I didn't want to hijack the previous thread on this subject but I see that Rancho is running this promo again through the end of August. I've installed a bunch of different brand lift kits over the years so I'd like to know how this compares to other brands in ride and handling. I've used most all of them at one time or another, & I usually bought them based on best overall value. Best ride of course was stock followed closly by Teraflex. On a 1 to 10 scale with 10 being the best and 1 being the worst how do you rank this kit for ride and handling?

Has anyone done a side by side comparison of all the major kits out there to rank such things as ride, handling, quality, longevity, ease of installation, price, problems caused by installation or extras required to keep it safe, etc..

I've read through the Rancho installation instructions & I really like the track bar brackets utilizing the strength of the frame rather than the weak brackets on the axle housing. The suggested minor welding doesn't bother me since I've done extensive modification work in the past on the old Jeepster when I had it.
I'm intrigued by the control arm brackets as a different design, but not sold on them. In reality how much further down do they extend below the frame in comparison the the control arm brackets on a TJ or the spring hangers on a YJ? I've seen some complaints about hanging up on these, could a minor design change to incorporate a "skid plate" into these brackets be the answer?

Another question I have is tire clearence, I know I have to change the stock rims out to somethign with less backspacing, cause I don't like the spacer idea, but in reality why do all these manufacturers built these based on 17 or 18 inch rims? Mine came with factory 16 inch rims. So long as you have the correct backspacing for tire clearance what does it matter what size rim you use? Is this just a "conspiracy" between the lift, wheel, & tire manufacturers to sell product? Or am I missing something here? Personally I don't want any 18's as the tires selection is very limited and considerably higher in price for the same size vs smaller rims. I can find a way to replace the rims alone to install the kit, and keep my 285's for now, but not the extra expence of larger rims, and new tires, at the same time. Just going from 16's to 17's in the same rims usually results in an additional $100 as does the same jump in tires.

Times are tough right now so if I have to spend an extra 2K-3K for tires and wheels then I probably won't spend anythign on a lift kit. I think it's time for a reality check with the manufacturers; sell your product designed economically overall for the consumer and stay in business, or sell yours + push everyone else's to go with it and maybe not stay in business. I noticed last night that Rubicon Express is closed for "restructuring", I take that to be some sort of bankruptcy or buy out.


What are everyone here's thoughts on this kit vs. other comparable kits in the same price range? With rebate this kit can be bought for a net value about the same as most BB or 2-1/2" basic spring kits. I don't mind spending a little more for the better value but I can't afford the over priced long arms kits. Wife #3, hey at least I change Jeeps more often than wives , can't take the rough ride due to an old neck injury so highway ride quality is very important. I don't four wheel like I did 10 years ago so I can drop the bumpstops for a little more flex. Because of the neck injury wife can't go 4 wheelin' and her idea of camping is the Hilton so that leaves the 4 wheeling to me and my daughter who grew up in a carseat on the trails. (I just have to fight her for the keys now, I tried to raise her right. .)

 

I just installed the rancho 4" sport with 9000xl shocks. Took my time and got the kit installed in 8 hours. Control arm brackets are real solid. Rides softer than stock and better in my opinion. Got.the shocks set to 0 using the myride controller. Handling is very good same as stock just a little more roll on the covering but very stable. I got the lift for $570 and the shocks for $73 each . Can't believe I'm getting $500 rebate. Running 33" tires on 15" rims. Wasn't planning on going 4" but what a deal. Overall very happy with it. Sorry haven't riden any other lifted jk's to compare. I didn't but would definitely recommend welding the track bar bracket. And the rear sway bar frame spacers crush when you tighten them so solid or collars would be the only change I would recommend.