i am getting a 3" rc lift fot my xj i was going to install the lift myself ,just wanting to know if i can do it without a spring compressor for the front coils ,thanks

 

good question

 

the first time i did it i used rachet straps, very dangerous

I recommend renting a spring compressor from local parts store

 

If you can lower your axle enough or even onto the ground, and still hold the body up, you can get it in there. It'll be tight, might even smash your pinky finger like it did mine, but i got it. 4" lift kit too. Don't be dumb and use straps, that's a death wish..

 

rachet straps.. thats something i would do..lol, i think im going to rent a compressor ....thanks

 

You don't need a spring compressor. I've done several xj lifts and never once did I waste the money on renting one. Disconnect the brake line from the unibody, place a jack under the opposite knuckle of the side you are working on, jack it up, apply small pressure on rotor with foot and you will be able to remove the spring easily. I think I have a detailed write up here someplace. Also I think Rockliz Has a nice write up too.

 

When we installed my 3 inch coils we couldnt get the axle to drop far enough had no coil spring compressers we used rachet straps. Not any more dangerous than coil spring compressers matter of fact worked pretty good. Every jeep is different as they say.

 

hmm.... ratchet straps good/bad idea ill have to try it!!

 

guess it depends on how much longer the coils are, but when i installed my 3.5" springs i just jacked up the opposite side and was able to pull out the old ones and slide in the new ones no problem. i did remove the track bar from the frame because i was replacing it anyway

 

Just be sure u don't twist the head off the bolt that holds the track bar on the axle its a pain to replace and not a lot or room to work with.. I just put a 2" lift on my 2000xj myself if I had to do it over agin id just pay 2 have it done

 

you can "rent" spring compressors from Oreillys auto or Napa. It is a small fee that you get back when you return the compressor so FREE. my advice is get a set and if you need them you have them and if you dont then you just return them either way.

 

I'll second that. I rented with the same thing in mind and ended up using em. My account was credited back the deposit money the next day.

 

i didnt need a spring compressor to get my 5.5" coils in. just jack the oppositte side of the axle up, and if thats not high enough then jack the body up

 

thanks for everyones input ,man this is going to help me out tremendously...this site rocks

 

it is a great sight... too bad your a jets fan though