Lowering a Honda Acty Parts is more than just a modification—it’s a transformation. What was once a humble utility truck becomes a head-turning, street-styled icon. Whether you're aiming for a show build, a retro cruiser, or just a sleeker stance, lowering your Acty is one of the most effective ways to personalize your kei truck and stand out from the crowd.
1. Lowering the Front: Your Best Options
A. Cut Strut Collars (2WD Models Only) A common budget-friendly technique involves cutting the bottom collar off the front struts and seating them deeper into the knuckle. This can give a 1–3 inch drop, but it’s a permanent modification and must be done with care.
B. Aftermarket Lowering Springs Performance springs—often available from Japanese manufacturers—offer a cleaner and more controlled drop (usually 1.5 to 2 inches). These are designed to maintain safe ride quality and suspension geometry.
C. Coilovers For full adjustability, coilover suspension kits allow you to dial in both ride height and dampening. They’re ideal for enthusiasts seeking both aesthetics and performance but can be more expensive.
2. Rear Drop Techniques
A. Leaf Spring Removal (2WD Models) Removing the middle leaf spring is a popular method to lower the rear without replacing components. This drops the ride height but also reduces load capacity and softens the ride.
B. Spring Trimming + Helpers (4WD Models) For 4WD trucks with coil springs in the rear, trimming the springs and adding helper springs can maintain stability while achieving a lowered look.
C. Air Suspension (Custom Builds) Some advanced builders opt for air suspension, giving full control over ride height at the push of a button. This is the most customizable (and dramatic) solution but involves significant custom fabrication and setup.
3. A Typical Front Spring Install – DIY Style
Here’s how a front lowering spring swap typically goes:
Remove the front seats to access the upper strut mounts inside the cab.
Raise and support the vehicle with jack stands, then remove front wheels.
Disconnect the sway bar, brake line brackets, and steering knuckle.
Remove the strut, compress the original spring, and carefully install the lowering spring.
Reinstall everything, torque to spec, and align the front end afterward.
This job can be done with basic tools, a spring compressor, and a good set of safety practices.
4. Community Tips & Real-World Feedback
On Front Modding (2WD): Many owners prefer cutting the strut collar to drop the front inexpensively—but note that this alters geometry permanently and may not pass inspection in some regions.
On Spring Performance: Owners who’ve upgraded to stiffer, performance-oriented lowering springs often report smoother rides with less body roll and zero bottoming-out issues.
On Air Rides: While more costly, air suspension setups are becoming more common in kei truck communities, especially among show builds. Many pair air struts with a simple compressor tank and basic paddle valves for manual control.
6. Finishing Touches After the Drop
Lowering your Acty opens up even more customization options:
Aftermarket wheels and stretched tires to match the stance
Fender flares for extra clearance or flair
Custom paint or vinyl wraps to complete the look
Front lip spoilers and side skirts for added aggression
Camber kits and alignment adjustments to maintain proper tire wear and steering feel
Final Thoughts
Lowering your Honda Acty Parts is a bold step toward creating a unique, unforgettable ride. Whether you're chasing a JDM street aesthetic or just want to cruise closer to the ground, there’s a lowering method to match your budget and build style. From leaf spring mods to full air suspension, the options are endless—and so is the creativity in the Acty scene.
Take your time, do it right, and enjoy the transformation. Your kei truck deserves to roll in style.