I just recently bought a 99 jeep xj 2wd with about 190xxx on the engine. its the inline 6 4.0 Im slowly working on replacing and improving things under the hood. with winter right around the corner I want to lift it. Ive looked and read many forums over the last couple weeks. Im tight on money (as im only 17). I was hoping you guys(and gals) could possibly give me some feedback and some ideas as too what i should do, for example, How high to go (without changing control arms and drive train and such). I want to raise it for some light off-roading nothing intense but also to give me a little more clearance come winter. And of course add bigger tires.So please help and offer your advice?

 

btw its also a sport. A 99 jeep cherokee sport.

 

Hey Man,
Given your circumstances there are a few things you can do:
Bastard lift using zj could and dodge leaf packs, ford shocks, really anything that you can find in a JY that will jack er' up
Spend the money on a legitimate lift kit to save yourself time and hassle. More expensive but more reliable.

Also seeing that it's a 2wd unless you are mechanically inclined as well as the resources to make it 4wd I would not waste your time lifting it. Just tuck some larger tires under there and take care of her. She will do what you need her to do. It is still an xj after all.

I'm not trying to discourage you. But I'm speaking from experience 4wd jeeps are more capable and more fun.
Hope this helps a bit on making your decision. Cheers

 

Definitely Find a Wrecked jeep with 4x4 an swap that in before you lift it.

 

I do want to convert it but at the same time, converting it is money I dont have. during the time I got the jeep I was in a tough spot and luckily I got her, Now as for doing the 4wd swap what would I have to do or get? Im a little bit mechanically inclined just not an expert. lol.