Gem Car Lift Kit: Everything You Need to Know

The Gem car is a popular choice for people who want a small, affordable, and fun vehicle. However, one of the downsides of the Gem car is that it has a low ground clearance. This can be a problem if you live in an area with rough terrain, or if you just want to give your Gem car a more rugged look.

A Gem Car Lift Kit is a great way to increase your Gem car’s ground clearance and improve its off-road capabilities. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Gem car lift kits, including the benefits, types of kits available, and installation tips.

What is a Gem Car Lift Kit?

A Gem car lift kit is a set of components that raises the suspension of your Gem car. This increases the ground clearance, allowing you to drive over obstacles that you couldn’t before. Lift kits are available for all Gem car models, including the e2, e4, and e6.

Benefits of a Gem Car Lift Kit

There are many benefits to installing a Gem car lift kit. Here are a few of the most notable:

• Increased Ground Clearance: The most obvious benefit of a lift kit is increased ground clearance. This allows you to drive over rough terrain, obstacles, and even snow without scraping the bottom of your car.
• Improved Off-Road Capabilities: A lift kit can significantly improve your Gem car’s off-road capabilities. This is especially helpful if you live in an area with unpaved roads or if you enjoy off-roading.
• Enhanced Appearance: A lift kit can also give your Gem car a more rugged and aggressive appearance. This can be a desirable feature for some drivers.
• Better Visibility: A higher ride height also provides better visibility, allowing you to see over obstacles and traffic more easily.

Types of Gem Car Lift Kits

There are two main types of Gem car lift kits:

1. Spacer Kits: Spacer kits are the simplest type of lift kit. They involve installing spacers between the suspension components to increase the ride height. Spacer kits are typically less expensive than other types of lift kits, and they are relatively easy to install.

2. Coil Spring Kits: Coil spring kits replace the factory coil springs with taller ones. This provides a more substantial lift than spacer kits, and it can also improve the ride quality of your Gem car. Coil spring kits are typically more expensive than spacer kits, but they offer a more significant upgrade.

Choosing the Right Gem Car Lift Kit

Choosing the right Gem car lift kit depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:

• Lift Height: How much lift do you need? 2-3 inches of lift is typically enough for most applications, but you can find kits that offer up to 6 inches of lift.
• Budget: Lift kits vary in price, so consider your budget and how much you’re willing to spend.
• Ride Quality: Some lift kits can affect the ride quality of your Gem car, making it feel harsher. If ride quality is important to you, consider a kit that is designed to maintain a comfortable ride.
• Installation: How comfortable are you with installing a lift kit yourself? If you’re not mechanically inclined, you may want to have a professional install the kit.

Installing a Gem Car Lift Kit

Installing a Gem car lift kit is relatively straightforward, but it does require some mechanical skills. Here are the basic steps involved:

1. Gather Your Tools and Supplies: You’ll need a jack, jack stands, wrenches, sockets, and a torque wrench.
2. Lift and Support Your Gem Car: Safely lift your Gem car using a jack and support it with jack stands.
3. Remove the Original Suspension Components: Remove the factory suspension components, including the coil springs, shock absorbers, and control arms.
4. Install the Lift Kit Components: Install the lift kit components according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Reassemble the Suspension System: Reassemble the suspension system, making sure to tighten all bolts and nuts to the specified torque.
6. Lower Your Gem Car: Lower your Gem car and remove the jack stands.

Important Note: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific lift kit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it legal to install a lift kit on my Gem car?

The legality of installing a lift kit on a Gem car varies depending on your location. Check with your local authorities to ensure that the lift kit you choose is legal in your area.

2. What is the best lift kit for a Gem car?

The best lift kit for your Gem car depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as lift height, budget, and ride quality.

3. How much does a Gem car lift kit cost?

Gem car lift kits can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars, depending on the type of kit and the features included.

4. Can I install a lift kit on my own?

Installing a lift kit on a Gem car is relatively straightforward, but it does require some mechanical skills. If you’re not comfortable with mechanical work, it’s best to have a professional install the kit.

5. Can I use a lift kit to make my Gem car street legal?

No, a lift kit alone will not make your Gem car street legal. You will need to comply with all local and state regulations regarding vehicle modifications.

Conclusion

Installing a Gem car lift kit is a great way to improve your Gem car’s ground clearance, off-road capabilities, and overall appearance. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully install a lift kit and enjoy all the benefits it offers.

Remember to consult the manufacturer’s instructions and check with your local authorities to ensure that the lift kit you choose is legal in your area. If you have any questions or need assistance with the installation process, you can contact a qualified mechanic or visit a reputable Gem car repair shop.