Mitsubishi Lancer Lift Kit: Ipse Options & Guide

by Alex Braham 49 views

Hey there, Lancer enthusiasts! Are you looking to give your Mitsubishi Lancer a bit more ground clearance and a bolder stance? You've probably been digging around for lift kit options, and the name Ipse might have popped up. Let's dive into the world of Mitsubishi Lancer lift kits, focusing on what Ipse offers and how to navigate your options.

Understanding Lift Kits for Your Mitsubishi Lancer

When we talk about lift kits, we're essentially discussing modifications designed to raise the body of your vehicle higher off the ground. Now, why would you want to do this to a Lancer, which is typically a sleek, street-oriented car? Well, there are several reasons!

  • Enhanced Ground Clearance: A lift kit provides increased ground clearance, enabling you to tackle uneven terrain, navigate snow, or handle rough roads with greater ease. This can be especially useful if you live in an area with harsh winters or frequently encounter unpaved surfaces.
  • Aggressive Aesthetics: Many Lancer owners opt for a lift kit simply because they love the way it looks. The lifted stance gives the car a more aggressive, rugged appearance, setting it apart from the crowd.
  • Larger Tire Fitment: Lifting your Lancer can create additional space in the wheel wells, allowing you to install larger, more aggressive tires. This can further enhance the vehicle's off-road capabilities and overall aesthetic appeal.
  • Improved Visibility: With a higher ride height, you'll gain a better vantage point on the road, improving your visibility and potentially enhancing safety.

However, it's important to note that lifting your Lancer can also have some drawbacks. It can affect the car's handling and stability, potentially leading to a less precise and responsive driving experience on paved roads. Additionally, modifications may impact fuel efficiency. Therefore, careful consideration and proper installation are crucial when opting for a lift kit.

Delving into Ipse Lift Kits

Ipse used to be known for producing lift kits that were quite popular, especially for vehicles like the Lancer. These kits typically included strut spacers or coil spring spacers. Strut spacers sit on top of your existing struts, effectively pushing the entire assembly down and lifting the vehicle. Coil spring spacers, on the other hand, are installed between the coil spring and the strut mount, achieving a similar lifting effect.

Quality and Durability: When considering any lift kit, especially from a manufacturer like Ipse (if you can still find their products), pay close attention to the materials used. Look for high-quality steel or aluminum, as these materials will be more resistant to corrosion and wear. The thickness of the spacers is also important, as thicker spacers will generally provide a greater lift.

Installation Considerations: Installing a lift kit can range from a relatively straightforward DIY project to a task that requires professional assistance. If you're comfortable working on cars and have experience with suspension components, you may be able to install the kit yourself. However, if you're not mechanically inclined or lack the necessary tools, it's best to leave the job to a qualified mechanic. Keep in mind that improper installation can lead to safety issues and damage to your vehicle.

Compatibility: Before purchasing any lift kit, make sure it's specifically designed for your Lancer's model year and trim level. Compatibility issues can arise due to variations in suspension designs and other factors. Always double-check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure a proper fit.

Finding Alternatives if Ipse is Unavailable

Okay, here's the deal. Ipse lift kits might be hard to come by these days. The automotive aftermarket is always changing, and sometimes manufacturers shift their focus or stop producing certain products. Don't worry, though! The good news is that there are other options you can explore to lift your Mitsubishi Lancer.

1. Other Lift Kit Manufacturers

Do some digging and see what other companies are currently offering lift kits for the Lancer. Read reviews, compare specs, and make sure the kit is a good fit for your needs and budget. Some popular brands in the suspension and lift kit world include:

  • ReadyLift: Known for their quality and ease of installation.
  • Daystar: Offers a range of lift kits and suspension components.
  • Truxxx: Specializes in leveling and lift kits for various vehicles.

2. Custom Suspension Shops

Consider hitting up a local custom suspension shop. These guys can often fabricate a custom lift solution tailored specifically to your Lancer. This might be a bit more expensive than an off-the-shelf kit, but you'll get a truly unique setup.

3. DIY (Proceed with Caution!)

If you're a seasoned gearhead with fabrication skills, you could potentially create your own lift kit. However, this is definitely not for beginners! Suspension modifications are safety-critical, so you need to know what you're doing.

Important Considerations Before Lifting Your Lancer

Before you pull the trigger on a lift kit, let's cover some important bases. Lifting your Lancer isn't just about bolting on some parts; it's about understanding the potential consequences and making informed decisions.

1. Alignment

After installing a lift kit, your Lancer's alignment will almost certainly be out of whack. This means you'll need to take it to a shop for a professional alignment. Proper alignment is crucial for tire wear, handling, and overall safety.

2. CV Joints

Lifting your Lancer can change the angles of your CV joints (constant velocity joints). In some cases, this can lead to premature wear or failure. Consider whether you need to install extended CV axles or other components to compensate for the increased angles.

3. Brake Lines and ABS Wires

Make sure your brake lines and ABS wires have enough slack to accommodate the increased ride height. You might need to extend them or reroute them to prevent them from being stretched or damaged.

4. Warranty

Keep in mind that modifying your Lancer's suspension could potentially void portions of your factory warranty. Check with your dealer or warranty provider to understand the implications.

5. Local Regulations

Be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding vehicle lift heights. Some areas have restrictions on how high you can lift a vehicle.

Installation Guide: A General Overview

While I can't provide a step-by-step guide specific to every lift kit, here's a general overview of what the installation process typically involves. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your specific kit.

1. Preparation

  • Gather all the necessary tools, including a jack, jack stands, wrenches, sockets, and potentially a spring compressor.
  • Park your Lancer on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
  • Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels.

2. Disassembly

  • Raise the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
  • Remove the wheels.
  • Disconnect any sensors or lines attached to the struts or suspension components.
  • Carefully disassemble the struts, following the manufacturer's instructions.

3. Installation

  • Install the lift kit components, such as strut spacers or coil spring spacers.
  • Reassemble the struts and reinstall them on the vehicle.
  • Reconnect any sensors or lines.

4. Final Steps

  • Install the wheels and tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specification.
  • Lower the vehicle to the ground.
  • Take the Lancer for an alignment.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Lancer

So, you're thinking about lifting your Mitsubishi Lancer? Whether you were hoping to find an Ipse kit or are exploring other options, remember to do your homework, consider the pros and cons, and choose a solution that fits your needs and budget. A lifted Lancer can be a head-turner, but it's important to do it right to ensure safety and performance. Good luck with your project, and happy modding!