Which cheap ~2" lift for '09 JK Unlimited?

[scarysharkface]

I want a little extra clearance to compensate a bit for the longer wheelbase, but don't have much $$$ to spend (i.e. I'm very nearly broke, but not quite). Is there a significant difference between the spring-spacer lift kits, or are they all simply variations on a theme? I know I'll need longer shocks, but for a couple of inches will I *need* anything else?

Not sure if I'll be doing this first or if I'll be installing a Congo Cage first, but figure I might as well start collecting some data.

This is the vehicle in question:

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=28546

Thanks in advance..

John

 

[Scott Brady]

If funds are the real issue, just install a poly spacer lift. Easy as pie, and they work ok, though do not help you with heavier loads.

I happen to have a set of 3" springs laying around if you are interested, but the rears are for a really heavy load, like stock +700 lbs, so fully loaded for a trip. They are just laying around, so I can send them to you for $100 + shipping. oh, front is dual-rate Tera-Flex. Front has two weeks of use before I installed the Nth degree kit and rears are spares, never installed.

 

[scarysharkface]

If funds are the real issue, just install a poly spacer lift. Easy as pie, and they work ok, though do not help you with heavier loads.

I happen to have a set of 3" springs laying around if you are interested, but the rears are for a really heavy load, like stock +700 lbs, so fully loaded for a trip. They are just laying around, so I can send them to you for $100 + shipping. oh, front is dual-rate Tera-Flex. Front has two weeks of use before I installed the Nth degree kit and rears are spares, never installed.

Before I say "sold" (or type it, as it were), what additionally should I install to make those work okay?

John

 

[scarysharkface]

On the other hand, I'll take 'em. I haul a big bass amplifier every other weekend or so, and those sound like just the ticket. PM me where to send the check or paypal, please!

Thanks greatly..

John

 

[Stumpalump]

For 300 bucks you can buy new springs. http://www.polyperformance.com/shop/Poly-Performance-Jeep-JK-Front-Lift-Springs-p-16404.html

 

[scarysharkface]

For 300 bucks you can buy new springs. http://www.polyperformance.com/shop/Poly-Performance-Jeep-JK-Front-Lift-Springs-p-16404.html

I've already snagged Scott's springs. Looking at ordering the trackbar relocation brackets from quadratec, then shopping for shocks..

I haul unreasonably heavy crap (and pull a trailer sometimes), so the heavy rear springs will be good for me. Might even make a hitch carrier for the KLR a possibility...

John

 

[Hilldweller]

Find the JKS page and start footnoting other bits you might need.
Be ready to fab a set of brakeline relocation brackets from "fencemenders" from Home Depot in case your brakelines are rubbing or stretching.
And start thinking about caster angle.

Did you put on bigger tires yet?

 

[scarysharkface]

Find the JKS page and start footnoting other bits you might need.
Be ready to fab a set of brakeline relocation brackets from "fencemenders" from Home Depot in case your brakelines are rubbing or stretching.
And start thinking about caster angle.

Did you put on bigger tires yet?

Ah, yes, brakeline relocation brackets.. Hadn't thought about that, but I guess I might have to..

Castor angle is something I had thought about, but since no one had mentioned it (until now) I figured it would be a non-issue. I suppose the effect of 3" of lift up front will be exacerbated by stiffer springs in the back. Am I going to have a problem?

I don't plan to put bigger tires on it at this point. I just want to avoid dragging the belly when I cross things. I've got a Comanche with 4" lift and small tires, and that setup works very well for me in the woods. When the OEM tires wear out, then I'll have an excuse to investigate my options..

Thanks for bringing these potential issues to light..

John

 

[scarysharkface]

Front springs installed.

Beauty, they are, and perfect for my application.

Rear springs installed, but overkill for what I need so I'm swapping those with the local springs place for something less ambitious. When Scott said Heavy Duty, he was not kidding.

Should have the lovely wonderful yellow beast back on the road tomorrow if the springs arrive on time, then maybe a camping trip to Southern Illinois (for some rock climbing) is in order! If not, I'll have to ride the KLR. Life does not suck. :bike_rider:

Thanks to Scott for the good deal on springs and giving this noob some quality guidance.

I hope to one day meet some of you ExPo'ers out on the trail.. :smiley_drive:

John