mindbomb
Full Access Member
Hey KJ peeps,
I purchased a 4x4 sport 03' KJ with 45rfe ******, 115k miles never off roaded. Good condition except for some minor interior issues I'm gradually fixing. It's all stock (I got P235/70R16 tires, alloy wheels though) - I want to start off-roading for fun and learn the field gradually. Budget is quite limited.
According to recommendations I got here my path is:
- Lift kit (read on)
- A/T tires (thinking of: 245/75R16)
- some skids (oil can only for starters)
- Bull guard/Winch (need recommendations)
As for Lift kit the direction I was guided is:
OME 927/948 and stock replacement Bilstein shocks
My questions around lift kit are the following: (feel free to answer only some of them, I know it's a lot)
Any info/answers are welcome, many thanks guys!
I purchased a 4x4 sport 03' KJ with 45rfe ******, 115k miles never off roaded. Good condition except for some minor interior issues I'm gradually fixing. It's all stock (I got P235/70R16 tires, alloy wheels though) - I want to start off-roading for fun and learn the field gradually. Budget is quite limited.
According to recommendations I got here my path is:
- Lift kit (read on)
- A/T tires (thinking of: 245/75R16)
- some skids (oil can only for starters)
- Bull guard/Winch (need recommendations)
As for Lift kit the direction I was guided is:
OME 927/948 and stock replacement Bilstein shocks
My questions around lift kit are the following: (feel free to answer only some of them, I know it's a lot)
- Are these the only parts I need to order to get the 2.5" lift? I've seen people talk about bump stops/hockey pucks etc. What does that do? What else is needed/recommended?
- What are the advantages/disadvantages of also replacing the upper control arms? what are their role in the suspension system? should I be thinking of getting also replacement UCAs for this install? Why?
- I don't have the knowledge or equipment to do the installation myself - I've been getting quotes in the 350-550$ range for such installation. Legit? What should I be emphasizing to the potential installer? Any particular recommended installers in NorCal?
- Installers asked me if "any modification" is required for the install, what should I tell them?
- Is there a group of experts I can meet up with in NorCal to do "guided" installation and learn myself?
- What will 2.5" of lift let me do? What does this extra clearance provide in terms of benefits over stock while off roading? What type of trails/obstacles I can take once its installed and couldn't before?
- Should I expect different handling from the KJ after lift kit is installed? How can I confirm handling is right and alignment was done correctly?
- A 2.5" doesn't sound like a lot of difference - Should I consider 4" lift instead? What are the advantages/disadvantages? I guess prices are much higher?
Any info/answers are welcome, many thanks guys!