New Suspension

[Sorceress]

It has been a very long time posting on the forum. I presently have a 2005 Precedent that needs a complete rebuild on the front suspension. What better timing to go lift. I am open to suggestions for the height along with what size tire and rims that would compliment the increased height.
Thanks

[Wakko47]

Hi Sorceress, do you know what your ultimate goal is? Neighborhood cruiser? Any kids or older folks involved that may have a hard time with 6" higher access? I did a 4" Jakes and a 4" All Sport on two different carts. I just completed my wife's cart this morning (with the All Sport) and I still don't have the bugs worked out. I'm running 22" tall tires and there's some slight rubbing, but it may be overpressure of the tire. The kit is very well made, but has a three month lead time. The Jake's kit was also very well made, and I wouldn't hesitate to use it again. Are you going to do the work yourself or have a shop do it?

[Sorceress]

I just use it to do yard work and bring garbage up the hill to mour drop off point. No more kids or elders.

[Wakko47]

You may prefer a 3" lift with 20" tires. Some 4" lifts will accommodate 22" tires, but you'd want to verify with the manufacturer before locking down a tire/rim order. My limited experience is with a Jake's kit and an All Sport kit, and they're both of good quality. All Sport is US made, but has a two to three month lead time.

The front end will be completely replaced by either of these kits. It would be the perfect time to replace worn steering components if needed (they're not expensive). The rear end lift doesn't replace any wear parts, but when you have it apart it's easy to replace the leaf spring bushings (also inexpensive) and if you need more oomph in the suspension, the leaf springs themselves. Don't automatically add HD springs if they're not needed, or ride quality will suffer.

Wheel and tire selection is also important. Smaller diameter wheels will allow larger sidewall tires, which give you a better ride and potentially better traction. Note that lift kits may require an offset wheel to go with it.

Hope this helps.