DIY Lift

[minisoda]

I thought it would be relatively simple to install a lift on the JL, but was scared off a bit after watching a youtube video on it today. I'm pretty good mechanically, but have never installed a lift in the past. 35s and a lift will be one of the first mods on the Sport I just purchased... should I just find an auto shop and take it in or give it a whirl?

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[MarkY3130]

You’ll have to decide that, but which lift are you doing? People here could tell you which parts will be the toughest if they know that.

Many here have installed lifts ourselves and can give you info to help you decide

 

[minisoda]

Just talked to a local shop that wanted $5,800 for wheels, tires and a 3.5" lift. That felt a little high, but I also want to make sure it gets done right.

He said that the 35s would require a 3.5" lift, so guess I'm looking for something in that range. Seems like I should be able to get all of the parts for $4k or less....?

 

[FirecrackerRedJLU]

Just talked to a local shop that wanted $5,800 for wheels, tires and a 3.5" lift. That felt a little high, but I also want to make sure it gets done right.

He said that the 35s would require a 3.5" lift, so guess I'm looking for something in that range. Seems like I should be able to get all of the parts for $4k or less....?

I know for a fact with just teraflex "2'" spacers on the sports can easily fit 35s with NO issues.

 

[minisoda]

Just watched a video on extremeterrain.com that clearly showed you can run without ANY lift with a 17" wheel and 35 x 12.5 tire. Might have some rubbing issues, so I'm thinking a nice 2.5" lift would be great. How much higher is the stock Rubicon suspension?

 

[FirecrackerRedJLU]

Just watched a video on extremeterrain.com that clearly showed you can run without ANY lift with a 17" wheel and 35 x 12.5 tire. Might have some rubbing issues, so I'm thinking a nice 2.5" lift would be great. How much higher is the stock Rubicon suspension?

slightly higher but not by much (I don't have exact measurement) however its not anything like 2+ or anything the springs are just slightly taller. some rubicons just look even taller when they have the high cut fender flares for clearance.

 

[minisoda]

Man - I just watched a lift installation video on extreme terrain... I can definitely take this project on. Probably take me a half day, but shouldn't be a problem!

 

[jlewissystem]

Just do it! Plenty of info out there. Price is subjective to parts, shop and locale. My lift/tires/wheels were around that, but I found discounts. I would just plan on not having your Jeep for the weekend and plan on an alignment, to be safe.

 

[quietpeen]

I was going to say what video did you watch that scared you? Installing a lift is not hard, but I’m going to say what ever time you have figured it would take you to do the lift at least double that - especially if you are doing it alone.

 

[Jerrybizzle]

You say you’re fairly mechanically inclined? You should be fine. I installed my rough country spacer lift and then my mopar lift on my own. Needed an extra set of hands for the round front bump stop extensions but besides that just take your time and watch the videos. The spacer lift was my first ever install. If you have an impact that will speed things up but not necessary. You will need a decent jack and jack stands but if you have that stuff you’ll be alright. Set aside a full day in case anything gives you a hard time.

 

[Jerrybizzle]

And cost shouldn’t be that high unless they were quoting only the best parts and expensive wheels and tires. What do you use the Jeep for? Do you like the current ride? If you just want it for the look, the spacer lifts aren’t bad. If you want a full lift they are a bit more but include a lot more.
My lift is the mopar lift ($1100) plus $200 for track bar corrections. (Rough country front and super lift rear)
17 inch wheels were $500 for 5 (gfx from discount tire)
37s were $1250 for 5. (Mastercraft mxt)
$3050 for lift wheels and tires for me. I try to find good deals so you could easily spend more if you want say fuel wheels or nitto tires.

 

[Steveo]

I was going to say what video did you watch that scared you? Installing a lift is not hard, but I’m going to say what ever time you have figured it would take you to do the lift at least double that - especially if you are doing it alone.

 

[Steveo]

Yeah, you're looking at at least a day doing it by yourself. The torquing alone is very time consuming, and good luck with those 190 ft. lb. control arm bolts.

 

[quietpeen]

Yeah, you're looking at at least a day doing it by yourself. The torquing alone is very time consuming, and good luck with those 190 ft. lb. control arm bolts.

That is without a doubt the worst part lol

 

[Jerrybizzle]

That is without a doubt the worst part lol

Impact and a 24mm wrench. Gets the job done. I bought an $80 impact between doing my first and second lifts and that was money well spent.

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