I just bought a 97 xj a few days ago. It was only $1,000 and I've been fixing several things on it. It has a lift of some sort but not sure exactly what lift.
Anyways, I noticed the passenger upper control arm can slide side to side on the bushing. The bushing itself does not move at all. This isn't normal is it? But I don't see how replacing the bushings would solve anything so maybe it is supposed to do that? Does a new bushing also have rubber to cover part of the metal insert so the arm can't move side to side? Do I have the wrong control arms or something? I've attached a picture of this.
I also​​​ attached another picture of the driver side bushing (the one that mounts on the diff)





​​​​​
​​​​​​
​​​​​​
​​​​​

 

i would replace both upper control arms. those look booty fab'd from a set of stock, cut and what appears to be a tube welded in place.
also, most likely the hole for the bushing is worn so it's now sloppy. it should be a press fit, and no movement.

i would measure the distance between mounting bolts, and order yourself a set of adjustable or aftermarket at the length you need. most uppers stay at stock length until you get up past 4 inches of lift.