If you were to get the ORK for winching, the 60" would be less work than the 48". The Smittybilt jack is cheaper both in cost and construction than Hi-lift brand. If you rarely use the jack, the SB is an option.

 

If your local pep boys has a "speed shop" they have hi lift brand jacks.

Harbor freight has them too but I'm assumimg they are crap.

 

A HighLift jack should be part of your vehicle recovery gear, so the quality should be as good as you can afford. Although a HighLift isn't used often, when you need to use it you do need it to work correctly.

 

I may order the 48 inch one amazon has for like 60 bucks.
I have a few bucks burning a hole in my pocket

 

Yeah that's not a bad deal at all dude...

 

60" is the way to go. If your stuck on a obstical the extra bar important to have. Unless you just plan on doing tire changes, then I recommend just getting a bottle jack. Remember the Hi-lift is a Multi-tool. I own the Hi-lift xtreme. I like the extra features. An a 60 is awesome for using to clamp or spread.

You well never pull out a 60 and say "I have to much jack to do this.", But you may get 48" and "My jack isnt long enough " lol

 

4WD Hardware has a Smittybuilt Jack
54" tall @ $ 49.99
http://www.4wd.com/Jeep-Winches-Jeep...t_pn=S%2fB2722

 

So with the Hi-Lift and a stock xj what do you use as jacking points? Bumpers?

 

If you have aftermarket bumpers/sliders. If you don't have those a highlift won't be very good for jacking.

 

They sell an adaptor for the bumper and another to lift by the rims.

http://www.hi-lift.com/accessories/index.html

 

my farm and fleet 49.99 "farm jack" works great. i rarely use it though if i used it all the time. there would be a hi lift in my jeep. but instead it sits in my fathers shop where he uses it on the farm all summer long... jmho where we use it most it sits. spend the money or buy a winch