I bought a 2012 Flame Red JKU Sport in October (my first Jeep!) and I'm looking to upgrade the suspension.

My JKU has only been used as a daily driver so far, but I would like to get out and do some light off-roading soon. I've decided that I want to do it right the first time and put a 2" OME lift on it to improve ride height and ride quality, but I can't decide to get HD or Standard springs.

I will be going to 33" BFG Rugged Terrains soon after the lift, but no bigger or more aggressive because I have 3.21s and don't want the extra weight to kill my gas mileage (I know I might get some crap for that statement). I'm also a college student and don't want to have to spend a ton of money on control arms or a new front drive shaft and I plan on putting the lift on myself -- I don't have much experience in that category -- so I don't want it to get too complicated. I don't plan on putting on any after market bumper or winch either.

I'd appreciate any advice, especially if your running an OME lift -- HD or Standard. Thanks!

John

 

The Heavy Duty springs will give more overall lift than the Standard springs given the same vehicle weight due to a higher spring rate. The HD springs are meant for rigs that are going to be loaded down with a 35" spare on a swing-out carrier, steel bumper with a winch, etc. so you still net ~2" of overall lift. If you don't plan on adding a bunch of weight — which I assume due to your MPG / 33s comment — you should stick with the Standard springs. Yes, you'll net more lift (a guess of ~3-3.5") if you get the HD springs, but the ride will be much rougher due to the higher spring rate.

Basically ...

HD = heavy rig
Standard = lighter / stock rig

HD springs will give you a great ride, but only if your rig is heavy enough to combat the stiffness of the springs.

 

I would go with the standard springs especially if you aren't going to be adding a winch or bumper. The HD springs will net around 3" which is more than you will need with 33's. Not to mention it will ride great with the standards

 

Just went with the standard and love them. Perfect amount of lift for 33's

 

She's fine. I'm in Portland

 

Go standard for your wants. I went HD given I planned to build up the rig. Before adding bumpers, armor, 35s, etc, the ride was a bit too stiff for on (and off) road. With the weight, perfect.

That said, in a couple years when you come into a few bucks you'll be wanting bumpers etc - and then you can sell used to someone and buy the HDs! You may say otherwise, but anyone on this Forum will tell you this is true and its only a matter of how long.

Enjoy!

 

Thanks for the advice! I'm gunna have to go with the standards.


Just curious, have any pictures?

 

I have the HD coils and love them. They ride great. However I would not just put the springs and shocks in and call it a day. At the very least I would add track bars, front lower control arms, brake lines (atleast drop brackets) and bump stops.
But to be honest If I was on a budget and only fitting 33"s I would get the Teraflex 2.5 " budget boost. It maintains your stock ride and won't cost you an arm and a leg. It will allow you to upgrade as you go along. I would def. get new shocks with the budget boost and not use the shock extensions. Just a thought. They are easy to install and get the job done.

If you still want pics of the OME kit here U go.

 

I would say the standard duty coils, but first I would put the tires on and run it without a lift and see what you think.

 

I've got pics but can't post till this weekend. I'm out of town on business