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To lift or not to lift?

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Old 07-13-2012, 12:16 AM
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Default To lift or not to lift?

I have a 99 XJ running 30x9.5, just replaced rear shocks, I need new leaf springs? Yes? It's 2WD so no need to lift it I don't think. Will OEM leaf springs bring it back up? Anyone suggest a good aftermarket spring? Help!
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Old 07-13-2012, 12:38 AM
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leaf springs should have a not
I would get a pair of leaf, those look worn out.
A good driver with a good vehicle & tires in RWD can go many places... Get a selectable locker and go even more places!
Old 07-13-2012, 12:39 AM
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Let it rise. I'd lift it, its not that much more to put a decent lift. Not an excessive lift, but maybe a 2-3" lift.
Old 07-13-2012, 12:41 AM
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Originally Posted by adamstatonsmith
I have a 99 XJ running 30x9.5, just replaced rear shocks, I need new leaf springs? Yes? It's 2WD so no need to lift it I don't think. Will OEM leaf springs bring it back up? Anyone suggest a good aftermarket spring? Help!
The OEM leafs are pretty dang saggy even new, you might think about adding longer shackles to bring it up some, they are pretty cheep and will give you a good inch or two depending on the brand and size. Also if you want to level it out you can get front coil spacers to go along. You could do it all under 100$ New leafs would cost you more than that.... It all depends on what you are using it for. A good way to check if your leafs are actually shot or not would be to unbolt your stock shackle and see if the leaf springs back up towards the unibody or sags down, because if they sag down you for sure want new leafs.
Just my word of advice.
Old 07-13-2012, 12:48 AM
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Typical. OEM leaf springs will restore it to stock height....for a couple of years. They're a bit of a compromise in that they ride a little softer but sag quickly. The best ride quality in a leaf spring is when it's nearly flat, not curved. Look under a Chrysler minivan, you'll see what I mean...
The sag is pretty harmless unless your tires (or rear shackes) are hitting.

Last edited by Radi; 07-13-2012 at 12:50 AM.
Old 07-13-2012, 12:53 AM
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Originally Posted by Bbasso
A good driver with a good vehicle & tires in RWD can go many places... Get a selectable locker and go even more places!
Well said evn though my xj is 4x4 i would wait untill i was in desperate need of traction to switch it in.
Old 07-13-2012, 12:55 AM
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Originally Posted by Domeskii
Well said evn though my xj is 4x4 i would wait untill i was in desperate need of traction to switch it in.
I wouldn't spend the money putting a locker on a 2WD. If you're going to lift, go small IMO. This is money better saved for a 4x4 conversion, or stock 4x4. Just my opinion though.
Old 07-13-2012, 12:59 AM
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Originally Posted by KJamesJR
I wouldn't spend the money putting a locker on a 2WD. If you're going to lift, go small IMO. This is money better saved for a 4x4 conversion, or stock 4x4. Just my opinion though.
X2, agree

Last edited by NorCalJeep; 07-13-2012 at 01:01 AM.
Old 07-13-2012, 01:10 AM
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Thanks All! Would a pair of shackles and springs picked from the yard get me by? I am rubbing right now... And am a bit low on dough...
Old 07-13-2012, 01:14 AM
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that would probably be a band-aid fix. Get a new leaf pack.
Old 07-13-2012, 01:16 AM
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Originally Posted by adamstatonsmith
Thanks All! Would a pair of shackles and springs picked from the yard get me by? I am rubbing right now... And am a bit low on dough...
I would definitely start with a pair of used springs. You might be able to get away by adding just another leaf to them while you have them out. Depends on what you want to do with it, or how long you'll be keeping it.
Old 07-13-2012, 01:18 AM
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Some have had luck with those leaf spring helpers @ the auto parts places for about $40
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/fix...k-susp-131271/

Might be an cheap, quick short term idea (band aid) until you decide on a perm. fix.
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