I just had the TF 2.5” lift with shocks (kit 1251002) installed on my 2012 JK 2 door Sport. In the documentation I noticed that they require “wheel spacers when using OE wheels”. I have a few questions: #1 Why ? #2- I have OE – ( P255/75R17 ) tires on it. Does this refer only to those with larger tires or these tires also. It is not clear. I plan on getting new wheels and tires (33’s) within about 6 months. I may go to 35’s but not sure yet.

 

I bought the leveling from TF and never needed them for OE wheels. If you put larger tires on your OE wheels then yes you will need spacers. You can also buy wheels with back spacing built in to avoid using spacers.

 

At full droop the rear sway link might hit the inside of the oem wheel because of the deep backspacing. I installed my lift on a lift and saw this first hand.

However, you would have to be doing a pretty extreme off road flex for that to happen, so it's not anything to worry about, but it can happen.

 

I think they need to say this because often people buy 2.5" lifts with the intention to run 35" tires. Then they throw the tires on stock wheels, and rub - then complain the lift doesn't support 35" tires. You'd think it is common sense to factor this in, but lift companies need a CYA built in so people don't get too upset.

 

X2 the clearance is very close just keep an eye on it.

 

OE wheels don't have enough back spacing to prevent from rubbing. You're changing the height geometry of your jeep through the suspension. Your tires will rub on your suspension components while turning without proper BS. You need enough back spacing (e.g 4.5") to prevent this from happening. Spacers are fairly cheap if you plan on running the OE wheels for a while.

 

This is correct about the rear sway bar link hitting the inside of the OEM wheel, BUT it will be close at all times, not just at full flex. The rear link is attached to the rear axle, therefore its position in relation to the rear wheel remains pretty much constant. It will swing rearward as you flex, but it will always be too close to the wheel and/or tire. Here is a thread that answers every question you could ever come up with about the TF 2.5" lift. It's quite lengthy, but is a very valuable reference.

https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/jk-w...ng-lift-51483/

Also, make sure you grind off the extra bolt on the inside of the rear upper sway bar links. They have a tendency to get caught up on the rear hard brake lines when flexing.

 

I'm running the 2.5" on stock wheels, with 285's. No rubbing on a daily driver/moderate off roading.

 

Besides the reasons mentioned above, it will also give the Jeep a wider stance, which will make it more stable. Definitely a good thing on lifted vehicles.

 

Great information. I knew I can count on excellent feedback from all of you. Now the next question: do you recommend a certain size or a certain manufacture or ones to stay away from? I am concerned about safety more than anything.