By Timothy Albrite
Kenya’s roads can be a tale of two extremes: smooth highways and rugged terrain. The latter, punctuated by potholes and unforgiving speed bumps, can be a nightmare for low-clearance vehicles. If you’re tired of scraping your car’s underbelly on every pothole or speed bump, you’re not alone.
Let’s explore ways to give your ride a much-needed lift without turning it into a monster truck;
Understanding the Challenge
First things first: let’s be realistic. You’re not transforming a sedan into a land cruiser. Small increments can make a big difference. The goal is to enhance your car’s ability to handle notorious roads. As Gavin Bennet once stated, you are not trying to change a hippo into a giraffe.
- Higher Profile Tyres: Upsizing your tires is a relatively simple and cost-effective way to gain extra ground clearance. Opting for tires with a higher profile will increase the tire’s height, increasing the vehicle’s ride height.
Ensure sufficient space within the wheel arches to accommodate the larger tire, especially at the front when the steering wheel is on full lock.
Excessively large tires can negatively impact steering, handling, and fuel efficiency. As a guide, most manufacturers allow for tyre/rim size adjustment to modify a vehicle. These configurations are on the owner’s manual and also in many cars written on the door panel. The benefit is that it does not void your insurance if done according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Spring Replacement or Modification: Replacing or modifying your car’s springs is a more involved process that yields significant results. Longer, stiffer springs can elevate your vehicle noticeably. However, spring changes can dramatically alter a car’s handling characteristics. Stiffer springs often improve body control but can sacrifice ride comfort. Conversely, softer springs enhance comfort but might lead to increased body roll. It’s essential to find the right balance. Consider progressive spring rates, which offer a combination of comfort and control.
3. Height Spacers: Height spacers are extensions that are put into the suspension component of a vehicle to raise its height. They are the most popular since they are cheap and easy to install.
If you wish to use height spacers, be sure they’re high-quality and from a trustworthy manufacturer. Some Handcrafted aluminum spacers marketed in Kenya may pose a serious safety risk and should be avoided.
Height spacers could be a risky one in terms of insurance compensation and we recommend that you have your car get a pre-insurance valuation so that the valuation report captures that.
4. Wheel Spacers or Offset Rims: These can widen your car’s track and, to some extent, increase ground clearance. However, this is primarily for aesthetics and handling, not necessarily height. Ensure there’s enough space to avoid tyre rub. Wheel spacers or offset rims can widen your car’s track, indirectly increasing ground clearance. However, this method is primarily aesthetic and handling-oriented rather than a height-boosting solution. Ensure there’s ample clearance to prevent tyre rub. A common misconception is that aggressive offset rims will dramatically increase ground clearance. While they can improve a car’s stance, the height gain is usually minimal.
Beyond the Basics: Other Considerations
- Body Lifts: This involves raising the body of the car relative to the chassis. While it can provide substantial ground clearance, it’s a complex and costly procedure that often requires extensive modifications.
- Suspension Kits: Some aftermarket suspension kits offer a balance of height and performance. These kits typically include new springs, shocks, and possibly other components. However, they can be expensive and may require professional installation.
- Underbody Protection: Regardless of your chosen method, protecting your car’s undercarriage is essential. Skid plates can safeguard vital components from damage caused by rocks, debris, and rough terrain.
Safety First, Always
Modifying your car’s suspension or geometry can affect its handling, braking, and stability. It’s crucial to have the work done by qualified professionals and to thoroughly test the vehicle after modifications. Ensure that all components, including brakes, steering, and alignment, are in optimal condition.
Legal and Insurance Implications
Modifying your car might have legal and insurance consequences. Check local regulations regarding tyre size, wheel modifications, and overall vehicle dimensions. Inform your insurance provider of any changes made to your car, as it might affect your coverage.
Elevating your car’s ground clearance can significantly improve your driving experience on Kenya’s challenging roads. However, it’s essential to approach this project with careful planning and consideration. By understanding the various methods, their pros and cons, and potential safety implications, you can make informed decisions to enhance your vehicle without compromising safety or performance.