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rear spring sag

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Old 05-20-2012, 06:57 PM
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Default rear spring sag

I have some rear spring sag, the same that I see on other XJ's running around here. The problem is that I tow a small boat plus load up camping gear and things can get real low. Dont want to change out the springs at the moment but could use some suggestions and how to help them along for the near term.

Something like air shocks or bolt on air suspension? Helper springs?

Larry S.
Old 05-20-2012, 07:01 PM
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I imagine you could just throw on a helper spring, which would help for a while until that one wears out, and it will do so quick because the entire load will be on that one leaf. But I'm sure everyone and their brother on here is going to tell you to throw some new leafs in, and maybe some new shocks. If you tow that boat often I'd consider going with some heavy duty leafs.
Old 05-20-2012, 07:21 PM
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I had some gangsta sag for a long time, no towing of anything except a few friends and their stuff after school and what not. It progressively got worse and I had to put new leafs in. With your needs, heavy duty leafs with an inch or so of lift might be a good idea. I have stock suspension right now and the rancho leafs from quadratec did great. Also, if you plan on lifting your Jeep in the future, id do the lift now instead of buying leafs now then a lift later.
Old 05-20-2012, 07:22 PM
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Amazon.com: Monroe 58594 Sensa-Trac Load Adjusting Shock Absorber: Automotive Amazon.com: Monroe 58594 Sensa-Trac Load Adjusting Shock Absorber: Automotive
Old 05-20-2012, 08:01 PM
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I tow a boat with mine as well and it's loaded up with tools when it isn't towing.
I've researched the snot out of the subject and it looks like the only real repair is to replace the springs. Anything else is going to give you handling issues, especially under load.

Somebody sent me this link:
http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f11/j...-codes-644388/
It explains your options on leafs.
You should probably replace the bushings on the rear sway bar at the same time.

It's like the guy at the marina says:
"Boats is like women, you want to get them wet, it's going to cost you money."
Old 05-20-2012, 08:25 PM
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I tow a boat with mine too and decided to put on Air Lifts that look like these. Only problem with them is I have to add air every month because their push on connectors leak. Did not find a listing on their site,I have had mine for 2 yrs now. I you want I might be able to find the paper work to find the part number.

Old 05-20-2012, 09:02 PM
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I suspect that airlift package is going to cost more then a set of UpCountry springs (LT's) rated for 750 lb.
...and the leaf springs don't ever leak.
Old 05-20-2012, 09:08 PM
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I replaced my rear springs on my 95 XJ last year. Made a huge difference in handling. Also got rid of drive line vibration.
Old 05-20-2012, 09:10 PM
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Maybe a bastard pack. If there's gear/weight in it regularly it will prob ride ok. Otherwise new leaf packs and a 2" AAL and 1-2" spacers for front? Idk..
Old 05-20-2012, 10:12 PM
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Originally Posted by Marcucco
I suspect that airlift package is going to cost more then a set of UpCountry springs (LT's) rated for 750 lb.
...and the leaf springs don't ever leak.
No but they are a compromise, you spring it to carry say 300 lbs and you add more weight your sagging again,I just have to add more air. Take out the load loose some air. You have to check your tires anyway whats 2 more valves? Cost me about 200 and rated to 2000 lbs

Last edited by gary s; 05-20-2012 at 10:18 PM.
Old 05-21-2012, 06:58 AM
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Originally Posted by Marcucco
I tow a boat with mine as well and it's loaded up with tools when it isn't towing.
I've researched the snot out of the subject and it looks like the only real repair is to replace the springs.
Here is a site with PDF format Mopar - Chrysler OEM parts catalogs for your year XJ. These are handy because they show exploded views of every thing. Not just for the part numbers.http://www.xjjeeps.com/ And it is FREE. If you look through the catalog, you'll see different listings like rear leafs for example. Which was offered in three arch sizes, Standard, Heavy duty, Off road (up-country pkg.) In your case i would order HD leafs. Up-Country have a 1.5 -2" more arch. Old Man Emu for one, I know offer OEM leaf springs. And probably cheaper than a stealership. I would put in new bushings also. JMO!
Old 05-21-2012, 12:15 PM
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When I bought my Jeep I ordered the up country package rather than the towing package. While my boat weighs about 2000, it's the extra stuff you carry that gets you. So mine still sagged. Here is a picture of a 2 week 3000 mile trip,fully loaded and my wife brings alot of stuff!

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Old 05-21-2012, 07:44 PM
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Thanks for all the feedback. What does a set of springs typically run. Any thoughts on OEM vs aftermarket?
Old 05-21-2012, 08:21 PM
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Rockauto.com and get yourself new bolts while your there
Old 05-21-2012, 09:41 PM
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Unless lifting and the whole 9, stick to OEM. My two Lincoln's. Try Quadratec.

Last edited by VTJeep; 05-21-2012 at 09:46 PM.


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