Went back and forth on whether this should be in the Write-ups or Modified.. move if needed...

First the good news: Purchased my first JK 1 year ago (almost to the day) Have been researching/ searching the forum ever since on what to do first (this is quite possibly more addicting than crack). Finally decided I would phase in a Teraflex lift 2.5" and 33-35" tires this summer as I need new tires anyway, XD Monster 18x9 by the end of the year, and regear in a year or two (4.88 or 5.13), to keep this as my DD and weekend fun.

Now fast forward to a month ago , at a jeep event, I won a 2.5" Teraflex Coil/Shock from our local 4x4 shop here in Denver (High Country Performance 4x4). Lined up a test fit for Nitto Trail Grapplers (285/65R18 and 295/70R18 as I"m trying to run without new wheels or spacers if I can.) Priced two intallations for the lift; one from HCP at $650 +- and one from a independent mechanic $350 +-.. Things are looking great. Then the boss implements a 10% pay cut across the board (dang economy BS) and now i'm left with a kit and no funds to install. (did i mention I just had a baby too? there goes my play money)

So the question is can I install this lift kit with absolutely no automotive background whatsoever? I've read the write ups and there are a good deal of tools needed as well, can you rent stuff like this? Don't get me wrong, love to get my hands dirty and the challenge (i'm an architect), but have never messed with vehicles. if any of you have ideas on how to do this or if they installed a kit for the first time, would love the input..

By the way, the wife already complains about lifting the carseat in Stock, can't wait to add another 5"... haha..

 

You'll need at least $150 worth of tools to do this job (including a breaker bar, torque wrench, etc). Plus a 3-ton jack and jack stands.

Odds are you'll be into it for over $200 on tools and stuff before you even get started. If you want to learn more about working on your Jeep and plan to use the tools for future jobs then great--you've now invested in a set of nice tools. If all you want them for is to install the lift, I'd say pay the shop $350 and be done with it.

You certainly can install the lift yourself, but it's not the cakewalk some on here make it out to be. I think that amounts to quality bonding time with your Jeep, but YMMV.

 

If you have or can borrow the tools, I highly recommend doing it with the help of a buddy or at least by yourself (but that will take a little longer). The knowledge you gain will be priceless down the road for maintenance, trail repairs, etc. The lift you have isn't very difficult at all, just take your time. Have fun and post pictures when it's done

 

I agree, but make sure said buddy has quality tools, not some combo set he picked up at Target for $49. You'll want 1/2" drive on your sockets, breaker, and torque wrench. Plus some quality sockets with extensions. And do NOT NOT NOT NOT NOT skimp on the jack and jack stands! You need to jack the Jeep up pretty damn high for some of this work. You need to have utter confidence that your lifting equipment will not fail.

 

I have a feeling that if you ask some of the Colorado guys will be happy to help

 

Keep it coming.. I'm getting more encouraged to tackle this over the 4th.. I was thinking the same thing about having the tools and the knowledge once out on the trails... Recommendation on tools are welcome too...

 

x2 on that.

 

I'm sure I'm forgetting some things, but here's a partial list.

Socket set with 1/2" drive plus 10, 15, 18, 19, and 21 mm sockets.

18, 19, and 21 mm socket wrenches (preferably ratcheting).

Socket extensions.

1/2" drive breaker bar.

1/2" torque wrench (a good one that'll do at least 200 lb/ft).

Good adjustable wrench.

Rubber mallet.

Hammer.

PB Blaster.

Red/Blue LocTite.

3-ton service jack.

6-ton jack stands (just to be sure).

Measuring tape.

Wheel chocks.

Chalk.

Spring compressor (can be borrowed from Autozone if needed).



Most of my tools are Craftsman or Husky Pro (Home Depot's house brand). They've both worked well on lots of different projects.

Plan ahead, take your time, and get a buddy to help you.

Don't forget to shift your Jeep into 4-Lo before you begin. Helps (along with the wheel chocks) keep it from rolling when both rear wheels are off the ground!

Also, watch your rear wheel/tire clearance on the sway bar end links. I needed spaces to clear properly. That was another $190 tacked on to the price of the lift (although the spacers really balance out the stance nicely).

EDIT: having a spare car handy for trips to the store for stuff you need is helpful, too.

 

I've never heard of a fellow jeeper turn down helping another jeeper in need of some assistance!
Just ask around.
If you don't find anyone, I bet you could do it your self.
I installed my 4" using the factory jack, 8 cinder blocks and a bunch of elbow grease. Took me 9 hours. You never know until you try. Good luck

 

Started to price tools and would definately be closer to $200. Really want to give this a try but the wife thinks I'm crazy. I guess we'll have to wait and see. Any more thoughts out there?