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Do I need new driveshafts for 2.5” suspension lift?

2K views 10 replies 7 participants last post by  Incommando 
#1 ·
I have been looking at a 2.5” lift for my 1991 YJ. A fairly straightforward install and have seen kits in the $500 range which seems like a pretty good value. What other unexpected costs might I run into? The jeep is currently stock and has never been modified. Thanks for your input
 
#2 ·
no you dont need new driveshafts but buy a good lift kit do not buy rough country
 
#3 ·
With YJ spring lifts, you get what you pay for. If you buy a lift based on price, I expect you'll be disappointed. The cheaper springs seem to sag sooner than the more expensive springs and I've read reports of the cheaper springs breaking.

There are several quality kits on the market. If I was going to do a spring lift, I'd go with the Rubicon Express kit. It's complete with everything you need. For me, the $300.00 difference in price is money spent for comfort and peace of mind.
Some posters might recommend buying only the components that you actually need for your particular project. Both ways are equally advised. Put a pencil to the costs both ways and then make a decision.

The one thing I'd not use from the RE kit is the brake line extenders. I'd buy a set of braided stainless brake hoses. The braided hoses are easier to install and will replace the old rubber hoses.

With a 2 1/2" lift kit, you shouldn't need a slip yoke eliminator with a new driveshaft. You may or may not need a transfer case drop or a motor mount lift.
Install the lift kit and drive the Jeep. If you get driveline vibrations, post again with any questions.

What size tires are you running or plan on running. If you run 31" tires as a daily driver and/or easy trails, a 1 1/2" body lift might give you the clearance you need at a great savings.

Good Luck, L.M.
 
#4 ·
As above... no you don't and DON'T buy rough country...
Rubicon express, bds, or ome.
 
#5 ·
x2 all above, I replaced my rancho springs with RE and couldn't be happier, I did keep my Rancho shocks only because I like the ride and they were relatively new. Good Luck
 
#6 ·
Thanks all for the input. I like a good value but I also don't mind spending what's needed to do something right the first time. I didn't know I could get a 1.5" lift. I may well go that route and use the braided stainless lines. I'm currently only running 275's and may go to 30's or 31's next time I need tires. I'm really looking to get the proportions right. Even with the slightly bigger than stock tires, with the stock suspension, it looks just a little "short" relative to the Jeep's bulk.
 
#7 ·
Which lift kit are you looking at?

Attached are pics of what your angles will look like with a 2 1/2" lift.

BEFORE and AFTER TC drop.

I had no vibes before I did the TC Drop but i did not like those angles.

Oh, have a couple cans of PB Blaster, a very strong impact and a positive attitude for this project! Good luck!
 

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#8 ·
You don't need to change brake hoses for such a small lift
 
#9 ·
You could even just go with 1.25 inch body lift. Would be considerably cheaper then a suspension lift.
 
#10 ·
The smallest spring lift that I'm aware of is a 2 1/2" lift. If your old springs have sagged (pretty likely) a 2 1/2 " kit might give over 2 1/2" of lift.
My old springs were flat (sagged pretty bad) and I installed stock height heavy duty springs. I gained at least an inch of lift simply with new springs.

A 1 1/2" body lift increases the distance between the frame and the tub. That gives a bit more clearance for slightly larger tires. A quality spring lift is around $700.00. A body lift is around $125.00. The benefit of a body lift is that you don't change your suspension and have to deal with the related issues that pop up with any deviation from stock.
I went with a 2" body lift. I should have gone with the 1 1/2" BL.

Read plenty of posts so that you can decide on how you plan on using your Jeep and don't be shy about asking questions. How you plan on using your Jeep is the second biggest factor in determining the mods you will do. The first factor is your budget. Let us know what you plan on doing and someone here will give you the pointers on how to make whatever mod you choose to do easier.

Good Luck, L.M.
 
#11 · (Edited)
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