I was considering the OME rear stock/spring kit. Not aware of what they do for front lift? Maybe just a torsion bar crank?
At that point, it probably makes sense to install some HD bars, like you suggest.
I just noticed that Front Runner rack, didn't even know about it...I like it, but I'm just not sure I need a rack in general though.
the various OME springs will give you 1-2 inches of lift depending. A Trooper can easily tolerate 3 inches of torsion bar crank without much issue. A ball joint relocate and/or spacer can help with any camber issues resulting.
Thanks for that info. Is the independent4x ball joint spacer kit that I remember seeing on their site worth the money?
I don't know much about that modification, honestly.
Once I'm lifted an inch or three are there any resulting accelerations in wear on any parts like CV joints, etc?
My plan eventually is to install Aisin's or Warns (love to find a set of junkyard Aisins for less than $150.00 plus shipping) to help the CV joints and boots live a longer life, and to improve highway cruising mileage.
Definitely a chunk of change and a sure degridation of aerodynamics. For me, though, with three daughters and my wife - I need all the storage I can get so it's a necessary evil.
If you are lifting under 3", I'm guessing you won't need the BJ spacer. Often the BJ "flip" (relocate the upper BJ to the underside of the control arm) is enough to allow for proper camber alignment. It easy to try the flip first; if the alignment shop (find a competent alignment shop, no "computerized" alignments have ever worked for my Trooper...but I found an alignment specialty shop that did it right the first time) can't get the camber in spec then a BJ spacer is warranted.
Manual hubs are nice for reducing CV wear, and you might pick up a half a mpg or so without the drag of the front drivetrain.
One other thing you can do is a diff drop. You can drop the front diff about 1.5" back and improve your CV angles (the CV joints are stronger when straighter). You can make your own drop brackets by cutting and rewelding the stock diff brackets, or buy from someone like Joe Darlington on Planet Isuzoo. But be advised this is a fairly involved install, requiring you to drop the entire front axle assembly...something that I have done several times but never enjoyed.
Sure, I can see that. For me though it is usually just me and the dog. I just don't need to put stuff on the roof.
Curious on your thoughts in how the Cherokee and Trooper compare?