The Nissan Armada, a full-size SUV known for its ruggedness and spacious interior, becomes even more capable and visually striking with a custom lift kit. This modification transforms the Armada from a comfortable family hauler into a commanding presence ready to tackle any terrain. This in-depth guide explores everything you need to know about custom lifted Nissan Armadas, covering the benefits, considerations, and the process involved in creating your dream off-road machine.
Why Lift Your Nissan Armada?
Lifting your Nissan Armada offers a multitude of advantages, transforming its capabilities and aesthetics:
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Increased Ground Clearance: This is the primary benefit. A lifted Armada can navigate obstacles, rough terrain, and deep snow with ease that the stock vehicle simply can't match. This added clearance protects the undercarriage from damage on uneven surfaces.
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Improved Approach and Departure Angles: A lift kit significantly increases the approach and departure angles, allowing for steeper inclines and descents without scraping the bumper or underbody. This is crucial for off-roading.
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Enhanced Off-Road Capability: Combined with larger tires, a lifted Armada handles trails and challenging terrain with confidence. Its improved ground clearance and angles allow it to conquer obstacles that would stop a stock Armada.
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Aggressive Aesthetics: Let's face it, a lifted Armada just looks impressive. The increased height and larger tires give it a commanding, powerful stance that turns heads.
Choosing the Right Lift Kit: A Deep Dive
Selecting the right lift kit is crucial. Several factors influence your decision:
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Lift Height: Lift kits range from modest 2-inch lifts to substantial 6-inch or even greater lifts. Higher lifts offer more ground clearance but can affect handling and potentially require additional modifications (like longer driveshafts). A 2-3 inch lift is a great balance of capability and practicality for many Armada owners.
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Suspension Type: There are various types of lift kits available:
- Body Lifts: These lift the body of the Armada relative to the frame, providing ground clearance without affecting suspension geometry as drastically. They are generally less expensive but offer less improvement in articulation.
- Suspension Lifts: These lift the entire suspension, providing better articulation and improved off-road performance. They are more complex and expensive to install but are generally preferred by serious off-road enthusiasts. These can be coilover lifts, which replace the stock struts and coils, or spacer lifts, which add height to existing components. Coilover lifts offer the most adjustability and performance gains.
- Leveling Kits: These kits only lift the front of the Armada, evening out the stance if the rear sits lower (often the case when towing). They're a less expensive option for those seeking a subtle lift and improvement in handling.
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Budget: Lift kits vary significantly in price, from a few hundred dollars for simple leveling kits to thousands for high-end suspension lifts with long travel shocks.
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Your Driving Style: Consider how you intend to use your Armada. A daily driver might benefit from a moderate lift, while a dedicated off-road vehicle could justify a more substantial lift.
Example: Rough Country vs. ICON Vehicle Dynamics
Rough Country offers budget-friendly lift kits, suitable for those seeking a moderate lift and improved ground clearance. ICON Vehicle Dynamics, on the other hand, provides high-performance suspension systems engineered for serious off-road use, significantly impacting cost and capabilities. The choice depends entirely on your needs and budget.
Case Study: A 3-inch Suspension Lift on a 2018 Nissan Armada
A customer, John, wanted to improve his 2018 Armada's off-road capability without sacrificing too much on-road comfort. He opted for a 3-inch suspension lift with upgraded shocks and 33-inch tires. The result was a significant improvement in ground clearance, approach/departure angles, and overall off-road performance. John reported minimal impact on daily driving comfort.
Beyond the Lift: Complementary Modifications
A lift kit is just the beginning. Consider these complementary modifications to maximize your Armada's off-road potential:
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Larger Tires: Larger diameter tires significantly improve traction and ground clearance. You'll likely need wheel spacers or new wheels with a higher offset to accommodate them.
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Aftermarket Wheels: Stronger, more durable wheels designed for off-road use are essential. Consider beadlock wheels for extreme off-road applications.
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Armor: Install skid plates to protect the undercarriage from rocks and other obstacles. Rock sliders can protect the side of the Armada from damage during off-road driving.
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Winch: A winch is a lifesaver for recovery in challenging situations.
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Differential Gears: If you frequently tow heavy loads or plan on aggressive off-road driving, consider re-gearing your differentials for optimal performance.
Important Considerations
- Warranty: Lifting your Armada may void your factory warranty. Check with your dealer before making any modifications.
- Handling: Higher lifts can affect handling, potentially making the Armada less stable at higher speeds.
- Alignment: After a lift is installed, a proper wheel alignment is crucial to ensure safe and optimal handling.
- Professional Installation: Unless you have extensive mechanical experience, it's strongly recommended to have a professional install your lift kit. Improper installation can lead to safety hazards.
Conclusion: Your Custom Lifted Nissan Armada Awaits
A custom-lifted Nissan Armada offers a compelling blend of capability, style, and functionality. By carefully considering the different lift kit options, complementary modifications, and potential challenges, you can create a vehicle perfectly tailored to your needs and driving style. Remember to prioritize safety and professional installation to ensure a rewarding and enjoyable off-road experience.