Kei trucks have become incredibly popular worldwide, thanks to their compact size, versatility, and surprisingly rugged capability. Whether you’re using your Japanese mini truck for work, off-road adventures, or urban utility, one of the most transformative upgrades you can make is installing a lift kit. But with so many options and details to consider, understanding what a Kei truck lift kit entails is crucial before diving in. This guide covers everything you need to know—from the types of lift kits available to installation tips and key benefits.
What Is a Kei Truck Lift Kit?
A lift kit is a set of components designed to raise the ride height of your Kei truck. By increasing ground clearance, lift kits improve your truck’s ability to handle rough terrain, fit larger tires, and carry heavier loads without bottoming out. They typically include parts like spacers, coil springs, shocks, lift blocks, U-bolts, and sometimes camber correction hardware.
Why Lift Your Kei Truck?
Here are the main reasons why lifting your Kei truck makes sense:
Better Off-Road Capability: More clearance means you can tackle rocky, muddy, or uneven trails without scraping your undercarriage.
Larger Tire Fitment: Bigger tires increase traction and improve your truck’s ability to handle different terrains.
Improved Load Carrying: Upgraded suspension components often come with stronger springs and shocks to support heavier payloads.
Enhanced Appearance: A lifted Kei truck has a more aggressive stance that turns heads.
Increased Utility: Higher clearance helps when driving on farms, construction sites, or rural roads.
Types of Kei Truck Lift Kits
1. Spacer Lift Kits
The most common and budget-friendly option. These kits use strut spacers in the front and lift blocks in the rear to raise the vehicle by 1–3 inches. They’re easy to install but don’t improve suspension performance.
2. Coil Spring Upgrades
Replacing factory coil springs with heavy-duty or taller springs increases ride height and improves load capacity. Often paired with upgraded shocks for better ride quality.
3. Leaf Spring Add-Ons
Many Kei trucks have leaf springs in the rear. Add-a-leaf kits or upgraded leaf packs improve rear suspension stiffness and lift, ideal for heavy hauling.
4. Full Suspension Lift Kits
These kits replace springs, shocks, and sometimes other components for the best performance on and off-road. They are more expensive but offer improved handling and durability.
How Much Lift Should You Get?
Most Kei truck owners opt for a 2 to 3-inch lift. This height strikes a balance between improved clearance and maintaining factory driveline geometry, steering, and brake line length. Lifts higher than 3 inches may require additional modifications like extended brake lines, camber kits, or driveshaft adjustments.
Installation Overview
Installing a lift kit can be a weekend DIY project if you have basic mechanical skills and tools:
Front Lift: Usually involves removing the struts and installing spacers or swapping springs.
Rear Lift: Often requires unbolting the leaf springs or axle U-bolts to add lift blocks or replace leaf springs.
Always use jack stands and follow safety procedures.
Professional alignment after installation is highly recommended.
Things to Watch Out For
Alignment: Lifting affects suspension geometry. Without proper alignment, you’ll experience uneven tire wear and poor handling.
Brake Lines: Higher lifts may stretch or pinch brake lines, so extensions might be needed.
Steering Components: Check for clearance around tie rods and steering arms.
Ride Quality: Spacer lifts don’t improve ride quality; full suspension kits are better if you want comfort and control.
Recommended Lift Kit Brands for Kei Trucks
TeraFlex
JKS Manufacturing
Skyjacker
Old Man Emu (OME)
Kei Truck specific brands from Japan (check local importers)
Final Thoughts
Lifting your Kei truck is one of the most effective ways to boost its capability, utility, and style. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer or a hardworking pro, the right lift kit can transform your mini truck into a tougher, more versatile machine. Remember to choose a lift height that suits your needs, prioritize quality parts, and don’t skip alignment and safety checks.
