lift looks good also, but I want everyone to be informed about what a lift can do to the vehicle. Function over form for me.:)

ProHonda
01-17-2006, 08:36 PM
Since there is no lift blocks, spring change 2" should be PLENTY safe.

I also could use more ground clearance and a BETTER look :D

AMLEO
01-18-2006, 08:15 PM
I had the "Skyjacker" installed today..It came out great and the ride is unchanged...both in the city and highways..I will take pics tomorrow and post them..For me..it is exactly what the truck was lacking..My advice for anyone on the "Fence" u won't be sorry..I was afraid of some new funky lights on the dashboard went it left the shop..No new lights..Torzo premier soft top is next..
AM

Snapshot
01-18-2006, 10:57 PM
Hi Lowrider90,

the truck sound the same at low and high speeds.

braking is the same too.

the only change in driving is turning off of the freeways making a banking turn, was taking turns at about 40 mph before the lift kit was installed, so now I slow down to about 30-35 mph.

I am about 5' 5 " tall and I climb in the cab with no problems, but I have on order a nerb bar for now since my girlfriend is shorter.

view out the rear window is the same to me, since I used the rear camera and sensors to check if anyone is in the back of the truck.

you have to check with your dealer if the warranty will be effected by lifting the truck. In my opinion it should not effect it at all the warranty.

lowrider90
01-19-2006, 08:46 AM
Thanks for the update, I will probably do the lift within the next few months in prpearation for the nice weather.
j

lowrider90
01-19-2006, 12:36 PM
Will you be changing your screenname as well? :D

No, but maybe a nick name..."up on a ridgeline".

T Mac
01-23-2006, 04:54 PM
They have been removed by your helpful moderator. :)

The person trying to sell you Truxxx kits is no longer a dealer.

IShootPics
01-23-2006, 05:10 PM
They have been removed by your helpful moderator. :)

The person trying to sell you Truxxx kits is no longer a dealer.


figured as much... I was lookin out for my ridgey bretheren :D

Gordkoff
01-23-2006, 05:14 PM
Just to clarify... He never had any Truxxx kits to sell...

T Mac
01-23-2006, 06:10 PM
Yes... we have connections in many of the right places. :)

zero
01-23-2006, 06:35 PM
Folks, just call him T Mac, the Spam Assassin.

Back on topic, please anyone who gets a LEGITIMATE lift kit post pics.

AMLEO
01-24-2006, 06:26 AM
Some quick pics..I just added the rear mud flaps yesterday and the skyjacker 2 inch last week..No change in the ride...
AM

5S Dude
01-24-2006, 07:58 AM
Some quick pics..I just added the rear mud flaps yesterday and the skyjacker 2 inch last week..No change in the ride...
AM

Wow AMLEO, it looks basically stock to the untrained eye! Can you shoot some photos with your Ridge parked next to a stocker? Also, for our "Short members" (Me!) is there any hinderance getting in or out of a lifted Ridgeline? Thanks for the photos.:p

zero
01-24-2006, 08:13 AM
AMLEO,
Great pictures. Are you going to get beefier tires to complete the look?

Ruffles
01-24-2006, 09:59 AM
Looks good AMLEO. You've inspired me to order the Skyjacker kit. I should get it in about a week. Then I'll need to decided if I want to attempt install or take it someplace. How much and how long did your install take?

Ruffles
01-24-2006, 02:48 PM
Thanks. I just talked to a shop who guessed a couple of hours @ $60/ hour. They also recommended an alignment afterwards for another $40. I'm guessing I'll be under $200 to get it installed.

AMLEO
01-24-2006, 08:44 PM
AMLEO,
Great pictures. Are you going to get beefier tires to complete the look?

I took my truck to a custom truck shop..and it took them roughly three hours and I also got the front and rear allignment for a total of $370.00..I already had the Toyo A/Ts..275x60x17's which are 30x11..The Boyd Coddington Truck (Silver) also had the skyjacker and they used 245x70's which are only .5 inches taller than my Toyos and about one inch narrower..So I will keep my Toyos and am considering a little wider wheels..Cant see changing out these tires for 1/2 an inch..The truck looks at lot taller than stock in person..I dont really want to got that much taller than 30's because I like the space between the body and tires..If I go to big the truck will lose the lifted effect...I know that my stock wheels are a little narrow for 275's..$$$$$$..Where does it end??

lowrider90
01-25-2006, 01:00 PM
Anyone here able to save me research time? what are the differences if any between the truxx and skyjacker Kits?

zero
01-25-2006, 01:37 PM
You guys are making me jealous with installing these lift kits. What kind of 'custom truck shop' do you all find to install these things?

lowrider90
01-25-2006, 02:38 PM
You guys are making me jealous with installing these lift kits. What kind of 'custom truck shop' do you all find to install these things?


we have a local few local shops who deal exclusively with truck customizing, but with the lift kit, it may br cheaper to have honda do it, since there techs deal with the struts, i assume, on a regular basis and have the tools handy

AMLEO
01-25-2006, 06:27 PM
we have a local few local shops who deal exclusively with truck customizing, but with the lift kit, it may br cheaper to have honda do it, since there techs deal with the struts, i assume, on a regular basis and have the tools handy


There is nothing cheap about the dealership..If anything the labor will be double..Go for the lift..You won't be sorry..It looks much better in person than pics actually show..

Snapshot
01-25-2006, 09:14 PM
I know Truxxx.com has dealer around the country that sell and install, their lift kit. The truxxx kit comes complete with four lift unit and two struts unit to replace the front unit, comes with nuts for the lift unit. You might want to order replacement strut nuts (4) just encase the nuts are frozen to the struts. Also get all four wheel alignment done and headlights adjustment.

lowrider90
01-30-2006, 01:22 PM
just ordered my lift kit, $699.00 pluse 5$ shipping. 4 strut spacers with studs and 2 rear sway bar links to prevent binding. about a week to get here from AZ.
will post some pics from the beach when it is finished, J in the meantime here is a pic for you pleasure

I had to play with the photo so you could see it. it was kind of dark and hard to see.

Ruffles
01-30-2006, 05:56 PM
I got my Skyjacker lift kit today. In case anyone is interested, here's what comes in the box. It looks like it's made from some pretty heavy duty steel but I think at $270, it's still over priced. I don't have a scanner so I snapped a few pics of the install instructions as well. Hopefully, I'll get it installed this week.

http://www.ridges.dynip.com/images/Ridgeline/lift1.jpg
http://www.ridges.dynip.com/images/Ridgeline/lift2.jpg
http://www.ridges.dynip.com/images/Ridgeline/lift3.jpg
http://www.ridges.dynip.com/images/Ridgeline/lift4.jpg

ProHonda
01-30-2006, 05:59 PM
I LOVE YOU MAN !!! :D

Thanks for the photos !!

lowrider90
01-31-2006, 08:09 AM
Hey ruffles, question for you. I spent quite a bit of time with the guys from truxxx on the phone. they are pretty firm that with the lift the rears sway bar will bind without the rears sway bar links, what are your thoughts on this?

anyone else with thoughts on this is welcome to but in too!

Ruffles
01-31-2006, 10:20 AM
I'm not sure if binding will be a problem or not. I plan to hang over the techs shoulder during the install so I'll talk to him about it and if it appears to be a problem, I'll probably go back to stock and contact Skyjacker. Maybe I'll have him start with the rear end first just to be safe.

Not to knock Truxx or anything but their kit is quite a bit more $$$ than the Skyjacker so I'm sure they would say the links are necessary to justify the price.

lowrider90
01-31-2006, 10:45 AM
I'm not sure if binding will be a problem or not. I plan to hang over the techs shoulder during the install so I'll talk to him about it and if it appears to be a problem, I'll probably go back to stock and contact Skyjacker. Maybe I'll have him start with the rear end first just to be safe.

Not to knock Truxx or anything but their kit is quite a bit more $$$ than the Skyjacker so I'm sure they would say the links are necessary to justify the price.

If you don't mind let me know how it goes. I was very comfortable with the knowledge of the guy I spoke with from truxxx. I know it was expensive, but i do appreciate someone who really know his product and why it was built the way it was. they are routinely doing the install in about 1.5 hours. hence the reason why I didn't go with skyjacker. but i almost did. i'm sure the spacers are basically identical (between skyjacker and truxxx i mean) they said the front was fine but the rear really needed the extra link. call them, they are really nice to talk with, you'll get a sence of security with them. I hope that translates to a product to back them up.,, jay

AMLEO
01-31-2006, 08:31 PM
I would think the links are for people being more agressive off road? Over 1000miles on the Skyjacker and no problems.
Ditto...what size tires and or wheels are you going to run with? I feel that if u go with say 265x70's may rub or take away from the apperance of the lift..what do u guys think?
AM

Ruffles
01-31-2006, 08:58 PM
I plan to stick with the stock tire / rim for a while. If I do upgrade, it will probably be with 20" rims and what ever tire size will maintain the OEM diameter of 29.5".

AMLEO
01-31-2006, 09:23 PM
I plan to stick with the stock tire / rim for a while. If I do upgrade, it will probably be with 20" rims and what ever tire size will maintain the OEM diameter of 29.5".


Thats probably a good idea..I have Toyo A/T's right now before the lift was available but they still look good..29.9 x 11's...ride is identical..Boyd Coddington truck went with the 245x70x17 with the skyjacker but they are only .5 inches taller and 1.5 inches narrower than mine..I am still looking for rims that I like..I just want to keep the ride nice..

lowrider90
02-01-2006, 07:16 AM
if anyone is interested, I will stick with stock for a while, but a change is definately going to happen. however, I will probably go with a 15inch wheel as the smaller wheels are better for 4wd with this size tire. looking for a 70-75% side wall height. 20" wheel are ok if you can get tires in the wheel wells and keep the 70-75% side wall hieght. thinner tire are better for traction off road, but wider tires are better for sand driving which i do a lot, so i ahve some thinking to do in this area.

1000s mile with the skyjackers, and no problems sounds like everything is going ok.

mayfielh
02-01-2006, 09:23 AM
Just a question.
I went to both Skyjacker and Truxxx sites and both pages list the products for the RL as still in developement and to call them. So are you guys getting pre-production models or have they just not updated their pages?

Ruffles
02-01-2006, 09:37 AM
They haven't updated their sites. On the Truxx site, you can register to recieve email when it's ready. I got email from them a couple of weeks ago saying they were shipping. For the Skyjacker kit, I followed the link to RockyMountian Suspension.com site earlier in the thread. Their site shows the kit for $273. You order from them and then the kit comes straight from Skyjacker.

lowrider90
02-01-2006, 11:08 AM
Just a question.
I went to both Skyjacker and Truxxx sites and both pages list the products for the RL as still in developement and to call them. So are you guys getting pre-production models or have they just not updated their pages?

my guess is they have not update the website, it is some work to do so, probably cosstly too ( unless they can do it themselves)

lowrider90
02-01-2006, 11:09 AM
They haven't updated their sites. On the Truxx site, you can register to recieve email when it's ready. I got email from them a couple of weeks ago saying they were shipping. For the Skyjacker kit, I followed the link to RockyMountian Suspension.com site earlier in the thread. Their site shows the kit for $273. You order from them and then the kit comes straight from Skyjacker.


Funny, I emailed truxxx twice and did not get a response yet. both within a week or so.

They picked up the phone right away though, J

lowrider90
02-01-2006, 02:57 PM
Sorry to say but it aint gonna happen, I think the rotors are to big. The fronts messure around 13" and the rears about 14" and to have only 1/2"-1" to spare? If you can find a set to try out let me know.

your right about that, I new that too, don't know why I forgot about it. largest front rotors on trucks this size. limits what i want to do. I saw a pic of a ridgeline by honda with a so called off orad package (not in production) with 15s on it. it was what i am looking for.

AMLEO
02-01-2006, 03:44 PM
so u think 265x70's wont fit with the two inch sky jacker kit? maybe thats why boyd coddington went with the 245x70's..for clearance...

AMLEO
02-01-2006, 07:16 PM
?? I have the 30x11 Toyos installed on stock wheels before the skyjacker..now I have more clearnace with the skyjacker..Just wondering how much larger I could go without any trimming..The front still doesnt seem like u could go all that much larger..

Ruffles
02-03-2006, 09:54 AM
I talked to my dealer about the lift. They are going to install it and not void my warranty. The only exception would be if part of the lift actually broke something else. I'll get it done next Friday so I'll post some before and after pics.

mayfielh
02-03-2006, 09:59 AM
You know what would be cool is a pic in the same place so we can see a reference point, next to a tree or yard stick something that could be marked so we could easily tell the lift difference.

Ruffles
02-03-2006, 10:29 AM
You know what would be cool is a pic in the same place so we can see a reference point, next to a tree or yard stick something that could be marked so we could easily tell the lift difference.


No problem. I'll see what I can do.

Cappi's Ridgy
02-05-2006, 12:04 AM
You need to do some more research because I believe that there is someone in the club that has a lift on their Ridgeline. Don't like the look of it, but I saw one.

Ruffles
02-05-2006, 08:28 AM
My appointment to get it installed is Tues 8AM. The dealer is going to do it. I'll let you know how it goes.

ridgeln
02-05-2006, 02:44 PM
Wow - you all have my respect for voiding the warranty on the suspension of your trucks. Do Truxx and Skyjacker cover the suspension once you put their lift kits on? Not wanting to be a party-pooper, but to me, this would be a big deal. Having had a discussion with a Honda R&D engineer who had a hand in the suspension and drive train, he specifically made a comment to not lift the truck due to the independent suspension (even "just 2 inches?" I asked - even 2 inches - he replied) - his comment included that if you were to lift the truck, you would need to switch out lots of suspension components, not just adding pieces.

My 2 cents - but I will admit that I like the look of the lifted truck w/ the bigger tires, but won't be doing it any time soon to mine.

-ridgeln

Ruffles
02-05-2006, 02:48 PM
I talked to Honda too. My dealer is installing the lift and has stated that it will not void my warranty.

ridgeln
02-05-2006, 03:04 PM
Wow - Honda must be way more lenient than Dodge (my previous truck was a Dodge - ANY modification of the suspension and Dodge would automatically void any warranty work for the suspension) - Please, make sure you get it in writing that your dealership will specifically cover any/all warranty issues related to the suspension. Don't just take the word of someone. Please!

Can't wait to see your pics.

-ridgeln

lowrider90
02-07-2006, 01:00 PM
My appointment to get it installed is Tues 8AM. The dealer is going to do it. I'll let you know how it goes.


It is now 3:00pm EST where are the pics?? , I have an appointment next tues for install of the truxxx kit.

Ruffles
02-07-2006, 05:14 PM
Ok. Please excuse the horrible pictures and dirty truck. I was in a bit of a hurry. The lift is perfect. It's just the right height and to me looks like a factory off-road package. I was nervous at first because when they first lowered the truck off the lift, it hadn't settled to ride height and looked like it had about 6" of lift. When we got it out of the garage though, it looked much better.

It's definatly noticable. Everyone at the dealer liked it. The kit took about 4 hours to install plus 1 hour for the alignment. The front end is tricky to reassemble. I'm glad I didn't try to do it myself. Also, the alignment is MANDITORY. Mine was so far out of wack it wasn't even funny.

The ride is the same but you can feel that you sit a little higher. It's great as it raises the truck to about the same height at all the other 1/2 tons out there. Neither I or the tech saw any binding anywhere. I'm completely happy with it.

Before...
http://www.ridges.dynip.com/images/Ridgeline/before_lift.jpg

After...
http://www.ridges.dynip.com/images/Ridgeline/after_lift.jpg

mayfielh
02-07-2006, 06:47 PM
The temptation grows a bit more.

It looks good. Bigger tires next?

So what was the finally tally if you don't mind sharing:
Lift Kit: ???
Install: ???
Alignment: ???

zero
02-07-2006, 08:21 PM
Oh man that looks awesome. To quote a Star Trek villian(s):

"Resistance is Futile."

I am going to have to call the dealers in the area to see if they will do the install and not nullify the warranty.

So the list grows:
Line-X
Lift
Maybe bigger tires

AMLEO
02-07-2006, 09:20 PM
Ruffles..welcome to the club!

Ruffles
02-07-2006, 10:09 PM
Thanks guys, it will look even better when I get the truck washed. As far as the price, the kit was $270. Install was $214 and the alignment was $49. As far as tires go, I won't go any taller than OEM. I'd like to get some 20" rim and what ever tire would maintain 29.5". I'd be tempted to maybe go an inch or two wider but I don't think rims will happen for a while. I'm finishing my basement and all the money has gone into it. I can't wait to get it done so I can have my garage back for the RL.

lowrider90
02-08-2006, 01:03 PM
yup it looks good, just give it a good wash and dry and a new set of kicks, and meet me on the trails!

Ruffles
02-10-2006, 12:45 PM
So, after a couple of days of driving it, I think the ride is a tiny bit firmer. It might just be my imagination though. It's not bad or anything. For the rest of you with lifts, what do you think?

Snapshot
02-11-2006, 12:12 AM
Yes, it is a little stiffer, also has to do with the amount of sidewall your tire has too. But I am having fun with my lift rdigeline.

BannedUser
02-11-2006, 04:25 AM
I like it and have wanted a lift all along but decided to let her stay the way she is.
Maybe I'll buy another Ridgeline this year and turn it into a monster truck. That would be awesome. :D

lowrider90
02-17-2006, 01:04 PM
well I guess i'm the first to get a flat with a lifted ridgeline. The car jack which comes with the ridgeline does not extend far enough to get the flat wheel off the ground.

I had to get home grab my garage floor jack to do the job.

I wonder if a man made spacer would work since the ridgeline is now 2" higher off the ground. Otherwisw i'' have to carry the floor jack in the trunk.

I'll try the spacer this week sometime and report back.

lowrider90
02-17-2006, 01:29 PM
well I guess i'm the first to get a flat with a lifted ridgeline. The car jack which comes with the ridgeline does not extend far enough to get the flat wheel off the ground.

I had to get home grab my garage floor jack to do the job.

I wonder if a man made spacer would work since the ridgeline is now 2" higher off the ground. Otherwisw i'' have to carry the floor jack in the trunk.

I'll try the spacer this week sometime and report back.

I have been waiting over a week for new tires to come in, still nothing, I'll have to wait till tues now. I guess I'm glad, I just go a flat today, glad it wasn't on a new tire.

AMLEO
02-17-2006, 01:58 PM
What size did u decide on?

Ruffles
02-17-2006, 02:07 PM
Good to know about the jack. I guess I need to keep a couple of 2x4's in the trunk just in case.

mayfielh
02-17-2006, 02:07 PM
well I guess i'm the first to get a flat with a lifted ridgeline. The car jack which comes with the ridgeline does not extend far enough to get the flat wheel off the ground.

I had to get home grab my garage floor jack to do the job.

I wonder if a man made spacer would work since the ridgeline is now 2" higher off the ground. Otherwisw i'' have to carry the floor jack in the trunk.

I'll try the spacer this week sometime and report back.
Just throw a couple of pieces of 2x4 to sit the stand on.

lowrider90
02-17-2006, 02:15 PM
What size did u decide on?


I was loking forward to try them out this weekend, but no such luck.
245/70/17

zero
02-17-2006, 07:10 PM
I can't wait to see those pictures.

lowrider90
02-18-2006, 10:34 AM
Sorry no tires yet, but wanted to check out the ride off-road with the lift kit I had installed on Tuesday.

Notice the clearance over the mogle, last week I would have scraped bottom. The new tires will add 1/2 inch to the present ride height.

I really can't notice any difference in the stiffness or lack of in the ride on the road. but I definately feel like I'm riding higher off the ground.

The lift kit is an absoute must in my opnion unless all you do is drive on tar. Then of course it is optional custom work.

zero
02-18-2006, 03:05 PM
Looks really good. Thanks for posting the pics.

Can't wait to see it with the new tires.

Webwader
02-21-2006, 04:47 PM
I'm curious to know how many of you that have installed lift kits have had your headlights readjusted to compensate for the higher ride height?

Snapshot
02-21-2006, 07:13 PM
Yes, my headlights was adjusted at the time of realignment job. (very little adjustment for what the tech told me).

MountainBiker
02-25-2006, 07:45 PM
Do these lift kits compensate for the camber offset caused by the lift blocks? I mean, is it just a minor tweak needed for alignment, or is a large adjustment necessary to compensate for camber?

If there is built in compensation, then the lift block end plates would be offset from each other.

lowrider90
02-26-2006, 08:30 AM
Do these lift kits compensate for the camber offset caused by the lift blocks? I mean, is it just a minor tweak needed for alignment, or is a large adjustment necessary to compensate for camber?

If there is built in compensation, then the lift block end plates would be offset from each other.

must not becompensation, I had mine aligned after the lift it was off quite a bit.

5S Dude
02-26-2006, 09:00 AM
Do any of you guys with the 2 inch lifts installed load bikes in the back? This is my only concern as I'm a short sh#$%^ and getting my bikes loaded is a "TALL" order as it is. I'm leaning towards the Off-Road theme but this dilemma will be my only roadblock in joining your group. Thanks so much.

Ron (5S Dude)

DoctorJ
02-26-2006, 09:06 AM
Do any of you guys with the 2 inch lifts installed load bikes in the back? This is my only concern as I'm a short sh#$%^ and getting my bikes loaded is a "TALL" order as it is. I'm leaning towards the Off-Road theme but this dilemma will be my only roadblock in joining your group. Thanks so much.

Ron (5S Dude)

I have the height challenged problem as well and I always cranked em' up and road right onto the truck. Can you do that?

5S Dude
02-26-2006, 09:24 AM
I have the height challenged problem as well and I always cranked em' up and road right onto the truck. Can you do that?

Yeah, I used to do exactly that about 20 years ago. but now I'm an old fart and if I "Miss" the loading ramp I'm gonna be in a world of hurt. Ya know what I'm sayin........:D :D :D

hurleyint04
02-28-2006, 11:01 PM
skyjacker makes a 2 inch lift kit for the ridgeline, but for my offroading i dont think thats still enough ground clearance. i just broke my oil pan and some other stuff underneath with not having enough clearance. i was hoping someone would make a 4 inch lift. the product number on the skyjacker website is HR20. Also truxxx has a 2 inch proto type lift coming. im just hoping a 4 inch will be availabe because i just learned a very valuable lesson and lost a lot of money. my ridge is in the shop waiting for new parts to come and have surgery done. :(

those are the only kits that i know of that are currently out, if anyone hears of anything bigger than 2 inches for the ridgeline let me know...

ridgeln
03-01-2006, 12:13 PM
I'd be surprised if anyone came out with a lift kit that was solely spacers like the 2" in a 4" height - at that point, you'd change the suspension geometry so much that the stock parts would be way out of alignment. Talking with a Honda R&D guy who was part of the Ridgeline design and had a hand in the suspension, he strongly cautioned against lifting any height on the RL. His comment was that all the 3rd party products were cool, but that the lift kits were something that scared the he77 out of him because it threw the CG of the truck off.

my 2 cents. have fun - I do like the look of the lifted trucks.

-ridgeln

lowrider90
03-01-2006, 01:16 PM
the problem with strut spacers is that they reduce the extention capabilities or Articulation of the strut and spring. you have already extended the strut
2" out of the total (sorry I don't know the travel distance of the suspension) thereby reduce its ability to stetch. if you extend that to 4" you are really hindering the the ability of the suspension to do its job properly.

that is why you see both body lifts and suspension lifts on other model 4x4 it is not unusual to see 4-6" suspension lift and 6" body lift on regular pick ups. at the same time. it gives you the necesasary clearance to crawl over big rocks and other stuff.

hurleyint04
03-01-2006, 10:42 PM
i saw some pictures from the truxxx and skyjacker liftkits at the sema show and another show online. i read that hondas racing team used truxxx 2 inch lift for the baja 1000. do you think its still bad to lift my ridge. i just cracked an oil pan, ruined my flash gaurd and dented my exhaust piping from not having enough ground clearance :mad:

really thats a lesson learned from my experience, i didnt know the lift kits were had that much of an effect. let me know on what you guys think

lowrider90
03-02-2006, 07:30 AM
How did you get home with a cracked oil pan? And no the 2" lift will not help you. Take this as a lesson in off roading. You should have got something else to beat on. Good luck.


do you have the 2" lift on your ridgeline? because I do and it does help 1000% I checked last night and manually measured ground clearance with the lift and tires mounted. honda list clearance at 8.2"

the closed part to the ground was the muffler at 10.375" everywhere else measrued between 10.5 and 10.75"

It has made a world of difference it changed every aspect of off road driving you can think of including approach angle

did you notice the baha truck had a custom skid plate on it? I may have one done for me, I understand the safelty issues if I do that, but at least I am informed.

lowrider90
03-03-2006, 02:30 PM
pretty cool they go about anywhere

hurleyint04
03-03-2006, 06:12 PM
i think 2" could do me a lot..but id like if some company made a 4" suspension lift. i got towed out btw if you were wondering.

dhollander
03-13-2006, 05:26 PM
I put a 2" skyjacker on my and it looks great.

sonny415
03-16-2006, 01:47 AM
I put a 2" skyjacker on my and it looks great.

I just scored a set of skyjakers for my ridge on ebay for $142 shipped to hawaii. and was wondering who installed your's on your truck. I will soon be shopping around for a shop to install them , or is it easy to install yourself. Check out the link below, after that day's experience i know i need a lift kit.thanks


http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/forums/showpost.php?p=76289&postcount=135

sonny415
03-27-2006, 01:53 AM
SkyJacker Lift Installed on my Ridge This Morning. Installed by 4WheelParts. Took 2 Hours of Labor. Tires will be next. Allignment is a must because everything was way off. :) What do you guys think?

Does anyone have the Bridgestone Revos and if so what size did you go with no rubbing?

Lift Kit $142
Intall $159
Allignment $103

Truck2212
03-27-2006, 05:17 AM
Sonny415,

Looks great, Lifted Ridges are very cool looking. I enjoy the more 4x4 look than the fancy look. I found this White Ridge on the internet and it looks great. It did not mention what was altered on it. Good luck with the wheels. Search where you found you lift for "Ridgeline RTS" for more pics of the wheels and details.

7434

adaminja
04-02-2006, 11:32 AM
sonny415, thanks for posting those pics of the struts w/ spacers. My skyjacker kit is arriving next week. I however am thinking about doing the install myself since i dont have any 4x4 shops around where i live. I was wondering, since your pics imply that you were present during the process, do you think it is an install someone with reasonable mechanical ability can do? Are there any special tools needed other than spring compressor? Should I have any spares of any particular nuts/bolts/plastic snaps available just in case? Is there a web location with the instructions posted that I may look over in advance? BTW your truck looks super cool, and I can barely manage the wait for mine.

Truck2212
04-02-2006, 07:02 PM
Adaminja and Sonny415,
Please post pics when you get done. I have been waiting for the pictures of what tires you ended up with Sonny415.

I love the lifted look, Not to much but just enough!

Please post Pics.
Truck2212

IShootPics
04-13-2006, 12:54 PM
Hey Sonny, could you email me a copy of the invoice from 4wheel parts? I have a guy locally trying to rape me on the price for parts and install. You got away with about $300 less than the estimate i have. :eek:

thebizbucket
04-14-2006, 11:45 AM
Do any of you guys with the 2 inch lifts installed load bikes in the back? This is my only concern as I'm a short sh#$%^ and getting my bikes loaded is a "TALL" order as it is. I'm leaning towards the Off-Road theme but this dilemma will be my only roadblock in joining your group. Thanks so much.

Ron (5S Dude)

Wow what a trip. I have a ridge and cart around a crf150 and klx125 -- red and green. i saw that pic and did a double take. BUT ITS NOT MINE!!

Anyways - i lifted mine 2" and the bikes still get up nice and easy. I am not short tho - 6'1. But no real added effort.

5S Dude
04-14-2006, 12:42 PM
Wow what a trip. I have a ridge and cart around a crf150 and klx125 -- red and green. i saw that pic and did a double take. BUT ITS NOT MINE!!

Anyways - i lifted mine 2" and the bikes still get up nice and easy. I am not short tho - 6'1. But no real added effort.

Sweet Biz! I've already gone the street-look with 20's but I still "tiptoe" out in the desert to our staging area to ride. We just can't prerun the Baja at full stupid speed! I've just ordered the BBR exhaust and 175 kit to increase the grin factor. I swear this scooter makes me feel young again! :p

Snap some pics of your lifted rig all loaded up for us and Ride Safe!

lgmendez
04-16-2006, 11:51 AM
Ron, Here you go, post Skyjacker Kit

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34684456%3B%7Ffp5%3Enu%3D3236%3E396%3E467%3EWSNRCG %3D323253%3C6%3A5%3C%3A6nu0mrj

Pic doesn't do it justice. 2 inches made such a difference. I love it so far!!

I'm ready for El Mirage, Pismo, Glamis, where ever. haha!.

hurleyint04
04-17-2006, 10:47 PM
thats such a sick set up...i lov<3 it haha

5S Dude
04-17-2006, 10:47 PM
Gadzooks Luis!! That looks bad azzzz! Get some rims and we’ll machine some cool looking one-off blue anodized bead-locks for um. I think we should start making full race “pre runner stuff” for the off-road Ridgeline crowd starting with yours. I need a rear diff skid-plate anyhow. :p
Now go get those nerf-bars for your quad and meet us at El Mirage this Sunday!! Oh yeah, Nicole has graduated from the little 110 to a 125 so she’s gonna practice the clutch out on the lake bed. :D

lgmendez
04-18-2006, 08:40 AM
Gadzooks Luis!! That looks bad azzzz! Get some rims and we’ll machine some cool looking one-off blue anodized bead-locks for um. I think we should start making full race “pre runner stuff” for the off-road Ridgeline crowd starting with yours. I need a rear diff skid-plate anyhow. :p
Now go get those nerf-bars for your quad and meet us at El Mirage this Sunday!! Oh yeah, Nicole has graduated from the little 110 to a 125 so she’s gonna practice the clutch out on the lake bed. :D

Thanks Ron. I am still in shock just how different it looks. I know I am missing the wheels, but I have to start saving my pennies for....

http://www.hrewheels.com/images/wheels/640R_lrg_a.jpg

Once I have $6K, this will be the first thing I buy.

I am game for the skid plates. I could start a roll call somewhere on the truck for the sponsors and maybe get some buzz going.

I definitely need those nerf bars, but not sure I have have them in by Sunday, but I'm down to go to El Mirage. There is also a place right at the 15 and the 138 for trail riding which is fairly decent.

Glad to hear Nicole has graduated to a bigger beast. Pretty soon we'll be hard pressed to keep up with her.

Let me know.

rwolsen@cox.net
04-30-2006, 10:31 PM
That 2 inches do indeed give your truck a whole new look. And I like it. I checked with my dealer Friday 4-28 and was told not to do it as the warranty would be voided. Is any one from Honda listening?

toolz_not_toyz
05-01-2006, 03:22 PM
Warranty would be voided on what? The entire vehicle? The bearings, drivetrain, etc? Your probably voiding some part of the warranty if you just change the specs of your tire/wheel combination. Actually, you're probably voiding a part of the warranty if you deflate the stock tires to drive in sand.

Ruffles
05-01-2006, 04:01 PM
I mentioned this further back in the thread but my Honda dealer installed my lift for me. They said that it wouldn't void the warranty unless I had a problem where it was obvious that the lift caused it. I think individual dealers have a lot of latitude on this as many of them, not just Honda, sell new vehicles with lifts on them. This is really popular with big 3 dealers as all of them around me have new trucks on the lot with lifts, tires, and rims.

toolz_not_toyz
05-04-2006, 09:16 AM
This is really popular with big 3 dealers as all of them around me have new trucks on the lot with lifts, tires, and rims.

Well I think that's awesome because that means a trip to the service department won't cause raised eyebrows because you have a lift on your truck.

As for dealer latitude regarding warranties...I think that's really just a matter of taking it to one doctor vs another. It's all a matter of opinion.

RidgelineMan
05-25-2006, 04:38 PM
hey....I fabbed up a 4 inch lift for my ridgeline! It looks kick ass. I stuffed 35 inch BFG Mud Terrains on 18x8 Beadlock Rims. I just finished putting a chip in the engine and I am getting about 35 more horsepower. I hope that I don't need to repack my muffler bearings. With the added power on the engine

Robbw2bz
05-25-2006, 04:47 PM
hey....I fabbed up a 4 inch lift for my ridgeline! It looks kick ass. I stuffed 35 inch BFG Mud Terrains on 18x8 Beadlock Rims. I just finished putting a chip in the engine and I am getting about 35 more horsepower. I hope that I don't need to repack my muffler bearings. With the added power on the engine

Do you have Pics? Please post.

unclemepi
05-25-2006, 05:42 PM
Nice troll, Ridgeline man.

My friend had a Ranger, it inexplicably caught fire at a stoplight. Made a better road flare than a pickup truck I understand...:p

AchtungVita
05-25-2006, 06:53 PM
Ridgeline Man is just trying to show off for his Ford buddies. If you go to the link in his post you will see that they waste a lot of time bashing the Ridgeline, which is their right. But if I hated something that much I wouldn't even waste my time talking about it. I have yet to see ANY threads on this site bashing any other vehicle. I guess maturity is to blame for this. Bottom line, drive what you need to accomplish what you want to get done. If you need a truck that hauls 10,000 lb then buy a huge truck. If you just need something to pick up some stuff at Home Depot or Lowes, then buy something less aggressive. I don't think any of us in here intend on doing any hill climbs or the Black Hills challenge in our Ridgelines. Ridgeline Man, it is OK to bad mouth something in your own forum, but when you try to do it on it's home turf it makes you look like an imature idiot.

RidgelineMan
05-26-2006, 08:56 AM
yeah your right I am sorry!

mcoughlin
06-01-2006, 06:23 AM
Question regarding the 2" skyjacker lift. Did any of you consider the Goodyear MTR 265/70/17 size tire it has a 31.8" diameter size and not sure if it is too much or ok when lifting the Ridge 2"

Ruffles
06-01-2006, 08:53 AM
I think that size would fit, the question would be on offsett. If you use the stock rims, I think you'd be OK. I kept my tires as close to OEM size as possible so as not to throw off the speedo and nav.

jamminjim
11-05-2007, 01:26 AM
I Have A Truxxx Lift Kit In Frt.

JonBoy
11-05-2007, 12:05 PM
Hey Jamminjim,

What's your wheel and tire combo ? (Tire Size and Wheel Size ..)

Your truck looks great!!

DARTHRIDGE
11-20-2007, 08:38 PM
Here is a pic of a truck from truxxx web site with their 2" lift. Mine will look similar soon. The tires are 285/50r20 Nitto Terra Grapplers.

bbnmcas
11-23-2007, 10:09 AM
Nice lookin' Ridge!!!

Stackedape
11-28-2007, 10:37 AM
So, after a couple of days of driving it, I think the ride is a tiny bit firmer. It might just be my imagination though. It's not bad or anything. For the rest of you with lifts, what do you think?

Hey Guys, I'm new here on the board and I think this is great - we're all able to cover each other before the rest of us go out and experiment.

Stackedape
11-28-2007, 11:00 AM
Hey Guys, I'm new here on the board and I think this is great - we're all able to cover each other before the rest of us go out and experiment.

I too installed the 2" Truxxx Kit w/ links and had the 4 wheel alignment performed on the truck. I got carried away and went with 265/70R17 BFG A/T's and boy does is look nasty. Ride quality I would say is about 95% of what it was before. On highway ramps body roll is exactly the same as before no excessive dipping or anything like that. The inner front mud flaps and fender well needed to be trimmed to allow tires.

alleman55
11-28-2007, 11:52 AM
Stackedape I sure would love to see some pics!! As far as I can tell you are the only RL with BFG other than the Baja truck, actually I think they changed to M/T insted of A/T. Feel free to correct me if I am wrong. Thanks

alleman55
11-29-2007, 10:49 PM
HHHHMMMMM NO RELPLY:confused: IF IT LOOKS SO SICK I WOULD THINK YOU WOULD BE EXCITED TO SHOW IT OFF???

y33dave
12-17-2007, 03:32 PM
Here's mine after the lift.
26899

26900

After some minor trimming of the mudflaps and fenders - and replacing the rear strut (cuz we screwed up the install) - all is well!

Rides much nicer in my opinion, you'd be amazed what 3 inches or so can do for a truck!

northernlights
12-17-2007, 03:58 PM
Im not much for white RLs but yours looks great. No offense whities :)

qiphlow
12-19-2007, 01:59 PM
Im not much for white RLs but yours looks great. No offense whities :)

none taken.

oh, wait--you meant the truck's color, right...?
:D :D

y33dave
12-24-2007, 07:37 AM
26998

yah - none taken !

Six Rails
12-24-2007, 07:50 AM
Why jeopardize the handling. Or are you looking for ground clearance for off road
? Personally my Ridgeline will never see the woods. I Guess it looks cool.

No Offence - ROC on Kevin :)

jamminjim
01-07-2008, 12:31 AM
i put a leveling kit on my truck in frt to get a prerunner look what do think?

SpartanML
01-07-2008, 09:34 PM
I would like to lift my truck but remain weary about it after a stern warning from Gary Flint several months ago. (He threatened me with a time out if I lift it)

hondasir1981
01-09-2008, 05:19 AM
My family owns a honda dealership, and I put a 2" Truxxx lift kit on my truck and I love it, and would never go back to stock, it doesn't hurt the ride or handling in any way that I can see. it was easy to install and looks great!!!!

MtnRidge
01-09-2008, 08:59 AM
Hondasir,

What did the dealership say about voiding the warranty, does it? Did you do the install yourself and how easy was it? What are you running for rims and tires?

Thanks,
Dave

zuhl
01-10-2008, 09:20 PM
Many of us have taken it to our dealer after the lift and the have never noticed or never mentioned the lift. I even had a leaky CV boot because I did not support it properly during the instal. They replace it under warranty and never said a peep.

Installing the front is very easy. The rear is a mofo. I don't know about the truxxx instructions, but the Rancho instructions were crap. We had to make it up on our own. The first wheel was a nightmare and the second went okay.

LunchTicket
03-12-2008, 06:30 PM
hello just wanted to pop in and add my .02

i have had my Truxxx kit on for about 8 months and no probs as of yet.


altho i do have a slight steering wheel wobble at 80mph

other than that. no leaky CV, no Broken linkages, no strut prob as of yet.

Powdaze
03-16-2008, 10:36 PM
I think the Truxxx 2" lift looks just about perfect on the RL. Not too big, just right.

LunchTicket
03-17-2008, 01:41 AM
You can disregard the wobble @ 80 mph concern I had a posted 2 3 days ago.

I got my tires balanced at the Honda Dealer this Saturday and the adviser told me, I had sticky weights running along half the Rim!!!

and when his Techs ran it with the org weights on it

2.25oz inner
3.00oz outer

whatever that mean but he said it was ridiculous what the last guy did...

So, took her out for a spin ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and No wobble got her to 89 before i let Her coast.

im now 100% happy :D