Misc Leaf or 4 Link

[oldcj7guy]

I already know what some of you are going to say; a CJ7 should have leafs. However, with my 'new' 1979 narrow track CJ7 , I want to turn it into a capable crawler. For reference, I've run the Rubicon a couple of times in my 3.5" lifted JL with 37's. It did a capable job. That's about the level of trail I'd like to do with my CJ7 . Yes, I know that there are some hard core drivers out there that can do the Rubicon with a WW2 flat fender with narrow wheels. That's not what I'm talking about; I'm not that skilled. I'm looking to have fun and keep my heart beat under 100.
Anyhow, if you were to build my Jeep, would you go leaf or 4-link. If leaf, SOA or SUA? I know this is a newbie question. I've done a lot of car restorations, but this will be my first Jeep.

 

[TSB8C]

Outside of how/where I play. Anxious to see other inputs. I've sometimes dreamed of 4-linking mine. Not because I need it for how/where I take my rig, but just because I like the idea of the challenge/learning. I installed a tilt column and have never tilted it. Thought I'd use it, but I just wanted it. I installed a keyless push button start with remote just because I could. I like modding and playing with the CJ and trying/learning new ideas. Don't know yet if I'd ever pull the trigger on the 4-link, but another potential in the back of my mind for someday perhaps. Make it your own and have fun with it. Again - anxious to see what others have to say on the topic.

 

[Belizean]

I drove a scrambler once with SOA and it was a little scary when it was at an angle. If you are doing the work yourself, the 4 link would be great.

 

[oldcj7guy]

Doing it myself. I would like to do a 4 link just because I like challenging projects, but not sure I'm going to if I don't need it to meet my off-road goals. Again, the off-road goal would be to do the Rubicon without a heap of trouble.

 

[CJ]

A four link is a great project. A thread on this.

B

Thread '4 link'

Jan 13, 2011

i have an 85 CJ7 i need to know everything about fabing and installing a trianguleted 4 link

• big green
• Replies: 10
• Forum: Drivetrain

A good video.

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[KRUPP]

Just depends on how much work and time you want to put into it. I do believe that once you go down the coil overs rabbit hole it's an entirely different animal. I've never done a coil over vehicle, although I'm considering it on the front of an early Bronco, of which I'm hunting for right now.

A SUA leaf setup is really appealing for it's simplicity and quick install. You can wheel over surprising stuff too, if the Jeep is locked and geared down.
A SOA leaf setup is a logical next step. Much better ride and more flex with the flatter springs. Reverse the front shackles and it's even smoother. There is usually some axle wrap at the rear that has to be tamed, but not too big of a deal.

My opinion: For most wheelers, SOA, locked at both ends, low gears and 35"-37" tires is probably enough and the grins will be a plenty as you roll over a crazy amount of stuff.
Like TSB8C stated above, it's your Jeep, so make it the way you want it and have fun in the process.