CJ7 lift recommendations

[tank45]

Hey All! New member here looking for some recommendations.

My father in law is giving me his completely stock 1986 CJ7 (pics in a few days). This jeep is going to be mainly an in town driver but will will definitely be doing some trails; no rock crawling. My main objective is lifting 2.5-4in, improving ride quality, and sticking to as close to bolt on parts/kits as possible.

Any strong opinions on lift brand, specific parts or configurations? And if there is a a thread that nails this question please provide the link!

 

[CJ]

The best aftermarket bolt on CJ spring conversion for ride and articulation is in progress at this time in this thread...

Thread 'Old man emu YJ spring conversion'

Jul 26, 2024

Title says it all. Well sorta. I'm looking for a vender (not quadrajunk) for an old man emu YJ spring conversion kit for my 85 CJ7 . I'm not even sure if they are still being made or if I'll have to piece together my own kit. If need be I'll even import a kit from Australia. But local would be better.

I'm sure one or two of you have done this before and might have the best input. Thanks in advance

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[KRUPP]

Hey tank.

Fellow Coloradan here. Look forward to seeing your ‘86. I have one too.
You’ll get a ton of opinions on this. You made a good choice of coming here though.

-CJ linked above to O.M.E. products. Great stuff, for sure. Not sure you’ll need the wider YJ springs up front though.

-Look at BDS: Haven’t used em, but haven’t heard anything negative. Very popular choice.

4 Inch Lift Kit | Jeep CJ5/CJ7 (82-86)

Designed to improve stance, performance, and capability. BDS Suspension has designed this 4-inch lift kit for your 1982-1986 Jeep CJ5 and CJ7. This kit includes everything necessary to set your truck up right with clearance for up to 33" tires. This 4-inch lift kit includes front and rear...

bds-suspension.com

-Rubicon Express: Got’m now. Chose it over BDS for purely saving $$. Had an opportunity for a big deal, so took it.
Good stuff, with some baggage though - Had wrong front springs shipped. But, they corrected, no questions.
I’ve run it in Moab a couple times and in CO for 2 years. Compared to my past “custom” springs from Alcan in Grand Jct.,
these springs are dang good.

-Stay away from Rough Country & Skyjacker.

Have fun with that Jeep.

 

[Manic Mechanic]

My recommendation is Old Man emu. But hey that's why I'm building it on my 85

 

[Hilblee68]

Me, I'm looking for best ride vs price. My old lady is gonna boot me if I spend the emu kinda money.

 

[Belizean]

Tell the little woman it’s an investment for old age. It’s going to be worth a lot in another 40 years. I’ve had mine for over 4 decades. I know I could maybe sell it for double what I paid for it. Just don’t mention the part about probably spending over the years double what I paid for it with maintenance and new parts. And the part about insurance for over 4 decades I could have bought 2 or 3 more new jeeps. Treat her right and she will love you back.

 

[hole]

Another vote OME. Cheap lift kits generally mean stiff ride at a minimum. Pick up some side work to fund your project if need be to appease your lady.

 

[Manic Mechanic]

He's right better to cry only once. Ome might be more money but if it's superior quality and you don't have to redo it. Then it's cheaper in the long. Think like this harbor freight tools are cheaper but when you break and replace it a few times it cost more in the long run. Even more so when you factor in time and down time.