Front axle not lining up during lift install.
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Newbie
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 8
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Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Front axle not lining up during lift install.
So I'm installing a lift onto my xj and somehow my axle shifted position. The diff is facing about 20 degrees downward so I cant install my upper control arms and my caster is all messed up because of the position of the axle. Not to mention the whole thing is shifted to the passenger side. What's the best way to get it aligned back up?
Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 136
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From: Freeburg, IL
Year: 94
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Best thing to do is disconnect everything. So that all u have sitting there is your axle. (Brake lines do not have to be disconnected). Connect upper arms first one side at a time then move to the lowers. Install ur bolts do not tighten. Go about installing coils, shocks, steering, wheels and tires. Get the jeep back on the ground and use your steering wheel to line up the trackbar to the hole in the axle.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Best thing to do is disconnect everything. So that all u have sitting there is your axle. (Brake lines do not have to be disconnected). Connect upper arms first one side at a time then move to the lowers. Install ur bolts do not tighten. Go about installing coils, shocks, steering, wheels and tires. Get the jeep back on the ground and use your steering wheel to line up the trackbar to the hole in the axle.
Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 136
Likes: 0
From: Freeburg, IL
Year: 94
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Well your going to have a heck of a time getting things lined up if u already have the coils in. Best thing to do is support the jeep that way the axle can be moved freely to where you need it.
Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 136
Likes: 0
From: Freeburg, IL
Year: 94
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Having steering and trackbar disconnected is also very helpful. Cuz you need to be able to move the axle freely side to side up and down to get bolt through the hole. I remember my first lift I installed. It was a son of a gun. Had rachet straps goin everywhere and pry bars. Like I said, you want to be able to move that axle freely. Ya it might be a few more bolts, but it's gonna save you a headache in the end.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Having steering and trackbar disconnected is also very helpful. Cuz you need to be able to move the axle freely side to side up and down to get bolt through the hole. I remember my first lift I installed. It was a son of a gun. Had rachet straps goin everywhere and pry bars. Like I said, you want to be able to move that axle freely. Ya it might be a few more bolts, but it's gonna save you a headache in the end.
CF Veteran
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 6,588
Likes: 495
From: Chico, CA
Year: 1986
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.3L with headers and full 3" exhaust system
Get one lower on, then another. Then use a jack to jack the pinion up until you can get an upper attached. Fourth will be harder and you will need to use ratchet straps to get it aligned enough to get the bolt in
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CF Veteran
Joined: Mar 2016
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Year: 96
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
I found using 2 jacks close together could alter the angles, and made things much easier.
didnt need ratchet straps after that, an adjustable trackbar, and turned steering wheel to line bolt up
didnt need ratchet straps after that, an adjustable trackbar, and turned steering wheel to line bolt up
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