what is the difference between a sort arm suspension and a long arm suspension? i am new to lifts so try to be as 'un-technical as possible"

 

A short arm set up is using the stock mounting points for the control arms. Some lifts come with adjustable control arms so you can dial in your caster setting, which can be critical.

This is the easiest and most economical way to go, and will do great unless you are an extreme off roader and in need of a lot more articulation, or want to go over about 4 inches of lift. If you go more than 4 inches you will get a much harsher ride since the angle of the control arms is too steep.

A long arm set up moves the mounting point on both the front and rear control arms toward the middle of the Jeep's frame, creating the ability to articulate more, and soften the ride on a lift over 4 inches because of the longer control arms, thus the name "Long Arm" lift. This is the ultimate set up, but is much more expensive, harder to install, and really for the extreme off roaders.

The stock arms are, in fact, short arms.

 

thanx so much for putting it in black and white for me.