After reading up on all the different lift kits people advise on the forum, I've pretty much decided to go with OME 2" HD lift kit through Northridge. I have a 2007 X unlimited with Rubi wheels and tires (255/75/17 bfgs) and 1.5" wheel spacers. My question is they have two package deals right now and I'm wondering if I should spring the extra cash for option 2 or 3. Here's my choices:

1. just buy the kit for around $670.

2. Old Man Emu Jeep JK Wrangler Lift Kit w/JKS Front & Rear Adjustable Track Bar Package for $925

or

3. Old Man Emu 2.5in HD Lift w/Steering Stabilizer Package for $680.

Would I need a adjustable track bars with this lift? From what I've read, not necessary. Would the steering stabilizer make a big difference in handling with a 2" - 2.5" lift?
Thank for the help. This forum is amazing and chockful of useful info.

 

Aftermarket steering stabilizers do amost nothing

I installed a TF 2.5" lift and did not use any trackbar brackets or aftermarket bars and my axles shifted probably 3/4". If you are looking for it you can see the difference but the jeep drives perfectly straight on the freeway. I will probably get the trackbars eventually but they are not necessary now.

 

I have the OME kit, no front trackbar. The kit comes with a rear panhard bracket that corrects the rear axle.

I don't notice any major issues. It's slightly more flighty on the highway, and I stress slightly. It's not bad at all. My wife drives it every day, and has taken it to the Montana border and she has never once complained, so that there tells you it's not bad...trust me.

With that said, if you can afford the track bars, get them. If you are on a budget, I would say you don't need them right now. I have driven mine about 8k miles with no tire wear issues and no problems at all. When you get the money, upgrade.

I don't think the adjustable track bar will make it drive any better. I think the real issue is the caster. To get it perfect, you need adjustable arms to dial it in. I plan to do that, but really, the Jeep drives great now. That's a luxury I will have only when I have the spare money...so likely never at this pace.

oh...and don't bother with the steering stabilizer, waste of money.

Hope that helps

 

thanks for the input gentlemen. I think, I'll go with just the kit for now (first option) as that will allow budget to purchase other things like new bumper and winch.

 

Any choice is a great starting point if you have any questions please feel free to give me a call.

FYI though the 3rd option is not for a JK.

David

 

I have the OME kit with no adjustable trackbars, no problem whatsoever. If you look at WOL write up:
http://project-jk.com/jeep-jk-write-...ation-write-up
He doesn't use adjustable track bar either. If your lift is under 3" adjustable track bars are unnecessary but as David would point out " Nice to have " nevertheless...