So I've been reading a million threads on lifts (and the FAQs) and still find myself somewhat confused and looking for advice.

I just picked up a 2010 Unlimited Sport 6sp. I am looking at putting on a lift (probably ~3-4") and 35s. My question is around the benefits of the high dollar lifts. I see so many lifts that are 500-700 and many others >$2k. I understand the higher dollar lifts have more parts, but are they needed?

I am not a hard core trail wheeler, but rather am looking for a daily driver (ie. stable handling at 75mph) that I can take on the occasional trail or to ride around my property.

Given my desired outcome, do I need a lift with all the suspension components - do they benefit on-road stability and ride or are they really only benefiting articulation and hard core off-roading?

Can I get something reliable for $1000 or does my intended use require I spend more $ to be happy. I am not looking to buy poor quality, but at the same time do not need a high end wheeling set-up.

What would be good recommendations and what parts are really required? Also, if I ever decided to go with 37s, can any of the lifts be upgraded? I know I would need driveshafts and gears at a later date, but do some 3.5" lifts off upgrade potential to add some height to enable 37s down the road.

thanks in advance!
Mike

 

I'm no expert but I read alot, IMO jst get a good coil lift like OME with HD coils or teraflex 2.5' those will give you from 3'' to 3.5'', get front and rear trackars, rear link kit and put the oem rear links in the front.... you should be all good with this and your 35" will fit plenty... if you want to upgrade to 37's just add some spacers or body lift, but you might have problems with driveshaft at that point, not to sure about 4 doors, i drive a 2door.....

Anyway my points is buy a good quality lift first, don't make the same mistake I made......

just my 2 cents

 

If your only daily driving the Jeep with minimal offroad, you would probably want something like the TF 3" coil.

The higher end lifts tend to be more geared for articulation and maximum offroad performance.

I'm sure other Jeepers on here will give further insight.

 

I forgot, Since you don't wheel it, I don't think you need to spend 2k on a lift ..... I no northridge4x4.com has a deal on the OME lift including front and rear JKS trackbar for around 900$, free shipping and amazing service ..... The teraflex is around the same I think... I now Have OME and it rides better than stock and a million times better than then cheap lift I first bought...

Also if you go too high you will need control arms, so a lot more $$$$$$$$

 

Re-Read (and understand) this one in the FAQ's:
"Q: What is Caster? How much do I need?"


These are also good to re-read:
Q: What are all the components that I will need with a 3" lift?
Q: What are all the components that I will need with a 4" lift?
-Pay attention to the DriveShaft cautions!!
(you will want a set of front adj control arms with a front shaft, rear upper ca's with a rear shaft)

Get an idea of what each of the suggested components does. Decide which 'you' need, which you can wait and add later, and which you can live without. They all have a function, so look at any of the cheap, 'incomplete' kits to see what they are missing - and why.

My suggestion: At 3+ inches, you will want some way to adjust your caster. (In order of preference - Adj ca's, new longer/shorter fixed arms, cam bolts. - A single set of front adj ca's is all you need to start with)
Brake lines or extension brackets can be added at any time.
Front bumpstops should be added with the lift.
Rear bumpstops can be added any time.
Rear trackbar bracket or new adjustable. Get with the lift.
Front trackbar bracket or adjustable. Add when you get around to it. (assuming having the axle off-center does not cause handling/rubbing issues)

 

Agreed.

Lack of caster, whether you understand it or not, will be the first thing you
notice after a lift.

 

Very understandable, Even a seasoned mechanic has questions when dealing with an unfamiliar vehicle.
Short answer is no. The more parts are to give more articulation and solve some issues that arise when you lift past a certain height. If all you do is drive down a road or trail then they are not needed.

You get what you pay for, just make sure you are comparing apples to apples.

Everything is “upgradeable”. A lot of people buy a “kit” lift to get started and then add to it components of that brand or another brand later when they see they have a need. My advice is to know exactly what each component is for before you make a purchase. You are less likely to waste money or have buyer’s remorse that way.