I've got a 1996 xj 2 door sport and I am looking at a 3" kit. The kit I am looking at comes with the drop bracket for the track bar but does not come with longer lower control arms. For three inches do I need the longer arms? I am planning on running 31x10.50x15s on 10 inch rims.

 

You don't necessarily "need" them. How often are you going to wheel it? If your not gonna wheel much you should be fine.

 

No, not needed, but would be desired. Adjustable trackbar would be more usefull. Longer or adjustable control arms will help with caster and pinion issues. 10" rim is a little wide for a 31" tire though.

 

8 inch rim
4 inch backspacing

for a true 3 inch I would get adjustable control arms, sye not needed

 

I agree on the 10" rims but they were a deal I just couldn't pass up. I wheel as often as possible but it's only about 20% of the trucks use. I live in the land of cornfields so not much rock crawlin just mud. Without the extended arms will the Caster be off a lot? At what point do you add a drop pitman arm? I know 3" isn't much but I don't know what she'll take.
This is my first xj lift. everything else has been cj's and trucks.

 

Pythagorus could tell you how much your castor will be off.

u would just have to make 1 measurement. (we already know that ur going up 3inches)

 

You will pop the bead if you use the 10" rim and 31's off-road.
Basic rule 2-3" is a basic lift. Rear end, leaf sprung, works same as your CJ's.
For the front Stock components will be OK, except shocks. You will still be able to adjust the caster, using the stock shim method. Caster will be off some, but each Jeep is different as to how much. Most shops will NOT adjust the caster, plan to do DIY alignment. Axel will shift over a little, 3/4"@3", and you will want to get a adjustable Trackbar at some point.
Drop pitman arm not needed till 5"+.