billings98

I just bought a 1998 XJ and have been cleaning it up and noticed that the rear leaf springs are practically flat now. I was wondering what the best remedy for this problem was. Should I get them re-arched, use an add a leaf kit, or buy brand new ones. I would like to get a 3 inch lift kit in the future but don't have the funds right now. I do know some lift kits come with add a leaf kits and was wondering if I should just wait and get a kit.

GreenXJ98

Welcome. I'd say just wait until you get a lift and make sure to get new, complete leaf spring packs with it, not add a leafs. Putting add a leafs on worn out springs is never a good idea.

billings98

Awesome thank you. When I do get a kit what are some good brands?

GreenXJ98

Rubicon Express, Rusty's off road, and Zone are all budget friendly, but good companies to go with. Check out this comprehensive list right here. https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f67/je...mpanies-76868/

Tsaani97xj

^^^^

If you go 3" Id recommend Rusty's they have a 150lb(close to stock) coil and HD 180lb. Zone and Rubicon Express are much stiffer at 240lb. I hated the ride with the Zone springs and shocks. If you are going to add significant weight to the front you might not mind the super stiff coils. Also plan shackle relocation brackets into your lift. They make a huge difference in rear suspension performance. HD Offroad Engineering makes some nice ones at a reasonable price. Gluck with your XJ.

russellj

Like Green xj98 says get them with your lift kit. When I bought my 01 I didn't realize how bad my springs were until after I put the lift on, then I bought springs.

Fred/N0AZZ

I agree on the Rustys 3" full leaf/coil spring package all American made leafs & coils that don't sag like some do after a very short time I've has mine on for over 2 1/2 yrs. now. I did order the HD coil springs 180# with my kit because I was using a heavy winch/bumper combo and have an excellent ride.

My best advice would be to never use an AAL to any old leaf spring.

billings98

I do plan on putting a bumper with a winch on the front and a roof rack for my spare and some extra storage on top. Would that be reason enough to put on stiffer coils.

GreenXJ98

Definitely. If you get a heavy bumper and winch, go with the HD 3 inch coils from Rusty's off road.

burg3rlicious

Just leave them until you eventually lift it, no point in replacing them, then replacing them again.

billings98

I just took the back tires off to get a closer look (will attach a picture) and both are flat as I thought. I was informed that it could be the shock that needs replacing. How bad of condition are these in ( both look the same).

GreenXJ98

They look pretty worn out to me. If you're going to lift it, get new leaf spring packs, and you'll be good.

sycoglitch

Put tires back on, put jeep flat on ground and take a pic. Can't get a proper reading when you're forcing the axle into the leafs like that. Then we can say how much life MAY be left in them only as an opinionated gauge

chipmaker

Those don't look too awfully bad. Hell mine look like they're frowning. Haha If you're going to lift it I say let it be and get a kit with full leaf packs. BTW shocks have nothing to do with the arch of your spring, they only dampen the contraction and expansion of the springs. Just my two Lincolns

burg3rlicious

Unless you're having clearance issues with rubbing or anything in wouldn't worry about it, it's a cosmetic thing you should probably just deal with until you lift it. It's silly to buy new shocks and or leafs if you're lifting it regardless