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Some more help with a lift

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Old Nov 26, 2008 | 07:08 PM
  #1  
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Default Some more help with a lift

I have been trying to put together a complete lift for my (now) stock 2007 2 door X with automatic transmission from the deals I've gotten here on the forum, some locally, and a few on eBay.

So far I have a Superlift 4" lift kit, which includes the springs, shocks, adjustable front sway bar, rear track bar bracket, rear sway bar links (OEM rear links go to front), brake brackets, and cam bolts (Ugh!).

I've also picked up a Rubicon Express rear CV drive shaft and T-case flange, a set of sway bar quick disconnects, and a dual steering stabilizer, both from Rough Country. I even have a M.O.R.E. 1" body lift kit that I may use on this build...

I'm trying to get everything together for a good, flexible lift on a low budget so I can use 35's or better and really wheel this Jeep. I've spent about $700 (including the shipping) on all this so far but I know I need some more stuff.

I hijacked a thread a few days ago and got some good info from Wayoflife and others but would like some more input on what else to buy before I install all this stuff.

Originally Posted by wayoflife

being that you have an automatic and a 2-door, you will want a new aftermarket drive shaft up front right away. in the rear, the drive shaft angle will be sever and the cv boots being in a constant state of pinch will require you to get one here sooner than later as well but, you will be okay for a while. as far as gears go, you will feel a power loss with 35's and you might be okay with it. if not, i would recommend that you regear to 5.13's.... if you push it, you can break your dana 30 front axle shafts unless you upgrade to chromoly shafts.

Last edited by jjhinman; Nov 26, 2008 at 07:15 PM.
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Old Nov 27, 2008 | 06:02 AM
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I'm also getting ready to install a 4" lift. From everything I've been told, you're going to end up replacing the front driveshaft anyway, it's just a matter of whether your want to wait until the stock one hits the auto trans and tears the boot or you replace it it before that happens. The first time you go off road and flex, it will happen.
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Old Nov 27, 2008 | 06:40 AM
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Just so you know, you will probably need some adjustable rear upper control arms....everyone I know (including myself) found that the new driveshaft will vibrate like crazy unless you can adjust your pinion angle.
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Old Nov 27, 2008 | 09:02 AM
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Originally Posted by N2rock
Edit: I just re-read your post, and am confused. At one point you stated "OEM rear links go to front", then in the next paragraph you stated "a set of sway bar quick disconnects"
Sorry about the confusing original post.

The Superlift kit I bought has new rear links and the original rear links are supposed to replace the front links during the swap. I have already bought a set of quick disconnects for the front so I will be skipping that step in the installation.

So it looks like that a new front drive shaft will be next on my list of things to buy.

Will I need adjustable control arms both in front and back to correct the drive shaft problems or will one set do. Which would be better, upper or lower adjustables???
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Old Nov 27, 2008 | 01:35 PM
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Originally Posted by jjhinman
Sorry about the confusing original post.

The Superlift kit I bought has new rear links and the original rear links are supposed to replace the front links during the swap. I have already bought a set of quick disconnects for the front so I will be skipping that step in the installation.

So it looks like that a new front drive shaft will be next on my list of things to buy.

Will I need adjustable control arms both in front and back to correct the drive shaft problems or will one set do. Which would be better, upper or lower adjustables???
I just installed this kit on my JK, and you will definitely want front control arms rather than using the cam bolts. I went with front lowers, although at some point I will end up swapping out the front uppers and both rear control arms.

You will also want a front drive shaft. Your OEM will last one wheeling trip before you rip the CV boot, and then it is just a matter of time before the rest of the driveshaft bites the dust. Mine is probably going to be replaced in January unless it doesn't make it that long...

I didn't have to replace my rear shaft yet, but the odds are likely that you will need the rear upper control arm to get the pinion angle correct.
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Old Nov 27, 2008 | 02:31 PM
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I picked up a brand new Rubicon Express double cardin rear drive shaft with a flange adapter for $166 so that part is taken care of. Hopefully I can find a good deal on the front drive shaft soon.

I'm online right now pricing adjustable front and rear control arms. It looks like a complete set of F&R, upper and lower adjustable are available for about $850 for the set. That way I ought to be able to do away with the cam bolts then!
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Old Nov 28, 2008 | 06:18 AM
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Thanks for the comments. The 1" body lift was an added bonus thrown in with the Superlift kit that I bought. I definitely had second thoughts on using it already.

I'm basicaly trying to put together a complete lift using parts I find cheap in the forums and for sale on eBay . I got a good deal on the 4" lift (with the 1"body lift) so that's the main reason I went with that. I think I got even a better deal on the rear drive shaft...

Now I'm on the look out for adjustable control arms, a front DS, and upgraded axle shafts. I don't want to use the cam bolts that came with the lift kit so the arms are next on the list. I figure I can hold out on the gear swap for a little while after I get the rest installed.
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