I'm thinking of doing a budget boost and want your guys input.

My front shocks are close to the end of their lives, and my rear leaf packs are like totally inverted. Obviously if money wasn't an issue, I'd go all out, but since I'm working on a fixed budget, things need to be modest.

I'm thinking that I'll just buy new OEM leaf packs, and new shocks (I'm thinking Bilstein 5100). Then to get a bit of lift, throw a Rusty's 2" AAL in the rear, and do some 2" spacers for the front shocks.

I almost always have a lot of weight in the back of my XJ though, and I don't want to have to worry about sag. What does everyone think?

 

I think if you're going to buy new leafs anyway....go ahead and get lift leafs. The extra "x" amount of money for 2" lift springs will still be cheaper than buying OEM leafs and THEN buying AAL. And if it ISN'T cheaper....its certainly better.

If you're carrying ALOT of weight in the back, then get 2" HD lift leafs, and then your front spacers, with good shocks all around.
JMO. Its what I'm planning to do on mine for the most part....

 

Yeah if your buying new leafs just get lifted ones. Though I haven't had any sag issues with my AAL, I dont plan on keeping it on very long.

 

Do you recommend any brand for HD lift leafs? Many recommend Old Man Emu.

 

On a budget and a mild lift you could build your own xj-xj leaf pack, bastard pack style. Will give a little lift and significantly increase load carrying and resist sag.

For a great ride and a little lift. New xj HD leafs and HD Offroad shackle relocators and new shackles. I would plan on relocators no matter which way you go. Pick no lift or lift models based on which springs you get.

Lift leafs is another good option but be prepared unloaded that it will likely sit higher in the back. Some dont mind, I personally dont like the look. To each their own.

I dont have the numbers but lookup the spring rate on various springs and compare to stock. Will give you an idea how well they will hold a load and how stiff they will be.