Tire size has nothing to do with a T case drop. The amout of lift does. Usuallly 3" to 4" of lift is all you can go without a SYE. But all Jeeps are different.

 

^^^I know tire size has nothing to do with it. If I went with the RC 4.5 would I have to get the sye and cv driveshaft?

 

Transfer case drops are just a band-aide anyway. If you do the lift and don't get any vibrations then you need nothing. But if you get vibrations then you need a SYE not a TC drop. Remember that you did the lift for clearance not to have obsticles hanging down further like a TC drop would do. You are negating the lift with a part being lowered or dropped. Each XJ is different and which ever lift you use will determine nothing about needing or not needing a SYE and associated driveshaft. Try your selected lift and then decide about the need for SYE and driveshaft.
OK off my soapbox now!!!

 

You more than likely will need the sye. I have a 2000 xj and lifted it 2.5" and got vibes badly. My t-case drop just barely reduces them. They are still there if i accelerate. I got the PORC sye kit for $180 and using a xj front driveshaft so i only spent $250 for everything. Not too bad.

 

It depends on the year. Mud, your year of Cherokee came with the low pinon Dana 30. Unles you have switched it out. If his is an older model the angle will be less due to the high pinon design they used then. I have a 6" lift with T.C. drop and no vibes. I plan on upgrading to a S.Y.E. for strength, just don't have the funds yet!! A plague is sweeping Jeep Country, Lofunditis!!!! Quickly, run for the hills!!!

 

he has a 2000 xj, according to his sig so that gives him a low pinion just like mine.

http://www.performanceoffroadcenter....9a2dbb1d9f3799

That's the kit i used. It's the cheapest you will find i believe. Saved me some $$ and got the shaft on the for sale forum for cheap.

 

Noted, my bad!!