When starting out, shopping for a lift kit can be overwhelming. Not only are there dozens of brands, but many of those companies make multiple different kits. From short-arm to long-arm, dual-rate to progressive springs, deciphering the difference between all the different 3.5” kits can be daunting.

So let’s start with the basics. What is going on under your Jeep? We are going to look at a JK front end, but keep in mind from TJ to JL are very similar.

 
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Brief description what these parts do?

Track bar: Centers the axle under the jeep by running from the frame to the opposite side of the axle.

Drag link: Steering arm that connects the movement at the steering box on the frame to the steering knuckle on the opposite side of the axle.

Tie Rod: Connects both tires together (not required in a lift, but important to know)

Upper Control Arm UCA: Works with Lower Control arms. Sets caster/pinion angle

Lower Control Arm LCA: Holds the axle to the frame, Working with the UCAs, the LCAs control rotational forces on the axle. Can adjust caster/pinion

Steering Stabilizer: Dampens minor road vibrations (not required in a lift, but important to know)

NOT PICTURED Brake Lines: Lets brake fluid pass to the brake caliper

 

 

Knowing what these parts are and what they do, keep in mind a lot of time and money went into a stock design. Every part has a length and an angle for a very specific reason.

Let’s jump right in.

 
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Game Changer

8 adjustable control arms

Front and rear brake lines

2 adjustable track bars, 1 relocation bracket

Front and rear sway bar end links

Great lift for hitting the hardest trails in the country multiple times a year.


Dual Rate

Front upper control arms

Front brake lines with rear drop brackets

1 track bar and relocation bracket

Front and rear sway bar end links

Best suited for light trail use.


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Super Flex

4 adjustable control arms, 4 fixed control arms

Front and rear brake lines

1 track bar and relocation bracket

Front and rear sway bar end links


Sport Lift

Drop brackets for 8 control arms

Brake line drop brackets

2 track bar relocation brackets

Rear sway bar end links

High steer drag link


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Stage 3

4 adjustable control arms, 4 fixed control arms

Front and rear brake lines

Front and rear track bar relocation brackets

Front and rear sway bar end links

Complete drag link

Shocks not included


Stage 1

Front control arm cam bolts

Brake line drop brackets

Front and rear track bar relocation brackets

Rear sway bar links

Complete drag link

Shocks not included


 

It is important to know what you are getting (or not getting) in any kit you buy. Missing something may be COMPLETELY OKAY for some Jeepers needs. There is not one perfect kit; some are more complete than others, so it’s best to find the best kit for YOU. Talking to a 4x4 shop is a great start BUT ask questions and make them listen. Don’t be sold on a kit that isn’t right for you.