Hi all. I want to get Rubicon Express Super Flex 3.5 inch lift for a 1998 xj. I want to use Fox Shocks w reservoirs. Any pros/ cons on this. Is it advisable. New to the game but it like the set up. Any input would be great. Thx

 

Both excellent choices. You're off to a good start.

 

RE makes some great kits. I had that kit on my 95' and it was nice. The kit is noy a true 3.5 though. I eneded up with 4.5 in the front and almost 5 in the rear on that kit. You will need a few other things though. SYE(slip yoke eliminator) might be needed if you get driveline vibes after the lift. You may want an adjustable track bar to help center the axle. You may need shims for the rear leafs to help the pinion angle. Lots of things to consider. I'm about to install the RE 4.5 on my 98'.

Again, RE makes great kits, but you will be adding to it sooner or later.

 

Anytime you go over a 3" lift the cost increases vastly because of what is needed to do it properly. None of the kits include all the parts required to do a complete install and many of the parts are the lower end ones when you really better quality/kind pieces "all kits" are that way.


Same applies for tires higher lift bigger tires more cost because with a larger tire you need gear change. Then being you have to dissemble the differential it needs to have the lockers installed then to save the cost of having the same labor cost again later to install lockers, no extra with a gear change.


And the list goes on and on SYE, Driveshaft...........

 

Just did the RE 3.5" on my 1994 with NP241 and Chrysler rear. The driveshaft was making contact with itself at the slip. Installed SYE and the new driveshaft should arrive today. The kit does advise that an SYE should be done and I definitely needed it. Also added a terraflex spacer (3/4") on front to level the vehicle. As mentioned above, the 3.5 was taller than 3.5".

 

Rubicon Express 3.5" coil springs have a rate of 240 pounds. Stock is 140. This could be why they sit higher than advertised. The higher rate is better if you have armor, winch and winch bumper.

 

I have these coils and they're definitely stiff. I've gotten used to it over the past couple years but I remember not liking it at first. If you have a big bumper and/or winch it will ride nicer. Other than that it's a great high quality kit.

Just curious, why external reservoir shocks? Very much overkill for 99% of applications.