I have a '98 XJ with a 3" RC lift. Came across a Shackle Extension kit and was curious as to advice, experience and any information on the purpose. I've found some information. Ive seen that they may increase lift, add more room for articulation and allow for a more comfortable ride. But, is it worth it?

Rather listen to somebody with first hand experience and not a retailer. Thanks.

 

Are you talking about a shackle relocation kit?If so a lot of people use them and you have options like no lift or like a inch and half lift.

 

I watched a video on YouTube made by Rough County and they really didn't explain it. Here's the link to their product that I saw.

http://www.roughcountry.com/jeep-xj-...-kit-1117.html

 

Seems it's best to ignore him, he clearly can't be reasoned with. I have no idea what he's saying...

With shackles, the optimum shackle angle at static ride height (level ground, not moving) is about 45° pointing down and towards the rear of your jeep. This allows the springs to work to their full potential. When you toss lift springs under your jeep, it may cause that static angle to change to near vehicle vertical or inverted towards the front, which is very bad. Shackle relocation brackets like the one you posted allow you to move the upper mounting hole forward, thereby changing the angle of the shackle, which will help your ride (assuming your shackle angle was bad before the brackets) and also allow your new springs to articulate to their full potential.

 

I agree with with what was previously posted by JerrytheJeep. I have the
Rough Country kit on my Cherokee because the shackle angle was off after lifting. There is one modification that I have to make though; when my suspension is fully compressed, the shackle pivots back and up and makes contact with the shackle mounting bracket. I'm going to modify the bracket by removing the two back most holes and material. Other than that, they work as advertised.

 

@JerrytheJeep, thanks! That was everything that I was looking for. I'll have to check the shackle angle when I get there.

 

Well what does your current angle look like? Do you even need them?

 

I'll have to look. It's in VA and I'm Hawaii right now. I'll be there in 2 weeks.

 

That seems like a popular thing to do. I have a set myself that im waiting to install with my lift. Im not sure if I'll have to cut em up or not. Op, there are much better ones than the rough country ones. There are some that offer no lift, (avoid FST) but you have to cut out the shackle box. Which isn't horrible, but you cant go back.

 

Well sit back and dont worry about it for two weeks! Enjoy Hawaii!

 

@JerrytheJeep, i've been enjoying HI for 5 years now. Relocating to VA. District of Columbia area. I bought the XJ from a buddy. To be honest with you, i'm done enjoying this place.

 

There are MUCH better versions out there than the junk RC makes. Find ones that use more than the stock shackle bolt and one other little bolt. The ones I use also bolt in with my gas tank skid/hitch and are much more sturdy.

 

Out of all the RC junk there is out there, these actually fit pretty well. they just inherently add 1.5" of lift which is stupid.

Be smart and buy from Brain at HD Offroad.

 

I have hd Offroad 'no lift' shackle relocation brackets, and I couldn't be happier! I've had several built Cherokees and this is the first time I've ever used the brackets, wish I would have done it sooner! Ride is much better, and with one leaf removed from the (settled) 6.5" RC leafs I have (along with RC shackles) flex is stupid for an xj!

So I highly second brian @ HD, if you have a less than perfect shackle angle which most lifted XJ's do...