I'm about to purchase a 3" lift and I'm curious about whether I actually need different lower control arms for a lift this small.

 

You dont, but it doesn't hurt to replace them with something stronger.

 

I have 3" and I need LCA's. My axle sits too far back. I'm going with a set of IRO's when I get the cash.

 

I read that the ones you get with a 3" lift are the same length as the stock ones. So will you have to buy adjustable ones?

 

Yeah, I'm getting the adjustables from IRO.
http://www.ironrockoffroad.com/Merch...egory_Code=XSP

 

IMO, you do not NEED aftermarket LCA's for 3" lift. But, I recommend cutting out part of the shock mount to allow more droop. Actually, whether you do or do not I recommend it, give you that much extra travel. Adjustables make it that much easier to make changes to alignment. Something with a bend and/or offset end will help with extra travel as well.
If you are certain that you are not going to go taller, or plan on using CA drop brackets/ long arms if you do go higher. Go with a fixed lower and an adjustable upper, if you cannot afford both.

 

Why a fixed lower and adjustable upper?

 

So rough country... Yay or nay?!

 

I'd get the IRO..just my .02 tho

 

With a correct length fixed lower, your axle is set in the correct position. Adjustable upper allows better caster/pinion angle adjustment.
I would avoid RC, except for MAYBE CAD brackets.
IRo, Rocky Road outfitters, RE

 

I got rc fixed 4.5 lift lca's on my jeep with a 3 inch lift it shovedmy axle forward and fixed my camber so it won't hurt to get some and there only like $80.00 I think.

 

I believe that their (RC) LCA's for up to 4.5" are the same. Camber can only be changed by balljoints on the D30, so I believe you meant CASTER.

 

I have the IRO adj uprs and fixed bent stlye lowers on my 4.5" lift. I love IRO, they make a great product.

with only a 3" lift you don't really need c/a's but it is recomended that you atleast get fixed lowers.

 

Talk to Iro and Ask about flex joints in them I don't know if they do them but I must say they are a good company except the long arms thoughs are junk.

 

Mines was the same way. Every xj is different when it comes I a lift. My new IRO LCA moved the axle a few incessant forward and centered it in the well. Do the lift and see what you need as you go.