Hey everyone, here is the scenario.
98 TJ 2.5L with standard OEM suspension and 2.5 bushing lift. I swapped in a 97 Vortec V8 which added a touch over 200lbs to the front over the inline 4 cyl. I also plan on upgrading the front bumper probably and winch capabilities. Right now there is too much sag and front OEM springs are too weak to handle the extra weight. Instead of bagging or increasing the bushing which is just compensating for weak springs I plan on getting new springs. I am looking at Rusty's 3" springs as they seem very good, from reviews, for the price. The question I have is should I go a standard spring which has a spring rate of 150 or their HD spring which is 180. The OEM spec on mine I beleive is 120 and who knows how worn out. I have no problem with overkill but sometimes too much is not a good thing.
Opinions?
Thank you
If you want to keep it stock height to match your rear stock 2.5L springs I would try installing a pair of springs in from a 07 or newer 4 door. Those springs give the factory ride of a jeep but give the Tjs a 2" lift and with the added weight of your v8, winch and offroad bumper the stock 4dr JK springs should sit right about the height of your stock rear 2.5 springs. However if the front end sits higher than the stock rear springs you can try TJ springs from a 4.0L for about an inch lift in the rear.
V8 ZJ springs are a direct bolt on, the JK springs will require a little work but not much.
I would go to your local take-a-part and find some v8 ZJ springs that look nice and try that out before anything.
I picked up a pair for $16
The front JK springs are a direct bolt in as well. If you go this route, make sure you get the 18s or 19s. They can be found real cheap if you know someone with a JK that they lifted and still have the take offs.
ZJ V8 coils would allow me my 2" lift without my coil spacers? That would be worth doing if I can scrounge them. I assume both 5.2L V8 and 5.9L V8 in the ZJ were the same coil?
junkyard springs are cheap, so if they don't do exactly what you want, you're not out much. alternatively, OME 934's (V8 ZJ lift springs) would certainly provide more than 2" of lift with your setup
Ok, Thanks everyone, found two ZJ 5.2L GC's at the local pull a part for $12 each. So I will go that route and see if I leave my coil spacers in or take them out depending on how it sits after install. How do I tell if either of the G.C.s with the V8 has the "upcountry" shock package?
Well I finally got around to installing the ZJ coils on my TJ and true to the advice from everyone it brought my front end up perfectly!!! Thank you everyone!!!!!!
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