The Lexus Is300 Coupe, produced from 1998 to 2005, remains a popular choice for car enthusiasts. Adding vertical doors, often called Lambo doors, can further enhance its sporty aesthetic. This guide explores the Vertical Doors, Inc. (VDI) bolt-on vertical door conversion kit designed specifically for the Lexus IS300 coupe.
VDI Lambo Door Kit for the IS300 Coupe: What You Need to Know
VDI offers a comprehensive bolt-on kit that transforms your IS300 coupe’s doors into eye-catching vertical wonders. This kit, designed for all 1998-2005 IS300 trim models, includes:
- Two high-quality gas shocks to assist with door lifting.
- Two VDI Lambo door hinges (one for each side) precision-engineered for a perfect fit.
- All necessary mounting hardware for a straightforward installation.
This kit utilizes the factory bolt pattern on your IS300, ensuring a seamless and secure fit. Manufactured in the USA from durable hardened steel, this kit is built to last. VDI’s patented design is also fully reversible, allowing you to return to the original door configuration if desired.
Installation and Operation of the Vertical Door Kit
VDI designed this kit for ease of installation. If you’re mechanically inclined and possess basic tools, you should be able to install it yourself. The kit comes with a detailed 6-12 page instruction manual and access to free technical support from VDI. Each kit is prototyped to ensure a straightforward installation process.
Operating the doors after the conversion is equally simple. You open the door normally until it reaches a pre-determined stop, then lift it upwards. The included gas shocks significantly reduce the door’s weight, making it easy to raise.
Safety and Quality of VDI Lambo Doors
VDI has over two decades of experience in designing and manufacturing vertical door kits. The hinges are constructed from robust 3/8 and 1/2 inch steel, ensuring exceptional strength and durability.
Unlike some competitors, VDI uses high-quality domestic carbon steel and heat treats all pivot and strike points for maximum reliability. VDI’s commitment to quality and its U.S. patents underscore the difference between their kits and potentially inferior imitations.
Considering a Vertical Door Conversion for Your IS300?
Before purchasing any vertical door kit, research thoroughly. Consult resources like the Better Business Bureau, Google reviews, and car forum discussions to gauge the reputation of different manufacturers and installers. Beware of weld-on kits that may damage your vehicle. Ensure the kit you choose bolts directly to the factory bolt pattern for a simpler installation. Finally, confirm that the kit includes all necessary hardware, shocks, a comprehensive instruction manual, and readily available tech support.
