I'm really getting the itch to start modding my 2012 JKU Rubicon. I really want to add my AEV front and rear bumpers and Warn 9.5 that are just laying in the garage collecting dust from my previous JKU.

I wouldn't mind a slight boost in height as well, but don't want to get into another full lift kit with 35" tires just yet. I've been enjoying the power of the Pentastar on stock wheels and want to continue this a little while longer.

My question is should I just use the Teraflex spacers (that I already have) to get the height that I want and compensate for the bumper weight knowing full well that I may encounter sagging stock springs?

Or would purchasing the Teraflex spring leveling kit be a better option?

 

Spacers will just level you. And keep your ride height the same after your heavy aftermarket bumpers go on. You'll need an actual lift kit to sit higher after heavy bumpers.

 

I've considered the same question and will be in the same situation. I'm thinking when I get around to it I'll do the TF "performance leveling kit" (the one with coils).

 

Spacers will make up the lost ride height, but the height got lost because the springs are permanently compressed by the extra weight. When the springs are compressed the suspension travel is reduced and the springs don't respond as designed. When possible, make up for extra weight by changing to stronger springs rather than spacers. Spacers work best to gain some height on a rig that hasn't lost any height due to extra weight.

Its the same amount of work to change springs as to add spacers.

 

Yep, I agree that springs are the best way to go, my only decision now is which leveling kit to go with.

I was dead set on the Teraflex spring performance leveling system but the price irritates me a bit, especially for something that I know will be temporary.

I ran across the Offroad Evolution 1.5 HD leveling kit which replaces the front springs only. This kit uses a spacer in the rear to gain height banking on the theory that the rear spring are already load rated and should handle the weight of heavy bumpers better. This does make sense being that I do have the tow package and the entire AEV bumper/carrier combo is 125 lbs.

The price on the Offroad Evolution is great and might be the better solution for me, still researching and weighing the options though.

 

I have the TF leveling kit. Then I installed a LoD mid-width, recon winch, and I have a front receiver (to tow my JKU behind my RV) total weight around 150 lbs...my stock springs are sagging after less than 10 months I have the TF 2.5" coils and shocks waiting for me in the garage. According to TF their coils are rated for 170lbs so I still may need to keep one leveling puck up front to be level. Just food for thought. Good luck

 

Was this the puck or spring leveling kit?

 

Fwaahh this is why I'm too uneasy about going the DIY route again. I end up with too many questions at some point and get a lot of conflicting responses when I reach out for help. Have you considered just taking it in to a custom-fab jeep bumper kit guy and having him finish it off for you? Might even cost you less in the long run. Just a thought.

 

I would take stock height measurements on your jeep (bumper, frame, fenders, etc). Put all your heavy shit on. Then measure again to decide how much higher you want everything to sit and then decide how to level/lift it back up. If I were doing springs in front and lifting the rear with spacers I would do the front first then decide which size spacer to stick in the rear to make it sit "right".

 

I know you have a JKU and I have a JK. I installed heavier rate springs with TF spacer kit. I have a heavy bumper and winch. Very happy. I have heard good news with EVO. There is also Rancho 2" you might want to look at as well.