Hey guys! Are you thinking about lifting your Suzuki Samurai? One name that often comes up is Calmini. Let's dive deep into the world of Calmini lift kits for the Suzuki Samurai. We'll explore what makes them tick, what you need to know before buying, and whether they're the right choice for your off-roading needs. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What is Calmini?

Calmini Manufacturing has been a big player in the off-road aftermarket, especially for Suzuki vehicles. Known for their robust designs and focus on serious off-road performance, Calmini lift kits aim to provide the clearance and articulation needed to tackle challenging trails. Their products are engineered for durability, which is a major plus when you're out in the wild. Calmini Manufacturing was acquired by Trail Gear in 2013. Trail Gear is dedicated to manufacturing and supplying quality off-road products for most makes and models of trucks and SUV's. So, if you are looking for Calmini products, you can find them at Trail Gear.

Why Choose a Lift Kit?

Before we get into the specifics of Calmini, let's talk about why you might want a lift kit in the first place. A lift kit increases the distance between your vehicle's frame and axles, giving you:

• More Ground Clearance: This is the most obvious benefit. More clearance means you can drive over larger obstacles without scraping your undercarriage.
• Larger Tires: Lift kits allow you to install bigger tires, which further increases ground clearance and improves traction.
• Improved Approach and Departure Angles: These angles determine how steep an incline you can approach or descend without hitting your bumpers.
• Aggressive Look: Let's be honest, a lifted Samurai looks awesome! It gives your ride a more commanding presence.

Calmini Lift Kits for Suzuki Samurai

Types of Calmini Lift Kits Available

Calmini offered several lift kit options for the Suzuki Samurai, typically ranging from 2 inches to 5 inches of lift. The most common types included:

• Spring Lift Kits: These kits replace your Samurai's stock leaf springs with longer, more flexible springs. This provides lift and improves articulation. These kits usually include extended shackles and u-bolts.
• Spring Over Axle (SOA) Conversion Kits: An SOA conversion involves moving the leaf springs from underneath the axle to on top of it. This provides a significant amount of lift and dramatically improves off-road performance. SOA kits often require additional modifications, such as new shock mounts and possibly driveshaft modifications.
• Body Lift Kits: While Calmini primarily focused on suspension lifts, body lifts were also an option. These kits lift the body away from the frame using spacers. Body lifts are less expensive but don't improve ground clearance or suspension articulation.

Key Features and Benefits

Calmini lift kits were known for several key features:

• Durable Construction: Calmini used high-quality materials and construction techniques to ensure their kits could withstand the rigors of off-road use.
• Improved Articulation: Their spring lift and SOA kits were designed to allow for greater wheel travel, keeping your tires on the ground for better traction.
• Comprehensive Kits: Calmini kits typically included everything you needed for installation, such as springs, shocks, shackles, u-bolts, and hardware.
• Vehicle-Specific Design: Calmini kits were designed specifically for the Suzuki Samurai, ensuring a proper fit and optimal performance.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Before you rush out and buy a Calmini lift kit, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Installation: Installing a lift kit can be a complex job, especially an SOA conversion. If you're not comfortable working on your vehicle, it's best to have it installed by a professional.
• Driveshaft Modifications: SOA conversions and taller lift kits may require driveshaft modifications to prevent vibrations. This could involve lengthening or replacing your driveshafts.
• Brake Lines: Lifting your Samurai can stretch the brake lines. You may need to install longer brake lines to ensure proper braking performance.
• Steering Geometry: Lifting your Samurai can affect the steering geometry, potentially leading to bump steer or other handling issues. You may need to install a steering correction kit to address these issues.
• Cost: Calmini lift kits can be expensive, especially when you factor in the cost of installation and any necessary modifications. Set a budget and stick to it.

Installation Process

Step-by-Step Guide

While a detailed installation guide will come with your specific kit, here's a general overview of the installation process for a spring lift kit:

1. Preparation: Park your Samurai on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and loosen the lug nuts on the wheels.
2. Remove Old Suspension: Support the frame with jack stands, then remove the wheels, shocks, springs, and u-bolts.
3. Install New Springs: Install the new leaf springs, shackles, and u-bolts. Make sure everything is properly aligned and torqued to the correct specifications.
4. Install New Shocks: Install the new shocks, ensuring they are the correct length for your lift kit.
5. Check and Adjust: Double-check all your work, then lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts. Test drive the vehicle and check for any vibrations or handling issues.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Not Using the Right Tools: Make sure you have all the necessary tools before you start. This includes a good set of wrenches, sockets, a torque wrench, and a jack.
• Stripped Bolts: Be careful not to strip any bolts during the installation process. Use penetrating oil and apply steady pressure when loosening stubborn bolts.
• Incorrect Torque Specs: Always torque bolts to the correct specifications. Using the wrong torque can lead to loose bolts or damaged components.
• Ignoring Brake Lines: Make sure your brake lines have enough slack after the lift is installed. If they are too tight, they could rupture.
• Forgetting to Bleed the Brakes: If you disconnect the brake lines, you'll need to bleed the brakes to remove any air from the system.

Alternatives to Calmini Lift Kits

Other Brands and Options

If you're not set on a Calmini lift kit, there are other brands to consider:

• Trail Gear: As mentioned earlier, Trail Gear now owns Calmini. They offer a variety of lift kits and off-road accessories for the Suzuki Samurai.
• Rocky Road Outfitters: Rocky Road Outfitters is another popular brand that offers lift kits and other accessories for the Suzuki Samurai.
• Spidertrax: Spidertrax is known for their high-quality suspension components and offers several lift kit options for the Samurai.

Comparison Table

Maintaining Your Lifted Samurai

Tips for Longevity

• Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your suspension components for wear and tear. Check the springs, shocks, bushings, and u-bolts.
• Proper Lubrication: Lubricate all moving parts, such as the shackles and bushings, to prevent squeaking and wear.
• Wheel Alignments: Get your wheels aligned regularly to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
• Tire Rotation: Rotate your tires every 3,000-5,000 miles to ensure even wear.
• Careful Driving: Avoid excessive speeds and aggressive driving on rough terrain. This will help prolong the life of your suspension components.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Vibrations: Vibrations can be caused by unbalanced tires, worn u-joints, or incorrect driveshaft angles. Have your tires balanced and check your u-joints for play. If necessary, have your driveshaft modified.
• Squeaking: Squeaking is usually caused by dry bushings or shackles. Lubricate these components with a silicone-based lubricant.
• Wandering Steering: Wandering steering can be caused by worn steering components, incorrect wheel alignment, or bump steer. Check your steering components for wear and have your wheels aligned. If necessary, install a steering correction kit.

Conclusion

Choosing the right lift kit for your Suzuki Samurai is a big decision. Calmini lift kits, now under the Trail Gear banner, offer a robust and reliable option for serious off-road enthusiasts. By understanding the different types of kits available, considering the installation process, and maintaining your lifted Samurai properly, you can enjoy improved performance and a more aggressive look. Remember to weigh your options, consider your budget, and choose a kit that matches your driving style and off-road aspirations. Happy trails!