I picked up a 98 cherokee limited for $1700, needed a window track, needs an 02 sensor and a few other things but have loved it. I was looking at getting the RC 3in lift and I read it compensates to balance the front and rear end out but I also read about smashed leaf springs. Basically I'm asking by looking at these pictures will the kit balance it out or will i need complete new leaf springs. Also is the lower control arm ($355) kit necessary for mild off road use compared to the $255? Thanks

 

That thing has potential. Go with the full leaf springs and don't look back.

 

^ I agree with the above statement, you got a deal on the car. Spend some love on it. I too have a 98 limited with stock rear but it don't sag like that. Make sure you get shocks too. If they are creaking some amateur probly blew them out long ago. Also check the stock leaf packs and see if any of leaf clamps/clips are missing.

 

Get a 3" kit with FULL leaf packs. You dont need the LCAs but they are nice to have.. THE 3" basic kit with full leafs will get you by.

 

Thanks guys. Would the best route be to replace the leafs with an OEM leaf spring kit and then purchase the lift to add on? I see a lot of leaf springs but they all claim to be "lift leaf springs". I would think that would throw the balance off if a lift is added too clearly cause the leafs already added a bit.

Would I purchase and install these on top of the lift? http://www.quadratec.com/products/56010_11.htm
http://www.quadratec.com/products/56010_11.htm

 

If you're going to get new leaf springs, just get the lift kit that already has the full leaf packs. There is no sense in doing an add-a-leaf in addition to buying a brand new OEM leaf pack.

 

That's what I figured but can't seem to find any RC kits that have the full leaf pack included on there site. Going to have to do some research on a few other companies . "Zone" or something along the lines of this. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Jeep-Cheroke...-/280808691835

 

X2 above
Go with the the full kit....

FWIW
Did an add a leaf kit (Procomp 3") on my sons 89 XJ a few years ago. Not long after went for the leaf packs since the back was a litte saggy with the AAL.
Now the back is a little higher than the front so we need some 0.75 - 1" spacers.
Many companies have the kit you'll need.
Which one is a subject of great debate, don't open that can of worms, unless you are buying many rounds of beers

 

Thanks guys, I'll spend a bit more and go with a kit that has full leafs