DIY Network

Honda Accord: Adjustable Air-Ride Suspension Andrew Totolos installs an adjustable suspension system that will raise (and lower) the show-car profile of a Honda Accord. From "Tricked Out" episode DTRK-410

	The project car: 1996 Honda Accord sedan.
	Voila! Air-ride suspension!

In this Tricked Out project, host Andrew Totolos gives an already-tricked 1996 Honda Accord a radical show-car upgrade by installing a computer-controlled air-ride suspension system.

Go Low-Pro!

The owner of this Honda has already added some serious modifications, but in order to keep up with those uber-modded Hondas at the shows, she wants to take it to the next level and make this one stand out. Though she'd like to lower the suspension dramatically, this show car doubles as a daily driver so that' s clearly not practical.

Andrew finds a solution to the dilemma by putting in a specialized suspension system that will amp up show car look, but allow for the car to be raised to a comfortable and practical cruising height at the push of a button.

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Air suspension components

Materials and tools for all modifications in this project:

In addition to standard auto-mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, torque wrench, etc.), the essential tools required for this project are listed below.

air tank
compressor
solenoid valves
air hose
control unit
air struts
medium-density fiberboard (MDF)
marker
carpet
adhesive
standard shop tools
drill with bits
wire ties
split loom
square steel stock
grinder

A Note About This Project: Installing an air ride suspension system is a bit more advanced than a regular suspension swap. The project requires installation air struts at each wheel as well as running air lines, mounting compressors and doing some electrical wiring. Following is a summary of the basic steps in the procedure, but it's critical to follow your manufacturer's diretions, wiring instructions and safety precautions.

Important: Included in this summary are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular car or truck, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of upgrade-kit or replacement part that you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

Safety Alert: As a standard safety precaution, always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery cable before you begin work on any electrical or mechanical components.

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection and follow proper safety precautions when working with power tools or pneumatic tools. Also wear eye protection any time you are working underneath a vehicle.

The Project Car: 1996 Honda Accord

For the record, this is not your dad's Accord. Starting with the outside, a metallic maroon custom paint provides a canvas for a broad range of carbon fiber mods. In fact, the owner has gone "carbon-fiber crazy" with high-end composite panels all over — including the ground hugging body kit, the trunk, roof and hood. The body accents continue on the outside mirrors, door pillars and gas filler lid. Lighting has been upgraded all around with HID's and clear corners up front, and ultra high-tech LED's in the rear.

The interior balances comfort and performance with plush and supportive leather wrapped carbon fiber seats; on the dash, custom painted trim panels match the exterior color, and provide extra space for an aftermarket gauge package, turbo timer, and the a/v system that features DVD playback and a flip-out screen.

The Accord rides tight on 20"alloys with upgraded calipers and cross-drilled brake rotors. Under the hood, the 2.6 liter Honda V6 pumps up the power by way of a large turbo tucked in the back, which breathes through a cold air intake pipe, and a large front-mount intercooler behind the lower grill.

Now, want to see what's in store for this Accord in terms of driver-controlled suspension? Keep reading.

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