Summer Jeep Build - Part 4

The lift has commenced. To be honest it really hasn't been that difficult thus far -just time consuming. Don't let these 4x4 shops fool you, this stuff is simple. Ask questions on your local forum, have a knowledgeable friend help out, and make sure you've got all the right tools. If you don't have a garage, ask on your forum if anyone is willing to lend a garage for the weekend -most cases your local club members will charge a case of beer. I don't have any friends, that is why I am doing this alone ;)

So far I've only had one hiccup, I had to re-run the brake lines on the 8.8 because I failed to see what actually came in the brake extension kit. Turns out its a brand new extended line with a t-joint. I thought it was going to be a simple extension (I guess that way is not DOT approved). So I went to my local Napa and got a drivers side disc brake adapter hose for a 95 Ford Explorer. The passenger side has the t-joint built in with the inlet hose crimped on (I needed to eliminate that). I also burned up a harbor freight grinder (I'm not surprised). I have two because I'm lazy about changing heads, so no hiccup here!



Removing the rear springs and budget lift pucks.



The new springs.



Bye bye stock arms!



Look Ma' no rear axle!



Welded on the upper brackets.



Cut/grinded off the stock lower brackets and painted the bare area.



Slid the new axle under.

Another shot sitting under the Jeep.



Upper control arms.

-Skip some bolting- And sitting on rear tires!

Today I have to figure out the rear sway bar, shock mounts, and parking brake in the rear. Then I move to the front, on which I will also install a Currie tie rod system -and if time permits, a hydro assist PSC steering setup. I have to remove the light bar, it won't fit out of the garage now :)

Things I am grateful for during this build. PB Blaster!! Everything thus far has come right off. I applied once a week ago, and again three days ago.

Continued - Part 5