OK, I cant remember if I posted this before or not, but I need yalls help.

I've been wanting to upgrade the stock suspension on my 96 SE 2dr since I got it, and today I stopped by the nice new 4wheel parts place and asked what they recommend. I asked: "I'm restoring my jeep, Id like better than stock suspension but keep the stock looks"

I was told I needed something custom fabbed, THEN I was told I needed a leveling kit, 1.5" wide wheel spacers and A/T tires and "That would completely change the look and make it bad ***"



Apparently me wanting stock size shocks and bushing recommendations to keep the jeep looking factory fresh somehow translated to a taller front/wider stance...and not one suspension recommendation.

Anywho, heres what I have and what I want, and Id like to pick yalls brains if I can.

96 SE 2dr 2wd 4cyl 5spd. Id like to keep the stock look of the jeep but just have better than stock ride. Its a weak beast so my off roading will be limited to dirt roads and city potholes.

The only other caveat that is very low on my list is looks. In my past research, some sorta shock came up that was blue and yellow... Id rather not have that look... but at the end of the day I dont care if the shock is neon pink if it works well.

Thanks guys.

 

You'd could get new OEM type suspension components except for shocks. Then choose a shock for the ride you'd like.

 

true, but i figured while im doing it and spending the funds, why not just go with the next step up?

 

I honestly don't know if any of the top name suspension manufacturers sell anything other than components for lifting a vehicle.

Here's a start. This company makes top quality OEM type leaf. It's a good read if nothing else.
https://www.generalspringkc.com/Leaf...kee_s/1953.htm

 

Ok, you're looking for upgraded stock stuff. No problem, I'm doing something similar in my build (check my signature.)

You can find OE replacement type stuff from Crown Automotive. And for a lot of the components there is a heavy-duty alternative available, or a heavy-duty part that people use.

Like, I just bought new ball joints. Crown makes OE replacement ball joints, but they also have a set of HD ball joints (IDK what the difference is.)

You can purchase replacement factory-style leaf springs for the XJ, or you can buy replacement heavy-duty leaf springs from the Upcountry XJ package. Still, OE, but beefier.

You can replace your steering linkage in the front with OE stuff from a Grand Cherokee - it's still stock and looks stock, but beefier.

The guys at the local place are being Jerks. You want a bunch of OE replacement stuff from Crown - should have been their easiest customer.

 

Yeah, more or less. I actually don't even need HD stuff as I'd prefer comfort overall. So I was Hopi g for aftermarket shocks, probably crown leaf s, not sure about springs, do the bushings etc

 

Yeah, dude. You can practically build a new Cherokee with stuff from Crown.
Springs, bushings, little bolts and clips. Everything.

https://www.crownautomotive.net/

 

Thats what Ive been seeing. I know a few things dont need to be impressive manufacturers (like leaf springs and bushings) but the shocks I was hoping to go with something better. Eh, Ill keep looking.

Im half tempted to just air bag it. Not to lower it, but just to have the cushy air ride.

 

how bvad is your XJ sagging? you might not need to bother with the leaves at all, or at least not at the moment. But I myself will probably go with Crown UC leaves for a 1-1.5 inch lift over stock in a month or so.

Upcountry also came with upgraded shocks,Blistens maybe? you could look at those for shocks. I think Old Man Emu sells shocks that are sopposed to be comfy, if nnot pricey.

Sounds like the 4x4 shop just wanted to sell you a bunch of stuff and moke cash off you.

 

I actually cant say its sagging at all. When you look at it, the front looks a touch lower than the back (which is fine by me, it reminds me of when people would rake old hotrods). Its just that Im not used to seeing leafs be flat without load. Then again this is my first car in almost 20 years, and the last one had hydraulics...

Heres the best pics I have currently of the profile.

 

I hear you on that one. I come from a minitruck/sporttruck background, and I've been thinking of doing a 2wd XJ on airbags. Rear wheel drive, 5-speed, airbags - that sucker will be a performer!

You could use your stock main leaf spring (just the single, main leaf) and cram an airbag in between the leaf and frame, just like an easy S10 setup.

 

If you want stock parts, Crown is the way to go. If you want high quality with minimal lift I'd recommend the lightest duty OME kit.

 

That's a pretty clean little two door, default!