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After the installation of a lift on a Jeep an alignment will make sure the Jeep tracks correctly down the road and prevent premature tire wear. Unlike a typical car the Jeep Wrangler continues the long tradition of simplicity and relative un-adjustability in regard to suspension adjustment.
Mike’s 1977 CJ-7. The equipment list is rather extensive on this Jeep. A perfect combination of good looks and serious trail-worthy make this Jeep incredible.
There is not much that is factory on this thing…the hood, fenders and grille? Under the hood is an AMC 401 backed with a TH400 automatic, behind that is an Atlas. The rear Ford 9″ axle contains a spool while the front is a Cherokee Dana 44. The Jeep features a custom race suspension and …
Even a mild lift on a JK will cause the axles to shift off center. The may cause handling issued and/or tire rubbing. Many aftermarket companies make adjustable track bars for the JK that allow the axle to be re-centered but many are lacking in the rigidity of the factory bar.
Rear Installation As we did during the front installation support the Jeep’s weight on stands to allow the rear suspension to partially hang free. Start by removing the shocks. Allow the axle to lower completely watching for stretching brake lines, hoses, and/or cables. Remove the rear coil springs.
Front Installation – continued It is easier to install the new springs with the sway bar links and lower track bar mount disconnected. This allows the axle to move further and more freely.
With progressive springs and Rough Country 2.2 Performance shocks Offroading with a TJ is loads of fun, we all know that. A stock TJ is quite capable but a mild lift and larger tires allows more adventure and keeps the underside of the Jeep less abused.
Skid Plate Spacer Installation Nearing the end of the install the last step is to install the transmission skid plate spacers. Support the plate on a floor jack and remove the three bolts on one side.
If you have a leaf sprung Jeep and ever used degree shims to adjust your axles have probably used aluminum shims (or wedges). If you have used the aluminum ones you probably have seen what they look like over time and have listened to them squeak, creak, and clunk.
After a lift on a Wrangler JK these simple bolts set the caster back where it belongs.
