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Novice installing a lift and tools?

1K views 17 replies 14 participants last post by  Flint_Holbrook 
#1 ·
I am in the process of saving up funds and selecting a lift for my '13 JKU. I am leaning towards the Rock Krawler 2.5 Flex kit.

I am a little new to working on my own vehicle, but would love to learn. Do you all think it would be a bad idea for someone with little knowledge but somewhat mechanically inclined to try to install this lift?

Also, If I were to do this myself, are there any special tools I would need. I've got basic hand tools (wrenches, sockets, torque wrench 20-150 lbs click type, drill, etc.). No air tools. I know I would have to get some jack stands and a floor jack. Anything else I would need to get?

I can get a 3 ton floor jack that goes up to 18" for about $89 and some 3 ton jack stands that go up to 16.5" for about $25/pair. Would these be tall enough?

Thanks a bunch!
 
#3 ·
You can absolutely do it yourself!

I just installed a 2.5" teraflex lift a few weeks ago by myself. Other than installing front and rear bumpers and side rails, this was the first major Jeep project I undertook.
It took WAY longer than expected (days) but it was a great experience, fun and educational.

I would recommend getting an electric impact wrench. Harbor freight sells em for $50.
You'll be happy you did. Makes taking the bolts out fast and easy.

This forum is a great resource, the people on here are super super helpful!!

Good luck!!
 
#9 ·
Go for it. But you'll have a much easier time and it will be a lot more fun if you enlist some local Jeepers to jump in and help you out. It seems like a huge deal, but if you take your time and follow the instructions, it's really a pretty easy modification to make.
 
#11 ·
I did the RK 2.5" X-Factor in my driveway with nothing but hand tools. I bought a hi-lift floor jack at harbor freight for $85 and a couple of 6 ton jack stands. I reckon the difference is that the 6 ton extend higher than 3 ton jack stands. Took me two days to do by myself. Even with the 6 ton stands I had to set them on railroad ties to get the frame high enough and axle low enough to be able to slip the coils out and in. I'd suggest a $40 harbor freight electric impact wrench.
 
#16 ·
The replies already stated that the 6 tons usually allows for more lift. For tire rotations and an oil change, 3 tons would be fine. But personally, I prefer the 6 tons when laying under the Jeep trying to break loose those control arm bolts and all the pushing and pulling that may go on. I use 6 tons and still throw the wheels under the frame. Overly cautions, but that's fine by me.
 
#18 ·
I suggest you gain access to a torque wrench. Half inch drive will work fine. If you can get access to one in 3/8 and one in 1/2 it will be helpful. You will need a 16mm gear wrench with a flexible head, 18 mm scoket, 21mm socket, 15mm scoket, a 13/16th socket, 3/4 socket, 10mm socket, crescent wrench, Open and boxed end wrench's matching the socket sizes, a medium sized pry bar or crow bar, line up pin's, 2 in, 4 in and 6 inch ratchet extensions, good breaker bar (Snap on if you have it), a pipe extender (just in case you need a little more lever-arm to create a larger moment force).

I suggest a good strong, willing 18 or 19 year old for lifting and torquing assistance.
 
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