I lifted the element and took it to the beach
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- Опубліковано 28 лис 2024
- So I decided to life the element, and it was the best decision I've made second only to buying it.
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How I got my element : • I bought the cheapest ...
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Honda really designed this well- the Element still looks so fresh. It's aging so well.
Just put the aerogenics 3" front 2.5" rear with new crv rear struts for an extra .75" on my buddys mint 03. it's definitely time consuming and requires alot of finagling to get everything lined up, but not as bad as doing injectors on a V8 diesel. It took about 20 hours total but it looks fantastic after the lift, even with the small tires on it still. I would recommend the same kit (3/2.5) with the crv rear struts for a perfectly level 3"+ lift. I'm pretty sure it's closer to 4" considering how low it was before.
I'm considering purchasing an 03 with 170k miles on it for 4500. Pretty excited.
Best of luck, although 03 for 4500 is quite a lot!
@@HMNLT Low supply, insanely high demand especially within a 200 mile radius of Nashville, TN. It's like winning the lottery to get a high mileage Element before someone else grabs it around here, esp the AWD. They are priced in the $7-15K range around here. I just bought a sunset orange pearl 2004 AWD Element with 170K miles for $7800. They wanted $9500 for it!! I absolutely LOVE it more than any brand new car I've ever had. The BAT.com auto auction just sold a 2008 Green Element AWD with manual transmission and only 53K miles for 30 GRAND!!! These things are in extremely high demand because they are made so well and not like all the soul less cookie cutter CVT crap out there with "1.6 L turbo" jokes for engines. The only comparable things nowadays are insanely expensive with a waiting list, such as the new Bronco, the Range Rover Defender, etc. Honda Element was way ahead of it's time. The only things preventing these from being the perfect vehicle is the stupid "tank guard" thing that hangs down too far and the under powered (but reliable) engine.
Interesting. I will be following this and subscribing.
Just to add some comments. some 35 or so years ago, I was working with civil engineering firms and while the land surveyors were given 4WD Suburbans, the Senior Engineers got to ride around in full-sized 4WD SUV's ('cause they had to often carry clients) field engineers and inspectors got old, high mileage FWD station wagons and sedans to get to construction projects. These weren't projects in the city where you drove up, popped out of your car and walked up a sidewalk to the construction site, these were projects where you drove to the nearest road, parked on the shoulder and walked 1/4. 1/2 mile or miles into the site. If you were lucky, you got a ride with one of the construction crews, but then you had to get back out.
What was determined (not exclusively by me is) that if you wanted to get to your projects in a day, you drove your company car. That old high mileage FWD stock sedan or station wagon. And drove on some pretty insane construction roads. You drove through mud, and puddles and clay beds and whatever was in the way. It was crazy.
There were multiple 'incidents' where a developer would arrange a meeting on-site at the very back of a project and I had to be there. I would try to get to the site before the developer/clint and speak to the contractor or foreman, and the developer would drive up in an expensive four-wheel-drive vehicle. He would see me, knowing what I drove and ask if the construction company had brought me in - to which I gestured to my clapped out, Chevy Cavalier (terrible vehicle, BTW), Olds Ciera Wagon (with fake woodgrain, too) and show that I had driven to the site. They were amazed.
I was asked in a meeting one time how in the world did we get out there to those terrible sites with such incapable cars. One of the senior partners answered for us (as he had asked long before) "Never, ever, EVER, slow down"
Now this was probably true, but remember we were driving company vehicles, and we weren't paying to tow these cars out (there was some question in our minds if it would be worth it) and would never consider following the advice with my personal vehicle. I only write this because vehicles such as FWD and especially 4WD drives such as the Honda Element is a far more capable vehicle than people think it is.
BTW, this was the pre-cell phone era, and we all carried at least one beeper and so had to extricate ourselves from off-road areas to go and make calls via payphones. Yes, we got rolls of dimes and later quarters to feed the payphones, so this was years, and years ago.
Oh, I got regularly promoted, moved on to other jobs, had all sorts of fully-capable full-sized four-wheel-drive trucks as company vehicles, have had a whole series of personal 4WD and AWD drive vehicles, from Ford Explorers, Cherokees (the old full-sized one) to Grand Cherokees, Volvo X-Country, and VW Toureg, and the Honda Element EX 4WD suits me just fine. As long as I'm not going 'mudbogging' I think I'll be Ok.
Good video.
This was a good read charles, and I can attest that when offroading in a 2WD, momentum is your biggest ally, let off the gas and get stuck. Thank you for the sub and keep a look out for the next video!
I've thought about adding a lift. I like the lift you installed. It's not too high and looks great. My concerns are the affects it will have on the gas mileage and additional wear and tear it adds to engine and transmision.
I found the hardest part of installing the lift was the fronts, because I have poly bushings it was difficult pushing the control arm down low enough to get the strut and knuckle to meet up. I 100% agree with you, its how it should have came from the factory.
This lift install is not for the faint of heart, but totally worth the upgrade
Good stuff 👍👍, but you lost me at "... not only Jeeps can wheel, but these Elements can handle it just as well". Quite the stretch. I read and hear from so many people who develop expectations of a lifted Element that will never be met.
I own a Jeep and 3 Elements. Elements can NOT and NEVER WILL be comparable to a "Jeep". When you talk about a Jeep in this vein, you/we are talking about the typical solid axle trail capable Jeep like a Wrangler or Cherokee.
I too will be installing a lift on one of my Elements, but I am under NO DILUSION that it will be even 10% of the capability that ANY real stock off-road truck has. I just want the extra ground clearance and larger tires like you mentioned - Your comment about raising for more ground clearance and space for bigger and more capable off-road style tires is right on the money.
Love Elements AND Jeeps.
Yes a pain in the butt to install for sure... I did mine in my driveway a Scizor jack or spring compressor or both are a must have if you're doing it in you're DW. not the easiest not the hardest but doable. Enjoyed the video thanks
Brad H thanks for the comment!
Thanks brad. It was a pain for sure, but the look is worth it!
3:51 idk why I find this little water sound so hilarious
awesome vid btw, I'm getting my own element soooon
Lol, This area gets like this when it rains. The sand underneath the water can get really wet and act like quicksand so I had to tread lightly
So glad I found this channel, thank you for being a good person and not the rest of youtube
Thank you for the kind words Denis! Authenticity is my goal!
You ever thought of trying eflexfuel to save you gas, increase hp and torque? I think it’ll help with the acceleration.
wow, a running Element for a grant .nice!
correction; i just watched your auction vid....bt still good deal.
How much did it cost for this if I didn’t see it sorry but i have the same exact year and color and I love your setup
I like your element, but my first thoughts were that lifting it would just make its aerodynamics worse. Not sure how windy it is in New York, never had the pleasure of going...but here in southern California it can get decently windy and on "Santa Ana Wind" days, i do not dare to go past 65 due to feeling pushed by the winds. Honestly, its my only complaint about the car. I have an 03, so yours might have some improvements body wise...and trust me, I already did a lot of restoring (struts, ball joints, sway bars, motor mounts, etc) not to be negative, I wish I had an AWD version!
I totally understand. Any type of crosswind and this thing gets taken for a ride. Its comparable to a styrofoam cooler, very big, but super light.
how would this do in the BAJA 500-1000??
Ok, I asked my local garage guy about lifting an element and my pilot and he advised against it saying the bushings go and it ruins the car. I don't believe him because his example was a jeep cherokee. How has your element held up w the lift?
The element is still on the road with the new buyer in PA. Hes loving it and no issues. As long as you dont go too high with the lift, the angles on the sway bar and suspension arms wont cause any issues
Looks boss, would make a nice mini overlander
It would be ideal for that, that was my goal but was unable to get a sponsorship and do not have the carpentry skills!
How much does it cost to have it lifted professionally and which state/area did you have it done? Are you concerned that by modifying this substantially, you would narrow the pool of buyers in the future when it come time for you to sell down the line?
You running wheel spacers too?
Love that element 👌
How is the E holding up a few months later? I plan on getting one soon, currently looking at one with 166k on it.
No issues, been pretty good.
I have an ‘05 with 200K+ miles. Only required expected maintenance and replacement parts. Pretty sure I’ve given it more attention than any of the previous owners.
Thanks for referral to Aerogenics! I was thinking about buying from them. Quick question: do you need to do a subframe drop with the 2" lift? Seems like people complain about cv axle issues with a lift more than 2", but haven't heard much 2" and under.
Under 2" is not needed but advised. 2" or above is mandatory. Your tie rod ends will rub on the frame of the car without it and your axles will be at a severe angle.
@@HMNLT Thanks for the video. I've been wanting to lift my Element for years, but saw in most lift install videos that you have to cut the pinch welded lip off the frame (over which the tie-rods run on either side) to accommodate the strut's entire length of travel so that the tie-rod doesn't hit the frame should a wheel fully extend. Admittedly that's for a 2" or greater front spacer, not total lift. Are you saying that yours didn't need to be cut off with their kit? I'd really like to lift my E, but I don't think I could bring myself to cut the frame to achieve it -- or just ignore the fact that if I hit a really big hole there's a possibility that I may bend or lose a tie-rod. Do you know what your tie-rod/frame clearance is when the strut is fully extended?
@@aaronestep7920 solid question. Fully extended the tie rod ends rub on the pinch weld. Light off-roading wont ever expose you to having to worry about that. If you’re rocking rock crawling, you shouldnt be doing it in an E.
@@HMNLT Thanks for the info. I was having a hard time getting a straight answer from Aerogenics on it. They make a solid product based specs and finish, from what I’ve seen. I’m sure there are plenty of people out there willing to use it. Based on the tie-rod situation, I don’t think I’m one of them. I wouldn’t ever expect my Element to do rock crawling or anything near it. I’ve taken chances on low risk mods before and I always seem to end up in a bad luck situation where the worst happens. I’d probably come across a road hazard at night that would do the trick for my tie-rods. My 04 E was my first car and it still runs and looks like new. Where I am in my ownership with it now, I’m just not willing take chances or do any frame mods.
Please tell me which is the widest all-terrain tire that can be put on the element?
So with these I needed a 1" spacer. I suppose if you have enough spacers you can go as wide as you want?
I put 235/65/16 on my non-lifted Element. Zero rubbing, same diameter so no speedo change, wider for better handling and little impact on mpg. Although I agree with you Honda should have had more clearance stock I think the 65's are a better fit than the 70's for the reasons I mentioned. Your E looks great and you got me thinking about a lift for my 2010. Thanks
Did you end up lifting your E? I have the 2010 as well
@@kimbo9643 Decided not to. The 235's fit perfect and I didn't want to mess with the improved handling by lifting it.
@@oldmillrd8153 oh nice. thank you for replying
for your wheels did you just take out the hub caps?
Yes, I removed the hub caps/wheel covers and spray painted the wheels flat black and then a satin clear coat.
really appreciate these videos! hoping to pickup an element this summer, convert it, and live in it while i go to school. fingers crossed
That's awesome man. You'll save so much money living out of your element. Plus if you make it pretty stealthy no one will even notice you are living in it which is perfect to be able to park and sleep anywhere.
So clearance on my 07 Element is 6.9”, yours now is 8.9”?....Are you worried that tire is rubbing against the frame.? Your Element looks cool with the new look..Best wishes Jake 07 Element, I have 137k on mine, love it....
Jake Weisenberg hey jake, thanks for the comment. It depends on where youre measuring the GC from. As far as rubbing that only happens on full lock and it rubs against the plastic mud cover under the fender, otherwise no issues whatsoever!
Nice build.
What was the cost of the kit + tires?
It would run you approx $800ish for the kit and tires.
Does the tires grind against the front fender when you are making a U turn?
Hey, very cool videos! Love your enthusiasm about your Element too. I got mine (2003 model) in 2009 with 54k miles and at 219k now. I don't plan on giving up on it anytime soon. I live in Tahoe and there's usually lots of snow and I like to take it places where I'd need more ground clearance. Looks like you just got the lift and engine + subframe drop. Aerogenics has the complete package with the camber arms. It's an extra $150...do you feel its necessary for any reason? Not completely sure what its for but seems recommended. Thank you sir
Highly recommend the engine and subframe drop kit. I installed the lift first and when installing the drop kit, could see the added stress on the axles and tie rods. I advise against lifting without the subframe kit. If you use my code 'HMNLT' you will receive a discount.
Why do you need an engine drop?
Good stuff! Great to see another fellow Element owner (especially a lifted one) on here! Just subscribed. Keep it up, dude!
In Our Element ADVNTRS thanks for the sub! Definitely enjoying element ownership a lot more since lifting this. Returned the favor, will be checking out your videos!
Where's the follow-ups to this? Overlander build!
Project took a turn and I had to part ways with the element. A new one will be coming in the future
@HNMLT,
Good looking #Element.
I’m curious to know if you’ve had any excessive or noticeable tire wear?
I’ve seen/heard of lifts being aggressive on tread wear and wanted to get an idea of what it might be like.
Tire wear has been good after 5k miles, I had the alignment done immediately after lifting and the only adjustment was on the driver side tierod
Hey can you tell me what did you purchase from Aerogenics to have your lift? Aside from the drop kit?
I bought 2” front 1.5” rear lift kit, level 2 subframe and engine drop kit
hey what are the size of does tires, they look great on the element,.. i have a 4wd 03,..cheers
235/70/16 Falken Wildpeak AT3/w
Great video sir. Please continue to make more content
What has your experience been in deep sand? Any plan to install a Quick Spool kit for the rear differential?
Had some minor experience in deep sand, the trouble was car was bottoming out, but plowing through got me through it.
@@HMNLT Thanks, I'm leaving for a beach camping adventure with pretty deep sand Thursday. I have a 5k winch that I can hook to my rear receiver maybe I should pack that just in case LOL!
Johnny Moran wouldnt hurt! Lol
@@HMNLT Well, I got back today, the Element did very well in some deep sand. Could use more ground clearance, and I could mechanically lock the rear and it'd be better,, but it was good enough for my adventure. I had brand new regular tires at 15 psi, and was towing a small trailer with a Honda 400ex on it. Without the trailer it did much better of course. Had plenty of room to sleep in too with the rear seats removed and the front seats pushed all the way forward. I wish you could open the rear hatch from the inside. All in all , I was very happy with its capabilities. You just have to respect it's limits.
Johnny Moran +1 on opening the rear from the inside. There are some mods you can do to add a release on the inside but its pretty involved and I CBA. Glad you had a good trip! Post some photos on the Honda Element Owners group page
Smith Point Park Beach? Very nice presentation!
CRS secret spot ;) but thank you!
Just ordered the same set up for myself. Can't wait till it comes in. Thanks for the discount code! Btw, did you need the camber kits or is it fine without it?
No camber kits needed, but definitely need the level 2 drop kit. Do not install it without it. And thanks for using the code!
@@HMNLT Thank you sir! Hope the camper set up is going well.
@@HMNLT where's the video of the install?
How’s the lifted element holding up, any issues and what was the total parts used for the build?
Hey Rob, so the lift was a deal from Aerogenics, and the install was done myself. total cost on parts and labor was $0
@@HMNLT I have a Element too, and I'm thinking of doing the 2 inch lift, but hows the ride?
Robert Segura the ride improved after the lift, probably more so due to the larger tires than the lift itself. Became more cushy over bumps and less tin-ney if that makes sense.
Who needs catalytic converters anyway?!lol. Excellent video! Thank you! I am contemplating installing a lift kit for my 2006 CR-V as the original suspension is showing its age. Your subscriber.
Maxim’s DIY Garage i wouldn’t recommend a lift kit as a remedy for sagging suspension. Its best to replace the suspension components and then decide if you do want to lift it. And thanks for being one of my early subs ;)
Hmm because some states still require a vehicle inspection? And, if you fail the inspection because of the that cat delete, you will never be able to register the car legally?
Federal EPA law requires you to a run a CAT
@HMNLT love this video man! What rims / tires are you using on this rig? And their sizes?
ПРЕКРАСНА МАШИНА !!!!!!!!!!!!
Dang that is not great mpgs without the lift to begin with. My 09 4runner and this element get close to similar mpgs and the runner is also lifted (~2.5") dang!
What size wheels and tires are these? Thank you.
Sorry it's late! 235/70/16
Wow fra looks great
Great video thanks, exactly what I was looking for!
Sweet! Glad it helped!
I’ve got 300k on mine I want to lift mine
Do it, it’ll feel like a whole new ride.
What size front and back lift did you order from aerogenics.?
gladwin miguel this is a 2.0 front, 1.5” rear kit. I highly recommend grabbing the level 2 engine and subframe kit
HMNLT what’s the website you got the kit from?
Jimmy sarit check the video description, aerogenicsusa.com
HMNLT also what size tire are you running ?
What kit and tires are you using?
Aerogenics 2" Lift kit front and 1.5" rear. Use code HMNLT for a discount
what is the ground clearance in inches with the lift kit??
You know, I never actually measured it exactly.
How could I go about buying a Honda Element from copart with you? Lmk thank you!
You can setup a free account on copart, and bid on donated vehicles like this one was
Is this ex AWD
What size rim and tire? What brand of falken
Jimmy sarit 15x8 , 235/70/16 falken wildpeak at3/w
HMNLT appreciate the quick response soon to do it to my element
HMNLT you mean 16x8 rim or 15x8 or 235/70/16
HMNLT would you recommend a aluminum rim to reduce weight
Jimmy sarit it cant hurt, i went with steelies because thats what I had and im on a budget! Hahaha
That back wheel is NOT centered. Trimming needs to be done up front.
ah the hallmarks of a NY car...Stupid inspection sticker, temporary registration sticker and the ez-pass thievery device
One of your tires is counter balanced
Im impressed and also slightly scared lol
A lift and tires doesn't make it a jeep. Big difference between camping and overlanding. Your element is a grocery getter that's marginally more capable in mud and snow. At a cost... Waste of time and money to lift this thing.
Sheesh 😂 you probably push a sentra
eeech 18 mpg.... in getting 24 mpg,,, manual 5 speed with 280K new clutch 3 days ago,,,,
Cute puddle, now drive through the middle of it
U never took it on the beach buddy that was just hard pack back bay stuff
Most boring video ever ..the car looks like shit ..don’t see the point of it at all