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After almost 4 years of ownership, I'm now only creating a build thread. Mainly because the original plan was to keep it stock and have a nice, simple daily to replace my '93 Civic EX sedan.
A brief overview of my ownership and experience with my LS, initially I admired the simple and understated look of an all OEM LS430 (still do). But eventually I was captivated by lowered LS's on the forums and social media, and soon enough I found myself shopping for coilovers and wheels. I ended up with BC coilovers with Swift springs and 19" Varrstoen wheels. I wanted a middle of the road, in between form and function setup. I thought it was going to be a one-and-done, single phase "build". but a few years later I found myself being bored of coilovers and dissatisfied with the rep wheels I had on. As of early 2019, I started looking into air suspension, decided to pull the trigger and here we are today. Currently I have short knuckles waiting to be installed so I can go lower. I should've had my wheels already since I ordered them back in August, but Japan plays too much lol. I hope you enjoy and stay tuned for the rest of the build 🤙🏽
The first phase: I thought it looked really cool for what it was. I didn’t go too low since the spring rates were the stock 10/8k. Even at this height, you bottomed out if you weren’t careful.
I finally swooped up this Airlift 3P kit from Bagriders on Black Friday for 25% off. I got lucky and basically bought a fully spec'd out kit for the price of the cheapest kit they offer that came with a single Viair 380c compressor.
Package came in super late and at separate times. As long as the ensemble was complete by the end of the night, I was happy.
Quality packaging
They really did a good job with the packaging, making every component feel very special and high quality.
Tried to see if the controller would fit for a hidden setup lol
First time installing bags meant I didn’t know what I was suppose to do with this lol
Drilled the holes for the lines. Then Dremeled the holes to smooth out the rough edges so it won’t damage the lines. I sprayed the exposed metal with paint then cleaned the overspray. The holes are straight, it just looks funny on the picture.
Added grommets to the holes to make it look more presentable. The fine little details makes it that much more fun to work on cars.
Testing out the lines, I opted for 3/8’s lines for a quicker air-up/air-out.
Mock up of the trunk setup.
The kit came with templates for the manifold and compressors. But since I was running silencers, the footprint id a little different and had to mark holes the old fashioned way. Viair 400C compressor x2.
Right side.
The prongs on the fuse adapter that came with the kit was too short and didn’t fit. I had to buy another one from Amazon.
Water trap ready to go.
Leader lines threaded in.
Had a run in with a stuck bolt, best believe I tossed that one out and put in a new one from the dealer.
Out with the old, in with the new.
Perfect fit.
I made sure to cut off bolts sticking out and round off any sharp edges that can potentially hurt the bags. Then I covered it with paint. (With silver paint this time lol)
Originally I ran the USB under the side leather trim and over to the controller since I thought I was going to have to Dremel a small hole on the wood trim if I wanted it to go in and wedge in between the wood panels. Turns out it fits just fine.
Clean tucked look. I love that “floating” look.
I relocated the controller. It wasn’t really a problem on the left side. I just think this is more functional. Plus, it now gives that already hidden compartment, a more “James Bond” secret compartment vibe 😉
These collars suck. I suggest ditching the wrenches and using a screwdriver and hammer.
Last edited by Wlpls430; Dec 11, 2020 at 08:26 AM.
When you wake up the next day and see its holding air 😅
Straight to Cars & Coffee!
I love that tuck. Once I receive the RCA’s I ordered I should be able to install my short knuckles and tuck even more 🤙🏼
Docked.
The finished product! I opted out of doing a hidden trunk setup after getting two flats in one night, probably best I keep the spare with me lol. I really like the understated, simplistic look of the OEM trunk lining, which is why I decided not to go with a wood floor setup. I also added quick release connections for the compressors in case I need to remove and service it, since aluminum is super soft and easy to cross-thread.
Last edited by Wlpls430; Dec 11, 2020 at 08:25 AM.
First proper video of the aftermath, I've never been so satisfied with an install. This is max air-up to max air-out. I don't ride this high at all, especially the front. I just wanted to showcase how high it goes.
Lexus Boy$
This tuck is something else
“Even at the drive-thru?!”
After car wash pic
Authorized Lexus Parking Only
Garage lighting hitting different
No ding spots only.
Last edited by Wlpls430; Dec 11, 2020 at 08:25 AM.
For a short moment, I neglected the LS and and drove it with faded headlights. I used a restoration kit, but I wasn't happy, then did an actual clear coat spray (DIY). I did a terrible Job and decided to have someone with a real gun spray it.
Vegas sun is undefeated.
The after.
Last edited by Wlpls430; Dec 11, 2020 at 06:28 AM.
I ordered short knuckles from someone I came across on IG named Nedin, from Germany. And it came about a month later. It is 30mm shorter with no camber change.
Will be installing as soon as my RCA comes in. Japan plays too much.
Shout out to @nedin_lowadctd all the way across the pond 💯
Last edited by Wlpls430; Dec 11, 2020 at 07:14 AM.
Wendell’s 2006 LS430 VIP Build
