Long arm versus short arm? Comparission
Thread Starter
JK Newbie
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 10
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From: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Long arm versus short arm? Comparission
know this is somewhat of a dumb question I'm looking to put a lift kit on my 07 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and have narrowed it down between a 4" Rancho Long Arm System and a 4" Rancho Crawler System. They say that the long arm system gives you more articulation but don't know what the benefits and pros and cons of each set up. I would like to just stay rancho because I can afford it and it seems to be good products plus i can get it with free shipping and no brokerage fees (cause I live and Canada and we get raped on parts), if someone could help its much appreciated because this my first vehicle and want to make the best of my set-up. If it helps this is my DD but do one weekends go trail riding, muddling, snow trails and some crawling (hoping to do more with the lift kit and tires).
JK Junkie
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 2,482
Likes: 1
From: Denver, CO
First, do t buy cheap. Second, build it for intended use. Long arm isn't necessary for most of what you stated you are doing. Go short arm if you aren't crawling that often. I'm on Colorado and don't have or need a long arm, yet.
JK Super Freak
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 1,326
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From: Keystone Heights
https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/modi...-lifts-288269/
Lots of info here but I agree a short arm kit is probably where you need to start.
Lots of info here but I agree a short arm kit is probably where you need to start.
JK Junkie
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 3,440
Likes: 0
From: CT
First, a long arm doesn't necessarily give you more flex.
A good Custom long arm allow the geometry to be changed. Instant centers, Anti squat, anti dive, etc. Most 5 links kits out there are limited to what the manufacture puts you at. With longer arms, there's less axle steer and a better ride on/off road (flatter angles)
Short/mid arms will allow wheelbase, caster and pinion angle adjustments. Me .. If I were to go long arm. It would have to be custom and done by somebody that knows what they're doing. I know Rancho uses a radius arm up front (which brings debate) and a unique linked rear? Not commonly run so I dont see any opinions on it.
I agree with the above.. A good quality short/mid arm with quality joints is more then what most will need.
My .02
2007 Rubicon /2 door/6 speed
A good Custom long arm allow the geometry to be changed. Instant centers, Anti squat, anti dive, etc. Most 5 links kits out there are limited to what the manufacture puts you at. With longer arms, there's less axle steer and a better ride on/off road (flatter angles)
Short/mid arms will allow wheelbase, caster and pinion angle adjustments. Me .. If I were to go long arm. It would have to be custom and done by somebody that knows what they're doing. I know Rancho uses a radius arm up front (which brings debate) and a unique linked rear? Not commonly run so I dont see any opinions on it.
I agree with the above.. A good quality short/mid arm with quality joints is more then what most will need.
My .02
2007 Rubicon /2 door/6 speed
