Hello y'all, I'm replacing the OME suspension (rear first, front second) my XJ has on it. You could say I'm a stickler for having all of my things the same.

So when I see that ARB makes OME U bolts, but @$20 a pop, Im wondering if I really need them.. would these make a difference by having it match the leafs and shocks or is it just an up sale? Would any ole more decently priced u bolts work just as well?

Sorry if this is obvious, I appreciate all input.

 

Are you replacing the suspension with Old Man Emu suspension parts? OME are top quality parts and not inexpensive. Get the OME U bolts and don't try to save money here. They have the correct strength and hardness and will fit correctly.

 

Yes siree, it came with Old Man Emu, it is so blown out that my leafs are completely flat. I appreciate your input, I haven't messed with suspension before. I all ready have the OME bolts in my cart, along with the bushings I need for the replacement. Kudos!

 

I wouldn't worry about matching brands. As long as you use good U bolts, you won't have any problems

 

Just buy them. You need them.

 

You may find that the front coil springs are OK and do not need replacement. Both front and back are a bit of a pain but especially the back if the bolts through the spring bushings do not come out easily. A locking adhesive material is on factory bolts, or if properly done reused bolts would have had Loctite applied. This can make spring bushing bolts very difficult to remove without breaking the mostly inaccessible nut that is welded into the frame. Apply penetrating fluid for several days. You can carefully apply heat to the bolts or slowly tighten and loosen bolts until they begin to run free. Do not use an impact wrench! On factory bolts you will get a jarring crack as the locking material begins to break free. Last I checked factory bolts were available from my local Chrysler dealer. I recommend replacing all spring bolts with factory parts if possible. Bushings from OME are nearly impossible to press into the springs without a press. I highly recommend finding someone that can do this properly. I used a place that specializes in truck springs.
My '91 build thread may have some info you find useful: https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f46/19...thread-256001/