another lift/tire size question

I will be getting my very first XJ soon and am doing my homework and getting ready for all the fun.

For the first couple years I will want to keeps mods and costs at a budget level but want to get the most for that budget, so have a few questions about lift and tires and fender trimming. I will likely do a ZJ front coil and spacer for 2.5"-3.5" in the front (depending on how it ends up, I guess) and a bastard pack in the rear for a level ride with a little cargo in the rear. What I want to know is whether I can likely get away with 31" or even 32" tires with that lift and around 1" trimming on fenders? I want to re-utilize stock flares (moved higher) if possible and get as much tire as I reasonably can without rubbing on tires. Can I assume that the worst rub will be at full stuff when front of wheel is turned outward? Will a 2.75" lift with a 2"-2.5" bumpstop extension prevent most of the problems? Is it safe to assume that a tire that is 4" larger in diameter and therefore 2" larger in radius only requires 2" more lift to clearance the same as stock?

If anyone would be so nice as to post their experiences and pics with similar setups and specs (tire size, rim size and backspacing, lift height, etc) it'd be really cool. Thanks.

Dunno what year you have but if it's an early xj (pre 97 and some 96's) 3" is no problem and very easy to due. on my first jeep I did 2" with 31x10.5's and hacked up fenders (I was young and stupid lol) on my 2nd jeep I did 3" coils and a block (would NOT recommend a 3" block.. again young and stupid). The front sounds good just try to keep it about 3" or you may have the need for a new trac bar to fix the offset. In your bastard pack I would recommend getting another set of xj leafs, keep your main leaf in the jeep, add a second main (cutting right at the bushing so it fully supports the main), 2 secondary and then a single of the rest. I did this with a small block for about 4.5 and it rides real nice. So no block and grab a 1" shackle should put you about 3". Get some good shocks and call it good to go. 3" 31's is imo the best DD option. You can get to alot of fun places without breaking down.

Thanks. Any more suggestions or anyone wanna post some more images?

I don't even have the XJ yet. I'm actually in the Persian Sea right now, but will be getting it early this spring after I get home. I really am thinking '99 for the improvements in the engine equpment, or even a 2001 if I could swap to high pinion axles. I like the idea of no distributor.

Anyway, I was likely going to build the bastard pack with dakota springs as they are more arched and very available. I can play with the leafs to get the ride I want. The XJs are pretty flat, though. 31"s is my very lowest, so if I need to I'd do more to get there... but think I can do that with BB... just wanted to know if I can get 32's with 1" trim.

Also, I may go with a slightly longer spring and a longer, angeled shackle for more flex on droop. Down the road (a couple years?) I may want to go with more lift and full suspension replace by then. But for now, I want my first XJ and enough tire to be respectable. I may go slightly more than 3" in the rear just to compensate for the heavier bumper, cargo rack, and towing... but again, can adjust later if needed.

Please keep the input coming, guys.

if you go with a newer xj like your saying then you may want to factor in a SYE when you do the build. the newer xj are prone get driveshaft vibrations as you get over 2" lift

3" lift with 31's is a common lift. No trimming needed.

Checkout this thread on JF.

http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f11/xj-lift-setups-read-first-post-before-replying-45602/

Also check out this thread: http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=968708

tdkask said:

I really am thinking '99 for the improvements in the engine equpment, or even a 2001 if I could swap to high pinion axles. I like the idea of no distributor.

Click to expand...

:huh:

Search - there are lots of threads covering most of your questions. Here's a bit to get you started:

http://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/need-lift-kit-advice-9729/

Write ups:
http://www.stu-offroad.com/siteindex.asp
http://jeephorizons.com/tech/

All you need to know about shackles:
http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=845026

Cutting rear fenders
http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f11/cut-fold-rear-lower-quarter-panels-right-way-1007865/
http://www.naxja.net/forum/showthread.php?t=29750


If I did a small 2-3" lift I would probably do ZJ coils in the front, a longer shackle in the rear, and throw in an extra leaf or 2 in the rear.

A friend of mine did the ZJ coils in the front and a 1" lift shackle in the rear...rear is sitting lower than the front since we thought a shackle 2" longer than stock would lift it 2". All it did was push the leafs down so it is flat instead of slightly arched. :doh:
Since you're just starting out, I suggest you create a bookmark folder in your browser with different categories (write ups, armor ideas, vendors...etc) and whenever you find a well written article or aftermarket part that you like just throw it in the folder even if you don't need it at the time.
Good luck.