Do I need to replace Drive shaft
Thread Starter
JK Freak
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 721
Likes: 0
From: Warsaw, IN
Do I need to replace Drive shaft
Thinking about going to a Rubicon express 4.5 long arm suspension. Curious if my stock drive shaft will be okay for the time being or will I need to replace it right away. Any thoughts?
JK Junkie
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 2,343
Likes: 1
From: The San Andreas Fault
With that much lift it depends on how much you let your suspension droop. At moderate droop the boot will tear, but at higher angles the shaft will interfere with transmission skid plate.
For instance the AEV 4.5" kit comes with most of the same components as the 3.5" kit. If you want to use the 4.5" kit with stock front shaft, you just set up the shocks in 3.5" configuration to limit droop. This is a short arm kit. A long arm kit can provide even more droop so you have to be even more careful or install a smaller diameter shaft.
For instance the AEV 4.5" kit comes with most of the same components as the 3.5" kit. If you want to use the 4.5" kit with stock front shaft, you just set up the shocks in 3.5" configuration to limit droop. This is a short arm kit. A long arm kit can provide even more droop so you have to be even more careful or install a smaller diameter shaft.
Thread Starter
JK Freak
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 721
Likes: 0
From: Warsaw, IN
With that much lift it depends on how much you let your suspension droop. At moderate droop the boot will tear, but at higher angles the shaft will interfere with transmission skid plate.
For instance the AEV 4.5" kit comes with most of the same components as the 3.5" kit. If you want to use the 4.5" kit with stock front shaft, you just set up the shocks in 3.5" configuration to limit droop. This is a short arm kit. A long arm kit can provide even more droop so you have to be even more careful or install a smaller diameter shaft.
For instance the AEV 4.5" kit comes with most of the same components as the 3.5" kit. If you want to use the 4.5" kit with stock front shaft, you just set up the shocks in 3.5" configuration to limit droop. This is a short arm kit. A long arm kit can provide even more droop so you have to be even more careful or install a smaller diameter shaft.
Is it true that it will also give me a smoother ride on the road as well considering i use it as a everyday driver?
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 153
Likes: 0
From: Joplin, MO
Auto or standard? 2 or 4 door? That much lift on a 2 door will cause the rear to fail. That much lift with an auto will cause the front boot to rip when you droop. Going that high, I would just plan on replacing at least the rear and probably the front too because I am guessing it is an auto.
JK Jedi Master
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 11,463
Likes: 165
From: Austin <--> Colorado Springs
Nobody can say when your shafts will fail. Budget for them, and drive on the stocks until they go...
But, the MFG's recommendations may be a good place to start.
But, the MFG's recommendations may be a good place to start.
Application: 2007-2008 4 door JK
RE7344 4.5 inch Extreme Duty Long Arm System
NOTE: Front and rear driveline modifications will be required.
RE7344 4.5 inch Extreme Duty Long Arm System
NOTE: Front and rear driveline modifications will be required.
JK Junkie
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 2,343
Likes: 1
From: The San Andreas Fault
The JK has longer stock arms thanks to its longer wheelbase, but on the TJ the stock arms were so short that long arms were more of a necessity than a luxury for tall lifts.
WOL did a really nice write up on the benefits of long arms in one thread.
There are also a lot of positive threads about the improvement in ride quality and flex from those that have converted to long arm kits.
