My son just turned 16 and I got him a 2000 XJ for his birthday. It's lifted with what I believe is a 4.5 rough country lift. Not a great lift. Or tires for that matter.
As you might expect, the ride is terrible. I paid a local shop to go through the lift, set it up properly, and align it. They said the setup was poor. They never even installed the correct rear leaf springs that came with the kit. I'm putting them in the next few weekends.
However, the cherokee rides terrible. Front end pops when hitting bumps, vibrations are extreme, and it's still darty with bump steer. I'm disappointed that the shop didn't identify those problems for me. I was clear I wanted the lift setup and issues noted. i also asked for advice and told them what my end goal was "capable XJ that can safely be driven on the road".
I understand this will never be a cadillac, but, I've been in lifted XJ's in the past and most drive better than this.
The front sway bar was disconnected. I installed some quick disconnects and that made a huge difference in body roll.
Suspensions are not my strong suit. I can diagnose and repair engine issues, but, I'm lost with suspension. I was thinking to try and find some street wheels and tires to install until I get everthing tuned as well as it can be. I don't want to be fighting or get confused with tire issues. Previous owner was not kind to this car.
Should I scrap and replace the suspension? I would think that might not be necessary. Might need to upgrade a few things. But, in general, need some guidance.
Can you guys help? Where do I start? What should I check? I have most tools at my disposal except a lift.
As you might expect, the ride is terrible. I paid a local shop to go through the lift, set it up properly, and align it. They said the setup was poor. They never even installed the correct rear leaf springs that came with the kit. I'm putting them in the next few weekends.
However, the cherokee rides terrible. Front end pops when hitting bumps, vibrations are extreme, and it's still darty with bump steer. I'm disappointed that the shop didn't identify those problems for me. I was clear I wanted the lift setup and issues noted. i also asked for advice and told them what my end goal was "capable XJ that can safely be driven on the road".
I understand this will never be a cadillac, but, I've been in lifted XJ's in the past and most drive better than this.
The front sway bar was disconnected. I installed some quick disconnects and that made a huge difference in body roll.
Suspensions are not my strong suit. I can diagnose and repair engine issues, but, I'm lost with suspension. I was thinking to try and find some street wheels and tires to install until I get everthing tuned as well as it can be. I don't want to be fighting or get confused with tire issues. Previous owner was not kind to this car.
Should I scrap and replace the suspension? I would think that might not be necessary. Might need to upgrade a few things. But, in general, need some guidance.
Can you guys help? Where do I start? What should I check? I have most tools at my disposal except a lift.