Can Am Outlander Lift Kit Problems

So, you’re thinking about giving your Can-Am Outlander a little boost with a lift kit? Maybe you’re dreaming of conquering tougher trails, navigating deeper mud, or just giving your ride a more aggressive stance. Lift kits can certainly transform your ATV, but before you pull the trigger, it’s crucial to understand that it’s not all sunshine and lifted suspension. Installing a lift kit can introduce a whole new set of potential problems if not done correctly or if you choose the wrong kit. This article dives deep into the common issues you might encounter, helping you make an informed decision and avoid costly headaches down the road.

Is a Lift Kit Really Right for Your Outlander?

Before we even get into the nitty-gritty of potential problems, let's pump the brakes and ask the fundamental question: is a lift kit actually the best solution for what you want to achieve? Often, people jump straight to lift kits without considering the alternatives.

Tire Size: Sometimes, all you need is a slightly larger tire to gain the ground clearance you're after. A small increase in tire size might achieve your goals without drastically altering the suspension geometry or introducing the stress that a lift kit can.
Riding Style: Are you a hardcore mudder, a weekend trail rider, or something in between? A lift kit is almost essential for serious mudding, but for casual trail riding, the downsides might outweigh the benefits.
Budget: Lift kits themselves can be expensive, but the cost doesn't stop there. You might need new axles, tie rod ends, and even upgraded brakes to handle the increased stress. Factor in the potential for increased maintenance, and the overall cost can quickly balloon.

Take a good, hard look at your needs and budget before committing. There might be a more cost-effective and less problematic way to achieve your desired outcome.

The "Domino Effect": How a Lift Kit Can Trigger a Chain Reaction of Problems

Think of your Outlander's components as a delicately balanced system. When you introduce a lift kit, you're essentially throwing a wrench into that system. This can set off a chain reaction, leading to a variety of problems.

1. Axle Angles and Premature Wear: This is probably the most common and significant issue. Lift kits increase the angle at which your axles operate. While a slight increase might be manageable, a larger lift pushes the axles beyond their designed range.

What Happens? This excessive angle puts immense stress on the CV joints (Constant Velocity joints) at the ends of the axles. These joints are responsible for transmitting power while allowing the suspension to move. Over time, the increased stress leads to premature wear and eventual failure.
Symptoms: Clicking or popping noises, especially when turning, are often the first sign. You might also notice excessive play in the axles or grease leaking from the CV boots.
The Fix: Upgrading to heavy-duty axles specifically designed for lifted ATVs is often necessary. These axles are made from stronger materials and have CV joints that can handle the increased angles.

2. Tie Rod Troubles: Just like axles, tie rods are also affected by the altered suspension geometry.

What Happens? The increased angle can cause the tie rod ends to bind or wear prematurely. This can lead to sloppy steering and even failure of the tie rod end, resulting in a loss of steering control.
Symptoms: Loose or wandering steering, excessive play in the steering wheel, and clunking noises from the front end are all potential warning signs.
The Fix: Upgrading to heavy-duty tie rod ends or even complete tie rod assemblies is a smart investment. Look for kits made from stronger materials with improved articulation.

3. Ball Joint Blues: Ball joints are critical components that connect the suspension to the wheel hub. They allow the wheels to move up and down and steer.

What Happens? Lift kits can put additional stress on the ball joints, accelerating wear and potentially leading to failure.
Symptoms: Loose or wobbly wheels, clunking or rattling noises from the front end, and uneven tire wear are all indicators of worn ball joints.
The Fix: Replacing the ball joints with heavy-duty aftermarket options is often necessary, especially with larger lift kits.

4. Brake Line Strain: This is often overlooked, but it's a critical safety concern.

What Happens? Lifting your Outlander can stretch the brake lines, potentially causing them to rub against other components or even snap under stress.
Symptoms: Leaking brake fluid, soft or spongy brakes, and a general lack of braking power are all serious warning signs.
The Fix: Installing extended brake lines specifically designed for lifted ATVs is a must. This ensures that you have adequate brake line length and prevents dangerous stretching or rubbing.

5. Handling Headaches: A lift kit inevitably alters your Outlander's center of gravity.

What Happens? A higher center of gravity makes your ATV more prone to tipping over, especially on off-camber trails. It can also affect the handling and stability, making it feel less predictable and harder to control.
Symptoms: Increased body roll in turns, a feeling of instability at higher speeds, and a greater risk of tipping over.
The Fix: Wider wheels or wheel spacers can help improve stability, but they also add stress to other components. Learning to adjust your riding style and being more cautious on uneven terrain is essential.

6. CV Boot Catastrophes: CV boots protect the CV joints from dirt, debris, and water.

What Happens? The increased axle angles caused by lift kits can stretch and tear the CV boots, allowing contaminants to enter the CV joints and accelerate wear.
Symptoms: Grease leaking from the CV boots.
The Fix: High quality aftermarket CV boots are available that are more durable than the factory boots. Also, regularly inspect the boots for damage and replace them promptly if necessary. Relocating the vent lines for the differentials and transmission can also help prevent water from entering the boots.

7. Suspension Stiffness: Some lift kits, particularly those that use spacers, can make the suspension feel stiffer.

What Happens? This can result in a rougher ride and reduced articulation, limiting your ATV's ability to conform to uneven terrain.
Symptoms: A harsh, jarring ride, reduced traction on uneven surfaces, and difficulty navigating obstacles.
The Fix: Look for lift kits that utilize progressive springs or shock relocation brackets to maintain a more comfortable ride.

Choosing the Right Lift Kit: Quality Matters!

Not all lift kits are created equal. Opting for a cheap, poorly designed kit can exacerbate all the problems mentioned above. Here's what to look for when choosing a lift kit:

Reputable Brand: Stick with well-known brands that have a proven track record of quality and reliability. Read reviews and do your research.
Material Quality: Look for kits made from durable materials like high-strength steel or aluminum. Avoid kits made from cheap, brittle metals.
Design and Engineering: A well-designed lift kit will take into account the altered suspension geometry and minimize stress on other components.
Completeness: Make sure the kit includes all the necessary hardware and instructions. A good kit may also include extended brake lines or other necessary upgrades.
Lift Height: Consider the lift height carefully. A smaller lift (1-2 inches) is generally less problematic than a larger lift (3 inches or more).

Installation: Do It Right or Pay the Price

Even the best lift kit can cause problems if it's not installed correctly. If you're not comfortable working on your Outlander's suspension, it's best to have it installed by a qualified mechanic.

Follow the Instructions: Read the instructions carefully and follow them step-by-step. Don't cut corners or skip steps.
Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all fasteners to the specified torque. Over-tightening or under-tightening can lead to problems.
Alignment: After installing the lift kit, it's essential to have your Outlander's alignment checked and adjusted. This will help prevent uneven tire wear and improve handling.
Double-Check Everything: Before hitting the trails, double-check all fasteners and make sure everything is properly installed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will a lift kit void my warranty? It depends on the manufacturer and the specific terms of your warranty. Check with your dealer before installing a lift kit.
How much does it cost to install a lift kit? Installation costs vary depending on the complexity of the kit and the labor rates in your area. Expect to pay several hundred dollars for professional installation.
Do I need to upgrade my axles with a lift kit? It's highly recommended, especially with larger lift kits. Upgraded axles are stronger and can handle the increased stress.
Will a lift kit affect my fuel economy? Yes, a lift kit can decrease your fuel economy due to increased weight, larger tires, and altered aerodynamics.
Can I install a lift kit myself? If you have mechanical experience and the right tools, you can install a lift kit yourself. However, it's a complex job, and professional installation is recommended.

Final Thoughts: Lift with Caution

A Can-Am Outlander lift kit can unlock new levels of off-road capability and give your ride a unique look. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential problems and take steps to mitigate them. Choose a quality kit, install it correctly, and be prepared to upgrade other components as needed. By doing your homework and being proactive, you can enjoy the benefits of a lifted Outlander without the headaches.