1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of the maXpeedingrods 2-inch Front and 2-inch Rear Lift Kit. This kit is designed to increase the ground clearance of your vehicle, allowing for larger tire fitment and improved off-road capability. Adherence to these instructions is crucial for safe and effective performance.
Image 1.1: Visual representation of a vehicle before and after the installation of a 2-inch front and 2-inch rear lift kit, demonstrating increased wheel well clearance.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Installation of this lift kit requires specialized tools and automotive knowledge. Improper installation can lead to serious injury, vehicle damage, or loss of vehicle control. If you are not confident in your mechanical abilities, seek professional installation.
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and gloves.
- Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands on a level surface before beginning any work. Never rely solely on a jack.
- Disconnect the vehicle's battery before starting work to prevent accidental electrical discharge.
- Refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific torque specifications and procedures not covered in this document.
- After installation, a professional wheel alignment is mandatory to ensure proper vehicle handling and tire wear.
3. Compatibility
This maXpeedingrods lift kit is compatible with the following vehicles:
- Jeep Compass MK (2007-2017)
- Jeep Patriot MK (2007-2017)
Important Note: This kit is NOT compatible with FD2 models or vehicles equipped with a one-piece axle type.
Image 3.1: A table detailing the compatible Jeep models (Compass MK, Patriot MK) and years (2007-2017), with a note about exclusions for FD2 and one-piece axle types.
4. Package Contents
Verify that all components listed below are present and undamaged before beginning installation. If any parts are missing or damaged, contact maXpeedingrods customer support immediately.
- 2 x Front Lift Spacers
- 2 x Rear Lift Spacers
- 2 x Adjustable Rear Trailing Arms (Alignment Control Arms)
- 2 x Sway Bar Relocation Brackets
- 4 x Camber Bolts
- All necessary installation hardware (nuts, bolts, washers)
Image 4.1: An overhead view of all components included in the lift kit package, clearly showing the front spacers, rear spacers, adjustable rear trailing arms, sway bar relocation brackets, camber bolts, and various hardware.
5. Setup and Installation
The following steps outline the general procedure for installing the lift kit. Specific vehicle disassembly and reassembly steps should be referenced from your vehicle's factory service manual.
5.1. Pre-Installation Preparation
- Park the vehicle on a flat, level surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Chock the rear wheels if working on the front, or front wheels if working on the rear.
- Loosen the lug nuts on all wheels.
- Lift the vehicle using a floor jack and support it securely with jack stands at appropriate frame points.
- Remove the wheels.
5.2. Front Lift Spacer Installation
- Carefully disconnect the necessary suspension components to allow for strut removal (e.g., sway bar end links, brake line brackets, ABS sensor wires).
- Remove the upper strut mounting nuts and the lower strut bolt.
- Remove the entire strut assembly from the vehicle.
- Install the front lift spacer onto the top of the strut assembly, aligning the bolt holes. Secure with provided hardware.
- Reinstall the strut assembly into the vehicle, securing the upper mounting nuts and lower strut bolt. Ensure all components are properly aligned.
- Reconnect all previously disconnected suspension components, brake lines, and sensor wires.
5.3. Rear Lift Spacer, Control Arm, and Sway Bar Bracket Installation
- Support the rear axle with a jack.
- Disconnect the rear shock absorbers at their lower mounts.
- Carefully lower the axle to allow for spring removal.
- Remove the rear coil springs.
- Install the rear lift spacer on top of the coil spring perch on the vehicle frame.
- Reinstall the coil springs onto the spacers.
- Install the sway bar relocation brackets to adjust the sway bar geometry.
- Remove the factory rear trailing arms.
- Install the new adjustable rear trailing arms. Note: Ensure the bushings fit correctly and are not too narrow, as improper fitment can lead to alignment issues and unsafe driving conditions. Adjust the length of the trailing arms as needed to achieve proper alignment.
- Reattach the lower shock mounts.
- Install the camber bolts in the appropriate locations as per your vehicle's service manual to allow for camber adjustment.
Image 5.1: A technical diagram illustrating how the actual lift height achieved can be greater than the physical thickness of the spacer due to the vehicle's suspension geometry and leverage points.
5.4. Post-Installation
- Reinstall all wheels and torque lug nuts to factory specifications.
- Lower the vehicle to the ground.
- Bounce the vehicle several times to settle the suspension.
- Re-torque all bolts and nuts installed during the lift kit procedure to factory specifications.
- Immediately schedule a professional wheel alignment. This is critical for vehicle safety, handling, and tire longevity. Inform the alignment technician that a lift kit has been installed.
6. Operating Considerations
After installing the lift kit, the vehicle's center of gravity will be higher. This may affect handling characteristics, especially during cornering and emergency maneuvers. Drive cautiously until you become accustomed to the vehicle's new dynamics. Be aware of increased vehicle height when entering garages, car washes, or areas with low overhead clearance.
7. Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance are essential for the longevity and safety of your lift kit components.
- Initial Check (500 miles): After approximately 500 miles of driving, re-check the torque on all bolts and nuts installed with the lift kit.
- Routine Inspection: Periodically inspect all lift kit components for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Check for loose fasteners, cracked bushings, or bent components.
- Alignment: Have your wheel alignment checked annually or after any significant off-road use.
8. Troubleshooting
If you experience any issues after installation, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Poor handling, vehicle wandering, or uneven tire wear | Incorrect wheel alignment; loose suspension components; improper trailing arm bushing fitment. | Obtain a professional wheel alignment. Check all fasteners for proper torque. Inspect trailing arm bushings for correct fitment and replace if necessary. |
| Clunking or rattling noises | Loose hardware; components contacting other parts of the vehicle. | Inspect all installed components and hardware for proper torque. Ensure adequate clearance between all suspension parts. |
| Uneven lift height | Improper spacer installation; factory suspension variations. | Verify correct installation of all spacers. Measure from the ground to the fender on all four corners to identify discrepancies. |
9. Specifications
- Lift Height: Approximately 2 inches front, 2 inches rear
- Material: High-strength carbon steel
- Finish: Powder-coated for anti-corrosion
- Product Dimensions: 14.53 x 10.39 x 7.01 inches (packaging)
- Item Weight: 18.7 pounds
- Manufacturer Part Number: PW66ZT
Image 9.1: An image highlighting the material specifications of the lift kit components, including high-strength carbon steel construction, powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance, and precision manufacturing processes.
10. Warranty and Support
maXpeedingrods offers lifetime technical support and a 1-year limited warranty for quality-related issues from the date of purchase. For technical assistance, warranty claims, or any questions regarding your product, please contact maXpeedingrods customer support.
Contact Information: Refer to your purchase documentation or the official maXpeedingrods website for the most current customer support contact details.