I recently bought a 99' XJ and the rear leaf springs need replacing. I was told the Jeep was lifted "About 3 inches". I haven't verified this, but can if need be.
I think the lift is coming from non-OEM shackles and not from the essentially flat leaf springs. See picture. So when I go to replace the leaf springs I am unsure if I should get standard OEM ones or get 3" lift leaf springs. I suspect I just want normal leaf springs? Also there doesn't seem to be shackles on the front connection point. Is that normal for a lifted XJ? See 2nd picture.
Currently, with the basically flat leaf springs, the car sits perfectly level front to back. I imagine no matter what leaf springs I put in there I am going to add some height to the rear of the vehicle but would prefer to minimize that because I am unsure how that effects gas mileage, drivetrain, etc. 3" of lift is plenty for me.
Any other advice so I don't do something stupid is much appreciated. I used to own a 2000 XJ but it was pretty much stock. So I am new to lifted XJs.
Many lift kits use a different spring, you will want to get same. often you can add or subtract a leaf to change lift. U bolts and nuts should be replaced, single use item.
shackle should hang at 45 degree angle. once new spring is installed, check angle, adjust shackel length or relocate mount to get desired angle.
Id be ordering a 3 inch lift spring, that is what I am thinking, and a set of U bolts and nuts while you are at it make sure your pinion angle is good before you pull it apart, if not right it can be corrected with angled shims between axle and spring.
of course you will need new bushings too. sometimes the springs already have the bushing installed
ps your shackle looks way much too vertical, which gives a harsh ride on bumps. of course you really need to see the shackle side on to get the angle measured, but from what I see at less than optimum viewing angles, that shackle is not near 45 degrees!
Quote: ps your shackle looks way much too vertical, which gives a harsh ride on bumps. of course you really need to see the shackle side on to get the angle measured, but from what I see at less than optimum viewing angles, that shackle is not near 45 degrees!
You're right despite the angle - it isn't anywhere near 45 degrees.
I am afraid if I put 3 inch leafs in that I am going to bring the back up quite a bit even with the reduction in lift from moving the shackle to 45 degrees. You think it will stay at about the same height though?
Those are definitely stock leafs with a huge shackle. When you get replacements, get new shackles too that aren't so long to compensate for the lift that the new leaf pack will give.
I bet a pair of Crown or Dorman "Upcountry" leaf packs coupled with a 1.5" boomerang shackle would get you to the same ride height but with much more effective load carrying and ride quality.
Awesome! Thanks for the advice gentleman. I think I am going with 1.5" boomerang shackles and 1.5" leaf springs. I will also replace the U bolts as well.
