campxj

I have always been a very curious guy and I need some help.

Can someones explain the science behind lifting a vehicle (Specifically an XJ)?

What are the benefits?

What are the drawbacks?

Does lifting your vehicle increasing roll-over potential? If so why?


Thank you for all the help. I have always been interesting in the way things work and this is an extremly intriguing topic to me.

BlueRockRash

I dont know science but i know the benifits are more clearance for bigger tires and better axle flex and the drawbacks are higher roll over potential and worse gas milage because of the bigger tires. you just cant drive like a race car and you will be fine and not rollover

oldschoolXJ

Well lifting a jeep gives you more ground clearance so you can clear bigger things (ie logs, rocks, ruts, etc.). Also it gives you more 'flex'. Flex is amount of suspension articulation. more is better for offroading and rock crawling so you can keep all 4 on the ground to plant power. Now the amount of lift will depend on what your using it for and how much. for example I have 3" lift right now because I do do off road explorations but nothing too serious right now. I know some guys on here go off road alot and use 3'' but dont do alot of crawling so they dont need alot of travel. Others do alot of 'roading and have larger lifts for getting over rocks. Others leave their jeep stock cuz they just dont need any lift. Now the draw backs are 1. bigger lifts are expensive 2.) highway manors arent as good 3.) rollover potential. There is a bigger rollover chance because the center of gravity is higher. Heres a better explaination of center of gravity http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Center_of_mass

I hope this helps

Jarrett

Increased rollover potential is due to higher center of gravity (becomes top heavy). You'll gain aproach angle and departure angle. The bigger tires you try to fit after the lift will give you higher ground clearance. Lift and tire combo also adds a little more stress to parts.

Oh and not to mention it ads up quick in the wallet lol

campxj

Haha. Thanks for all the good answers!

I was just a little curious and all of your answers definitely make since now that I think of it.

Also, our vehicles are designed to provide power to the wheel that is easiest to move correct? (Without a locker that is) Therefor flex is a good thing?

Jeepjunky

flex is a good thing if you need to climb over stuff like rocks or trees

Ladies

Kind of correct... With locked axles both wheels will spin the same amount, which can cause problems while turning (the outside wheel spins more). Either way flex in beneficial for off roading. Keep in mind that although lifting raises the center of gravity, aftermarket rims that have further backspacing (offset) will increase your stability.

EastBeast

Science is good but don't forget that lifted jeeps look cool. And chicks dig 'em.

gatorbait

x2 plus fat chicks cant jump so your chances of hot chicks increase