Pepaw1959

This my first jeep cherokee plan on riding trails, dirt roads no rock trails where I ride just a lot of sand. I would like to keep highway friendly as possible and still able to ride the sand trails also. Its a 1999 xj 6 cylinder auto so far I have ordered rough country 4.5 short arm kit will add rear bumper possibly front bumper and lights at this point. I want to add wheels and tires with this set up what size would you guys suggest that would look good with the 4.5 lift I plan on keeping it as stock as possible. I also heard the jeep cherokee run warm and keep in mind I live in Oklahoma gets in the 100 degrees summer time. look forward to any input and or suggestions. Thanks

GreaseMonkey17

Pepaw1959

The jeep is in really good condition been idling around 200 degrees I've read that others have replace radiator and went with bigger new radiators. could you explain what you meant by replacing entire cooling system? thanks

DJXJ97

It isn't absolutely necessary but more of a precaution because of something fails causing it to overheat, you could have major issues. It would be best to flush the cooling system first (ChrisFix has a 10/10 video on this), replace water pump, thermostat, upper and lower rad hoses, radiator, things like that. Then put a good 50/50 mix of coolant in it and you shouldn't have any overheating issues for a long time. Also its good to check the alternator because they can go downhill fast and leave you stranded with a wrecked battery as well. Also check for rusty brake lines and if they look even the slightest bit questionable, replace them. It's a relatively easy and inexpensive precaution that could be an actual life saver.

Pepaw1959

Thanks for the replies. I just had the rough country 4.5 short arm lift installed very stiff ride does it get better in time if not is there any options to improve the ride? Thanks

DJXJ97

It does get a little better overtime. I've been daily driving that lift for the last 2 years and you get used to it really. At first the springs are very stiff on almost anything, since they take some time to break in and level out. No it's not the best lift but for the price you pay, it's worth it to me.

Pepaw1959

What tires do you suggest and I'm getting a noise from the rear end since it was lifted could it be pinion bearing? thanks

DJXJ97

Check the U-Joint on your rear driveshaft. The issue could be your rear drive shaft being at too steep of an angle. Did you install the lift yourself or at a shop?

Pepaw1959

Was done at a shop changed out pinion bearing took care of it. It feel like a vibration in the front end now. Talked to rc lift and they said it setup where it shouldn't require having to change out parts. I know since 4.5 lift was installed there's been vibrations that wasn't there before lift install.

DJXJ97

Did the shop install transfer case drop spacers?