I have a quick question.. I am planning on getting an OME lift the HD version and I was looking to make sure that I get charged a fair price for parts and labor.. the local shop quoted me $1,200ish... Fair?

Any help would be appreciated

 

Buy it from David at Northridge and get some help and do it yourself. Seriously. I never thought I would go that route but with one phone call to a friend I found a garage with a lift, all the tools I don't have and the help I need to install my new front bumper and leveling kit. I'll be watching, helping as much as possible and can't wait to do it. Good luck either way.

 

I agree with the last guy. you learn so much about your Jeep when you do the work yourself. When something breaks out on the trail, you'll be familiar with how everything works.
Plus, it is really fun and gives you a tremendous feeling of accomplishment.

 

I would agree with others that it is great to install yourself if you have the skills, tools and time, but if you don't and need to have it installed by a shop the price seems very fair. The lift kit sells for $879 so you are getting the install for just over $300. I would recommend spending a little extra and adding the front lower control arms in order to get your caster set properly. You will have a flighty ride on the highway is your caster is not adjusted.

 

Do it yourself.. Unless welding/cutting is involved in an install, pretty much all lifts can be installed easy with the right tools. And as mentioned you can learn as u go, I helped another member install an ome long travel and at the beginning he was clueless by the end he was leading the way! So don't be scared it really is not that complicated

 

Do it yourself.
1. Buy lift, 12 pack of beer, and hot dogs.
2. If you have a garage, schedule an Install Party. If you don't have a garage ask someone to schedule an Install Party.

Yesterday about about 8 Jeep drivers met at one guys house; One bumper installed, three sets of fenders were chopped, and one set of quick disconnects were installed. Those with experience watched and advised. Those without experience now have experience and can watch and advise at the next party.

 

Installing your first lift is something you will be proud to say to people. I find it to be just as much fin as wheeling. As you can tell, many other members enjoy this as well; this makes other jeepers willing to help.

Oh, and buy from Northridge; they are patient and more than willing give advice.

Good luck

 

Buy it from Northridge 4x4. Get the front and rear adjustable trac bars too. Rent some spring compressors from your local parts store. Follow "Wayoflife's" write up in the Project Jk section of the forum step by step! DO IT YOURSELF!
This is exactly what I did and I have had zero problems with the lift! 18,000 on the lift so far!
You will also gain the knowledge of how the suspension goes together. That"s priceless!

 

I have the OME HD lift on our 2-dr. Do it yourself. It is not difficult and it is a good learning experience. My son and I put ours on in about 3-4 hours, including lunch. The spring compressor would be helpful, but a long (read 4') pry bar will do the same thing. You will need a decent torque wrench to get everything tightened correctly. Other tools needed are just very basic hand tools.

I agree with the other posts...get the adjustable Trac bars and the adjustable front lower control arms if you can afford them. I don't think anyone else mentioned it, but you'll also want the extended rear sway bar links. Put the original rear sway bar links on the front.

The $300 you'll save by doing it yourself will just about buy the lower control arms or the adjustable Trac bars and sway bar links. I'd go Trac bars first then control arms.

 

I did this myself. It was fun and educational.

You will need :
Jack (or two) preferably floor jacks, but I used a 6 ton bottle jack with a few 2 X 4s for height
Two jack stands
Air wrench/compressor OR Torque wrench capable of 95lbs -- AIR is way better, but I used my arms. I'm sure the time estimates assume air tools.
socket set -- 10-22mm (deep is better)

You do not need spring compressors, IMHO.

Tips:
Talk to David at Northridge and tell him what you want. I called him 50 times and he's always been great to deal with
Follow WOL's instructions, especially --disconnect ABS sensor cables, loosen brake lines, remove harness for E-brake to get the axles to drop so you can work the springs in and out.
Don't do this in the freezing cold (trust me), and take your time
Drink the beer afterwards