If you own a Honda Acty Kei Truck, you know it’s a compact powerhouse built for utility and efficiency. But over time, the front suspension springs can wear out or may not offer the ride height and load capacity you need. Upgrading your front springs is a simple yet effective way to improve handling, increase load capability, and even lift your Acty for better clearance.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of upgrading the front springs on your Honda Acty Kei Truck, with all the tips and safety reminders you need.
Why Upgrade Your Front Springs?
Improved Load Handling: Heavier springs help keep the truck stable when carrying more weight.
Better Ride Height: Gain extra clearance for rough terrain or a lifted look.
Enhanced Ride Comfort: Replace sagging or worn springs to smooth out bumps and vibrations.
What You’ll Need
Tools:
Floor jack and jack stands
Wheel chocks
Lug wrench
Socket and ratchet set (10-19mm sizes)
Breaker bar
Spring compressor
Torque wrench
Penetrating oil (like WD-40)
Pry bar (optional)
Parts:
Replacement front coil springs (OEM or aftermarket lift springs)
Optional: new strut mounts and bushings
Step 1: Safety First — Prepare Your Work Area
Park your Acty on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels. Loosen the front wheel lug nuts just enough to break them free, but don’t remove them yet.
Step 2: Lift and Secure Your Truck
Use a floor jack to raise the front of the truck. Position jack stands under the frame or control arms to securely support the vehicle. Remove the front wheels to access the suspension.
Step 3: Remove the Front Strut Assembly
Open the hood and locate the three nuts securing the top of the strut assembly. Spray penetrating oil on all bolts and nuts to loosen any rust. Remove the lower bolts attaching the strut to the steering knuckle. Then remove the upper nuts from inside the engine bay and carefully take out the strut assembly.
Step 4: Replace the Coil Springs
Using a spring compressor, safely compress the coil spring on the strut. Remove the top strut nut and separate the top mount from the spring. Remove the old spring and install your new upgraded spring, making sure it seats correctly on the perch. Reassemble the top mount and secure the nut tightly.
Step 5: Reinstall the Strut Assembly
Place the strut assembly back into the strut tower and loosely thread the upper nuts. Reattach the strut to the steering knuckle and torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications. Then, fully tighten the upper strut nuts.
Step 6: Reinstall Wheels and Lower Your Acty
Put the front wheels back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle carefully to the ground and torque the lug nuts in a star pattern to the recommended torque setting.
Step 7: Final Checks and Test Drive
Take your Acty for a slow test drive to listen for any unusual noises and to feel how the new springs improve ride quality. Don’t forget to schedule a professional wheel alignment — this is crucial to prevent uneven tire wear and ensure safe handling.
Pro Tips and Safety Reminders
Always use a spring compressor when working with coil springs to avoid injury.
If your shocks are worn or not compatible with the new springs, consider upgrading them as well.
Inspect strut mounts, bushings, and other suspension parts during installation and replace if needed.
Follow the manufacturer’s torque specs strictly to avoid component failure.
Conclusion
Upgrading the front springs on your Honda Acty Kei Truck is a rewarding DIY project that can significantly enhance your truck’s performance and versatility. With the right tools, parts, and precautions, you can give your Acty better load handling, improved ride height, and a smoother drive.
Got questions or need spring recommendations? Drop a comment below or get in touch — happy to help!