[gracemely]

I've been reading the numerous forums (here and elsewhere) about lifts in an attempt to determine the most appropriate lift for my YJ. After installing new tires/wheels, I took some coworkers to lunch and we discovered that with the added weight in the back the tires rubbed during turns. I went home and ran up a standard curb to see that the tires were indeed pressed against the fender. The options considered are SOA, Shackle, BL and perhaps others but some I've determined to be out of the question.

So now we're looking for your opinions on lifts based on the following information:

- It's a daily driver (50% 30mph, 50% 60mph)
- It transports a 5 year old daily
- I'm running 30" GY Duratracs (reason for lift)
- It's seen loads of restoration so body modifications are not really an option
- I'm on a budget of no more than $200
- It does not see many trails but does see snow/ice driving (volunteer taxi at the hospital)

Thanks for your feedback!

G

 

[MikeMTJ]

Well, SOA will be the cheapest if you can do the work yourself. Only problem is, that's also the largest lift. I hate body lifts for various reasons. They look bad, and they are a pain in the butt if you get in a wreck.

I say unless you're play on offroading, just trim your flares. I know body modification isn't an option, but it's not really a huge mod. Very minor, and it still looks stock.
http://www.wranglerforum.com/f8/yj-fender-flare-trimming-60106.html


$200 won't get you really anything in terms of a suspension lift.

Also, how many miles are on your jeep? The springs might be sagging.

 

[Ibuildembig]

x2 ^^, but 200 might get you a set of shackels

 

[4Jeepn]

Soa done right is close 1,000. For a $200 budget. I would consider the following:

1. Small schackle lift 1"
2. Move to TJ flares

Also in the picture it the tire hitting the plastic flare or the metal fender?

 

[Ibuildembig]

1000? really? I have done my last 3 for 470.00-490.00 each depending on steel prices.

 

[4Jeepn]

1000? really? I have done my last 3 for 470.00-490.00 each depending on steel prices.

That's you doing it though. Figure shop fee's etc maybe new springs, etc etc.. adds up for non do it yourself type.

 

[Ibuildembig]

Yes I know, but most people on here that ask about SOA's wanna do it themselves.

 

[gracemely]

Also, how many miles are on your jeep? The springs might be sagging.

Relatively few. Only 109,000.

 

[gracemely]

Also in the picture it the tire hitting the plastic flare or the metal fender?

Just the plastic flare.

 

[Norituck]

I would probably just trim the plastic flare.

 

[MikeMTJ]

Yeah, trimming is probably your best bet.

Suspension Lift Kits, Body Lifts, Leveling Kit, 4x4, Jeep, Chevy, Dodge, Ford, Off-road Truck

cheapest in the business of suspension^^

 

[gracemely]

I think what I'll do is go with Currie Shackles now, begin saving for replacement leaf springs. and inspect the body mount bolts to gauge the feasibility of a 1" BL.

Thanks for all the replies! I'll let you know how it goes.

 

[gracemely]

Correction: We're looking to sell the tires and wheels. I'll post them in the For Sale thread. :doh:

 

[SandyMushYJ]

Correction: We're looking to sell the tires and wheels. I'll post them in the For Sale thread. :doh:

Whoa! What happened?

 

[gracemely]

Whoa! What happened?

We're looking at finances right now. Since both my wife and I want to do the full suspension lift, we're just going to have to take our time. It's a shame because I really like these tires.

 

[SandyMushYJ]

Gotcha. I've been looking at lifts myself, and I'm surprised at how much they cost. I guess it's because they have all new springs instead of front springs and lift blocks like most straight axle lifts. I'll look for your wheels/tires in the classifieds. Good luck.