Carl S

Not as of yet. He's in a hurry to sell and I'm still cross country. I listed
it on the Richmond Jeepers board for him. If he's still got it whenever I
get back over there, I'll probably buy it from him, but at that price, it'll
be gone. No matter, I'm happy to build my XJ a little. I'm thinking a 3.5"
RE lift, lunchbox locker in the rear, and some 31" M/T's.

Eventually I'll boost it with a 3" coil spring spacer, 1.5" block and 1.5"
shackle and a long arm kit. When the springs wear out, I'll replace them
with 6 or 7" ones.

The trick is to build what you can upgrade and re-use as much as you can. I
know a lot of people who buy a small lift, then a big lift, and ect. It's
called 'incrementalism' and it is a huge waste of money.

Carl


"The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
news:ergk65$ik7$1@aioe.org...
> There's no way I'll teach myself to weld on the suspension links, there's
> plenty more I plan on doing before then - bumpers, rocker guards, maybe a
> cage. Who knows? My plans are way too grand, I know that much. It'll be
> a while before I start trying to link anything. FWIW, my brother-in-law's
> father is a master welder, so I'll have help learning. I also need to
> look into a class around here.
>
> By the way, did you buy that YJ from Norfolk?
>
> Carl S wrote:
>> If you decide to build your own crossmember and arms, take a lot of
>> pictures and notes and do a write up so we can do it to. If you aren't an
>> experianced welder, start soon. Make lots and lots of quarters. Control
>> arms aren't the best things to learn on. Suspension welds must be
>> PERFECT.
>>
>> Let me know what you decide what to do.
>>
>> Carl
>>
>>
>>
>> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
>> news:ergdqf$6s3$1@aioe.org...
>>> From what I've read, adding just the XJ main leaf will gain about 1.5",
>>> obviously depending on the wear.
>>>
>>> I think you underestimate my stubborness and self-delusion. The only
>>> thing holding me back is a lack of tools and the fact that I don't know
>>> how to weld, but both are relatively easy to fix.
>>> There's plenty of info around on the internet about the physics of
>>> building a linked suspension (link length, anti-squat, steering setups,
>>> etc.), my pops is a mechanical engineer, and I'm way too smart for my
>>> own good - all of these add up to me getting in way over my head. That's
>>> why I'm doing this stuff, though. I hate the idea of putting something
>>> on my Jeeps that I could've built myself and, mostly, I love a
>>> challenge.
>>> However, that stuff won't be for a little while - at least until my bank
>>> account gains some weight.
>>>
>>> I'll look into the blocks and stuff - it'll probably come down to what I
>>> figure out about the ZJ V8 springs.
>>>
>>> Carl S wrote:
>>>> I used stock control arms with the spacers. The ride and flex were
>>>> great. Making your own crossmember and control arms is a HUGE task,
>>>> everything must be perfect. It's the sortof project where 'if you have
>>>> to ask, you shouldn't do it'. By the time you get any lift from adding
>>>> XJ leafs to your pack, the ride will be pretty stiff. Maybe add one
>>>> leaf and a 1.5" shackle.
>>>>
>>>> Blocks less than .75" don't substantially contribute to axle wrap.
>>>>
>>>> Carl
>>

The Merg

I'd offer to take delivery of it for you, but my house is already a used
car lot, I just don't know where I'd put it.

I don't see any reason to incrementalize my builds because I don't have
the cash for it and redundant building of any kind bothers me. I'm all
about stuff that I can reuse and like most Jeepers, I have no problem
hitting the junkyards. And I definitely want to utilize the sawzall
where I can as opposed to trying to put 10" of lift on.

I definitely like the way RE puts their kits together, it seems like you
can buy one kit and then upgrade it as your truck progresses. In a way,
it's incrementalism, but it seems like a more logical version. From
what I've heard, they're pretty quality too.

What size tires are you running on the XJ now?

By the way, I think I'm going to Herculine the XJ, since I'm already
gonna hit the two YJs. Should be sweet.


Carl S wrote:
> Not as of yet. He's in a hurry to sell and I'm still cross country. I listed
> it on the Richmond Jeepers board for him. If he's still got it whenever I
> get back over there, I'll probably buy it from him, but at that price, it'll
> be gone. No matter, I'm happy to build my XJ a little. I'm thinking a 3.5"
> RE lift, lunchbox locker in the rear, and some 31" M/T's.
>
> Eventually I'll boost it with a 3" coil spring spacer, 1.5" block and 1.5"
> shackle and a long arm kit. When the springs wear out, I'll replace them
> with 6 or 7" ones.
>
> The trick is to build what you can upgrade and re-use as much as you can. I
> know a lot of people who buy a small lift, then a big lift, and ect. It's
> called 'incrementalism' and it is a huge waste of money.
>
> Carl
>
>
> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
> news:ergk65$ik7$1@aioe.org...
>> There's no way I'll teach myself to weld on the suspension links, there's
>> plenty more I plan on doing before then - bumpers, rocker guards, maybe a
>> cage. Who knows? My plans are way too grand, I know that much. It'll be
>> a while before I start trying to link anything. FWIW, my brother-in-law's
>> father is a master welder, so I'll have help learning. I also need to
>> look into a class around here.
>>
>> By the way, did you buy that YJ from Norfolk?
>>
>> Carl S wrote:
>>> If you decide to build your own crossmember and arms, take a lot of
>>> pictures and notes and do a write up so we can do it to. If you aren't an
>>> experianced welder, start soon. Make lots and lots of quarters. Control
>>> arms aren't the best things to learn on. Suspension welds must be
>>> PERFECT.
>>>
>>> Let me know what you decide what to do.
>>>
>>> Carl
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
>>> news:ergdqf$6s3$1@aioe.org...
>>>> From what I've read, adding just the XJ main leaf will gain about 1.5",
>>>> obviously depending on the wear.
>>>>
>>>> I think you underestimate my stubborness and self-delusion. The only
>>>> thing holding me back is a lack of tools and the fact that I don't know
>>>> how to weld, but both are relatively easy to fix.
>>>> There's plenty of info around on the internet about the physics of
>>>> building a linked suspension (link length, anti-squat, steering setups,
>>>> etc.), my pops is a mechanical engineer, and I'm way too smart for my
>>>> own good - all of these add up to me getting in way over my head. That's
>>>> why I'm doing this stuff, though. I hate the idea of putting something
>>>> on my Jeeps that I could've built myself and, mostly, I love a
>>>> challenge.
>>>> However, that stuff won't be for a little while - at least until my bank
>>>> account gains some weight.
>>>>
>>>> I'll look into the blocks and stuff - it'll probably come down to what I
>>>> figure out about the ZJ V8 springs.
>>>>
>>>> Carl S wrote:
>>>>> I used stock control arms with the spacers. The ride and flex were
>>>>> great. Making your own crossmember and control arms is a HUGE task,
>>>>> everything must be perfect. It's the sortof project where 'if you have
>>>>> to ask, you shouldn't do it'. By the time you get any lift from adding
>>>>> XJ leafs to your pack, the ride will be pretty stiff. Maybe add one
>>>>> leaf and a 1.5" shackle.
>>>>>
>>>>> Blocks less than .75" don't substantially contribute to axle wrap.
>>>>>
>>>>> Carl
>

The Merg

I'd offer to take delivery of it for you, but my house is already a used
car lot, I just don't know where I'd put it.

I don't see any reason to incrementalize my builds because I don't have
the cash for it and redundant building of any kind bothers me. I'm all
about stuff that I can reuse and like most Jeepers, I have no problem
hitting the junkyards. And I definitely want to utilize the sawzall
where I can as opposed to trying to put 10" of lift on.

I definitely like the way RE puts their kits together, it seems like you
can buy one kit and then upgrade it as your truck progresses. In a way,
it's incrementalism, but it seems like a more logical version. From
what I've heard, they're pretty quality too.

What size tires are you running on the XJ now?

By the way, I think I'm going to Herculine the XJ, since I'm already
gonna hit the two YJs. Should be sweet.


Carl S wrote:
> Not as of yet. He's in a hurry to sell and I'm still cross country. I listed
> it on the Richmond Jeepers board for him. If he's still got it whenever I
> get back over there, I'll probably buy it from him, but at that price, it'll
> be gone. No matter, I'm happy to build my XJ a little. I'm thinking a 3.5"
> RE lift, lunchbox locker in the rear, and some 31" M/T's.
>
> Eventually I'll boost it with a 3" coil spring spacer, 1.5" block and 1.5"
> shackle and a long arm kit. When the springs wear out, I'll replace them
> with 6 or 7" ones.
>
> The trick is to build what you can upgrade and re-use as much as you can. I
> know a lot of people who buy a small lift, then a big lift, and ect. It's
> called 'incrementalism' and it is a huge waste of money.
>
> Carl
>
>
> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
> news:ergk65$ik7$1@aioe.org...
>> There's no way I'll teach myself to weld on the suspension links, there's
>> plenty more I plan on doing before then - bumpers, rocker guards, maybe a
>> cage. Who knows? My plans are way too grand, I know that much. It'll be
>> a while before I start trying to link anything. FWIW, my brother-in-law's
>> father is a master welder, so I'll have help learning. I also need to
>> look into a class around here.
>>
>> By the way, did you buy that YJ from Norfolk?
>>
>> Carl S wrote:
>>> If you decide to build your own crossmember and arms, take a lot of
>>> pictures and notes and do a write up so we can do it to. If you aren't an
>>> experianced welder, start soon. Make lots and lots of quarters. Control
>>> arms aren't the best things to learn on. Suspension welds must be
>>> PERFECT.
>>>
>>> Let me know what you decide what to do.
>>>
>>> Carl
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
>>> news:ergdqf$6s3$1@aioe.org...
>>>> From what I've read, adding just the XJ main leaf will gain about 1.5",
>>>> obviously depending on the wear.
>>>>
>>>> I think you underestimate my stubborness and self-delusion. The only
>>>> thing holding me back is a lack of tools and the fact that I don't know
>>>> how to weld, but both are relatively easy to fix.
>>>> There's plenty of info around on the internet about the physics of
>>>> building a linked suspension (link length, anti-squat, steering setups,
>>>> etc.), my pops is a mechanical engineer, and I'm way too smart for my
>>>> own good - all of these add up to me getting in way over my head. That's
>>>> why I'm doing this stuff, though. I hate the idea of putting something
>>>> on my Jeeps that I could've built myself and, mostly, I love a
>>>> challenge.
>>>> However, that stuff won't be for a little while - at least until my bank
>>>> account gains some weight.
>>>>
>>>> I'll look into the blocks and stuff - it'll probably come down to what I
>>>> figure out about the ZJ V8 springs.
>>>>
>>>> Carl S wrote:
>>>>> I used stock control arms with the spacers. The ride and flex were
>>>>> great. Making your own crossmember and control arms is a HUGE task,
>>>>> everything must be perfect. It's the sortof project where 'if you have
>>>>> to ask, you shouldn't do it'. By the time you get any lift from adding
>>>>> XJ leafs to your pack, the ride will be pretty stiff. Maybe add one
>>>>> leaf and a 1.5" shackle.
>>>>>
>>>>> Blocks less than .75" don't substantially contribute to axle wrap.
>>>>>
>>>>> Carl
>

The Merg

I'd offer to take delivery of it for you, but my house is already a used
car lot, I just don't know where I'd put it.

I don't see any reason to incrementalize my builds because I don't have
the cash for it and redundant building of any kind bothers me. I'm all
about stuff that I can reuse and like most Jeepers, I have no problem
hitting the junkyards. And I definitely want to utilize the sawzall
where I can as opposed to trying to put 10" of lift on.

I definitely like the way RE puts their kits together, it seems like you
can buy one kit and then upgrade it as your truck progresses. In a way,
it's incrementalism, but it seems like a more logical version. From
what I've heard, they're pretty quality too.

What size tires are you running on the XJ now?

By the way, I think I'm going to Herculine the XJ, since I'm already
gonna hit the two YJs. Should be sweet.


Carl S wrote:
> Not as of yet. He's in a hurry to sell and I'm still cross country. I listed
> it on the Richmond Jeepers board for him. If he's still got it whenever I
> get back over there, I'll probably buy it from him, but at that price, it'll
> be gone. No matter, I'm happy to build my XJ a little. I'm thinking a 3.5"
> RE lift, lunchbox locker in the rear, and some 31" M/T's.
>
> Eventually I'll boost it with a 3" coil spring spacer, 1.5" block and 1.5"
> shackle and a long arm kit. When the springs wear out, I'll replace them
> with 6 or 7" ones.
>
> The trick is to build what you can upgrade and re-use as much as you can. I
> know a lot of people who buy a small lift, then a big lift, and ect. It's
> called 'incrementalism' and it is a huge waste of money.
>
> Carl
>
>
> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
> news:ergk65$ik7$1@aioe.org...
>> There's no way I'll teach myself to weld on the suspension links, there's
>> plenty more I plan on doing before then - bumpers, rocker guards, maybe a
>> cage. Who knows? My plans are way too grand, I know that much. It'll be
>> a while before I start trying to link anything. FWIW, my brother-in-law's
>> father is a master welder, so I'll have help learning. I also need to
>> look into a class around here.
>>
>> By the way, did you buy that YJ from Norfolk?
>>
>> Carl S wrote:
>>> If you decide to build your own crossmember and arms, take a lot of
>>> pictures and notes and do a write up so we can do it to. If you aren't an
>>> experianced welder, start soon. Make lots and lots of quarters. Control
>>> arms aren't the best things to learn on. Suspension welds must be
>>> PERFECT.
>>>
>>> Let me know what you decide what to do.
>>>
>>> Carl
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
>>> news:ergdqf$6s3$1@aioe.org...
>>>> From what I've read, adding just the XJ main leaf will gain about 1.5",
>>>> obviously depending on the wear.
>>>>
>>>> I think you underestimate my stubborness and self-delusion. The only
>>>> thing holding me back is a lack of tools and the fact that I don't know
>>>> how to weld, but both are relatively easy to fix.
>>>> There's plenty of info around on the internet about the physics of
>>>> building a linked suspension (link length, anti-squat, steering setups,
>>>> etc.), my pops is a mechanical engineer, and I'm way too smart for my
>>>> own good - all of these add up to me getting in way over my head. That's
>>>> why I'm doing this stuff, though. I hate the idea of putting something
>>>> on my Jeeps that I could've built myself and, mostly, I love a
>>>> challenge.
>>>> However, that stuff won't be for a little while - at least until my bank
>>>> account gains some weight.
>>>>
>>>> I'll look into the blocks and stuff - it'll probably come down to what I
>>>> figure out about the ZJ V8 springs.
>>>>
>>>> Carl S wrote:
>>>>> I used stock control arms with the spacers. The ride and flex were
>>>>> great. Making your own crossmember and control arms is a HUGE task,
>>>>> everything must be perfect. It's the sortof project where 'if you have
>>>>> to ask, you shouldn't do it'. By the time you get any lift from adding
>>>>> XJ leafs to your pack, the ride will be pretty stiff. Maybe add one
>>>>> leaf and a 1.5" shackle.
>>>>>
>>>>> Blocks less than .75" don't substantially contribute to axle wrap.
>>>>>
>>>>> Carl
>

Carl S

Always avoid incrementalism whenever possible. I suppose I will be going the
incremental route, but I will be able to sell the LCA's that come with the
3.5" lift kit, and I'll run the 3.5" springs till they are no good, or sell
them when I get the taller springs.

One good thing about the way I will be doing is it that I don't have to do
it all at once. I can do the initial lift, then the Long arms with the
budget boost, then the SYE, then the springs. Helps to break up the cost and
time.

Carl


"The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
news:ergljs$m2l$1@aioe.org...
> I'd offer to take delivery of it for you, but my house is already a used
> car lot, I just don't know where I'd put it.
>
> I don't see any reason to incrementalize my builds because I don't have
> the cash for it and redundant building of any kind bothers me. I'm all
> about stuff that I can reuse and like most Jeepers, I have no problem
> hitting the junkyards. And I definitely want to utilize the sawzall where
> I can as opposed to trying to put 10" of lift on.
>
> I definitely like the way RE puts their kits together, it seems like you
> can buy one kit and then upgrade it as your truck progresses. In a way,
> it's incrementalism, but it seems like a more logical version. From what
> I've heard, they're pretty quality too.
>
> What size tires are you running on the XJ now?
>
> By the way, I think I'm going to Herculine the XJ, since I'm already gonna
> hit the two YJs. Should be sweet.
>
>
> Carl S wrote:
>> Not as of yet. He's in a hurry to sell and I'm still cross country. I
>> listed it on the Richmond Jeepers board for him. If he's still got it
>> whenever I get back over there, I'll probably buy it from him, but at
>> that price, it'll be gone. No matter, I'm happy to build my XJ a little.
>> I'm thinking a 3.5" RE lift, lunchbox locker in the rear, and some 31"
>> M/T's.
>>
>> Eventually I'll boost it with a 3" coil spring spacer, 1.5" block and
>> 1.5" shackle and a long arm kit. When the springs wear out, I'll replace
>> them with 6 or 7" ones.
>>
>> The trick is to build what you can upgrade and re-use as much as you can.
>> I know a lot of people who buy a small lift, then a big lift, and ect.
>> It's called 'incrementalism' and it is a huge waste of money.
>>
>> Carl
>>
>>
>> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
>> news:ergk65$ik7$1@aioe.org...
>>> There's no way I'll teach myself to weld on the suspension links,
>>> there's plenty more I plan on doing before then - bumpers, rocker
>>> guards, maybe a cage. Who knows? My plans are way too grand, I know
>>> that much. It'll be a while before I start trying to link anything.
>>> FWIW, my brother-in-law's father is a master welder, so I'll have help
>>> learning. I also need to look into a class around here.
>>>
>>> By the way, did you buy that YJ from Norfolk?
>>>
>>> Carl S wrote:
>>>> If you decide to build your own crossmember and arms, take a lot of
>>>> pictures and notes and do a write up so we can do it to. If you aren't
>>>> an experianced welder, start soon. Make lots and lots of quarters.
>>>> Control arms aren't the best things to learn on. Suspension welds must
>>>> be PERFECT.
>>>>
>>>> Let me know what you decide what to do.
>>>>
>>>> Carl
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
>>>> news:ergdqf$6s3$1@aioe.org...
>>>>> From what I've read, adding just the XJ main leaf will gain about
>>>>> 1.5", obviously depending on the wear.
>>>>>
>>>>> I think you underestimate my stubborness and self-delusion. The only
>>>>> thing holding me back is a lack of tools and the fact that I don't
>>>>> know how to weld, but both are relatively easy to fix.
>>>>> There's plenty of info around on the internet about the physics of
>>>>> building a linked suspension (link length, anti-squat, steering
>>>>> setups, etc.), my pops is a mechanical engineer, and I'm way too smart
>>>>> for my own good - all of these add up to me getting in way over my
>>>>> head. That's why I'm doing this stuff, though. I hate the idea of
>>>>> putting something on my Jeeps that I could've built myself and,
>>>>> mostly, I love a challenge.
>>>>> However, that stuff won't be for a little while - at least until my
>>>>> bank account gains some weight.
>>>>>
>>>>> I'll look into the blocks and stuff - it'll probably come down to what
>>>>> I figure out about the ZJ V8 springs.
>>>>>
>>>>> Carl S wrote:
>>>>>> I used stock control arms with the spacers. The ride and flex were
>>>>>> great. Making your own crossmember and control arms is a HUGE task,
>>>>>> everything must be perfect. It's the sortof project where 'if you
>>>>>> have to ask, you shouldn't do it'. By the time you get any lift from
>>>>>> adding XJ leafs to your pack, the ride will be pretty stiff. Maybe
>>>>>> add one leaf and a 1.5" shackle.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Blocks less than .75" don't substantially contribute to axle wrap.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Carl
>>

Carl S

Always avoid incrementalism whenever possible. I suppose I will be going the
incremental route, but I will be able to sell the LCA's that come with the
3.5" lift kit, and I'll run the 3.5" springs till they are no good, or sell
them when I get the taller springs.

One good thing about the way I will be doing is it that I don't have to do
it all at once. I can do the initial lift, then the Long arms with the
budget boost, then the SYE, then the springs. Helps to break up the cost and
time.

Carl


"The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
news:ergljs$m2l$1@aioe.org...
> I'd offer to take delivery of it for you, but my house is already a used
> car lot, I just don't know where I'd put it.
>
> I don't see any reason to incrementalize my builds because I don't have
> the cash for it and redundant building of any kind bothers me. I'm all
> about stuff that I can reuse and like most Jeepers, I have no problem
> hitting the junkyards. And I definitely want to utilize the sawzall where
> I can as opposed to trying to put 10" of lift on.
>
> I definitely like the way RE puts their kits together, it seems like you
> can buy one kit and then upgrade it as your truck progresses. In a way,
> it's incrementalism, but it seems like a more logical version. From what
> I've heard, they're pretty quality too.
>
> What size tires are you running on the XJ now?
>
> By the way, I think I'm going to Herculine the XJ, since I'm already gonna
> hit the two YJs. Should be sweet.
>
>
> Carl S wrote:
>> Not as of yet. He's in a hurry to sell and I'm still cross country. I
>> listed it on the Richmond Jeepers board for him. If he's still got it
>> whenever I get back over there, I'll probably buy it from him, but at
>> that price, it'll be gone. No matter, I'm happy to build my XJ a little.
>> I'm thinking a 3.5" RE lift, lunchbox locker in the rear, and some 31"
>> M/T's.
>>
>> Eventually I'll boost it with a 3" coil spring spacer, 1.5" block and
>> 1.5" shackle and a long arm kit. When the springs wear out, I'll replace
>> them with 6 or 7" ones.
>>
>> The trick is to build what you can upgrade and re-use as much as you can.
>> I know a lot of people who buy a small lift, then a big lift, and ect.
>> It's called 'incrementalism' and it is a huge waste of money.
>>
>> Carl
>>
>>
>> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
>> news:ergk65$ik7$1@aioe.org...
>>> There's no way I'll teach myself to weld on the suspension links,
>>> there's plenty more I plan on doing before then - bumpers, rocker
>>> guards, maybe a cage. Who knows? My plans are way too grand, I know
>>> that much. It'll be a while before I start trying to link anything.
>>> FWIW, my brother-in-law's father is a master welder, so I'll have help
>>> learning. I also need to look into a class around here.
>>>
>>> By the way, did you buy that YJ from Norfolk?
>>>
>>> Carl S wrote:
>>>> If you decide to build your own crossmember and arms, take a lot of
>>>> pictures and notes and do a write up so we can do it to. If you aren't
>>>> an experianced welder, start soon. Make lots and lots of quarters.
>>>> Control arms aren't the best things to learn on. Suspension welds must
>>>> be PERFECT.
>>>>
>>>> Let me know what you decide what to do.
>>>>
>>>> Carl
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
>>>> news:ergdqf$6s3$1@aioe.org...
>>>>> From what I've read, adding just the XJ main leaf will gain about
>>>>> 1.5", obviously depending on the wear.
>>>>>
>>>>> I think you underestimate my stubborness and self-delusion. The only
>>>>> thing holding me back is a lack of tools and the fact that I don't
>>>>> know how to weld, but both are relatively easy to fix.
>>>>> There's plenty of info around on the internet about the physics of
>>>>> building a linked suspension (link length, anti-squat, steering
>>>>> setups, etc.), my pops is a mechanical engineer, and I'm way too smart
>>>>> for my own good - all of these add up to me getting in way over my
>>>>> head. That's why I'm doing this stuff, though. I hate the idea of
>>>>> putting something on my Jeeps that I could've built myself and,
>>>>> mostly, I love a challenge.
>>>>> However, that stuff won't be for a little while - at least until my
>>>>> bank account gains some weight.
>>>>>
>>>>> I'll look into the blocks and stuff - it'll probably come down to what
>>>>> I figure out about the ZJ V8 springs.
>>>>>
>>>>> Carl S wrote:
>>>>>> I used stock control arms with the spacers. The ride and flex were
>>>>>> great. Making your own crossmember and control arms is a HUGE task,
>>>>>> everything must be perfect. It's the sortof project where 'if you
>>>>>> have to ask, you shouldn't do it'. By the time you get any lift from
>>>>>> adding XJ leafs to your pack, the ride will be pretty stiff. Maybe
>>>>>> add one leaf and a 1.5" shackle.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Blocks less than .75" don't substantially contribute to axle wrap.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Carl
>>

Carl S

Always avoid incrementalism whenever possible. I suppose I will be going the
incremental route, but I will be able to sell the LCA's that come with the
3.5" lift kit, and I'll run the 3.5" springs till they are no good, or sell
them when I get the taller springs.

One good thing about the way I will be doing is it that I don't have to do
it all at once. I can do the initial lift, then the Long arms with the
budget boost, then the SYE, then the springs. Helps to break up the cost and
time.

Carl


"The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
news:ergljs$m2l$1@aioe.org...
> I'd offer to take delivery of it for you, but my house is already a used
> car lot, I just don't know where I'd put it.
>
> I don't see any reason to incrementalize my builds because I don't have
> the cash for it and redundant building of any kind bothers me. I'm all
> about stuff that I can reuse and like most Jeepers, I have no problem
> hitting the junkyards. And I definitely want to utilize the sawzall where
> I can as opposed to trying to put 10" of lift on.
>
> I definitely like the way RE puts their kits together, it seems like you
> can buy one kit and then upgrade it as your truck progresses. In a way,
> it's incrementalism, but it seems like a more logical version. From what
> I've heard, they're pretty quality too.
>
> What size tires are you running on the XJ now?
>
> By the way, I think I'm going to Herculine the XJ, since I'm already gonna
> hit the two YJs. Should be sweet.
>
>
> Carl S wrote:
>> Not as of yet. He's in a hurry to sell and I'm still cross country. I
>> listed it on the Richmond Jeepers board for him. If he's still got it
>> whenever I get back over there, I'll probably buy it from him, but at
>> that price, it'll be gone. No matter, I'm happy to build my XJ a little.
>> I'm thinking a 3.5" RE lift, lunchbox locker in the rear, and some 31"
>> M/T's.
>>
>> Eventually I'll boost it with a 3" coil spring spacer, 1.5" block and
>> 1.5" shackle and a long arm kit. When the springs wear out, I'll replace
>> them with 6 or 7" ones.
>>
>> The trick is to build what you can upgrade and re-use as much as you can.
>> I know a lot of people who buy a small lift, then a big lift, and ect.
>> It's called 'incrementalism' and it is a huge waste of money.
>>
>> Carl
>>
>>
>> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
>> news:ergk65$ik7$1@aioe.org...
>>> There's no way I'll teach myself to weld on the suspension links,
>>> there's plenty more I plan on doing before then - bumpers, rocker
>>> guards, maybe a cage. Who knows? My plans are way too grand, I know
>>> that much. It'll be a while before I start trying to link anything.
>>> FWIW, my brother-in-law's father is a master welder, so I'll have help
>>> learning. I also need to look into a class around here.
>>>
>>> By the way, did you buy that YJ from Norfolk?
>>>
>>> Carl S wrote:
>>>> If you decide to build your own crossmember and arms, take a lot of
>>>> pictures and notes and do a write up so we can do it to. If you aren't
>>>> an experianced welder, start soon. Make lots and lots of quarters.
>>>> Control arms aren't the best things to learn on. Suspension welds must
>>>> be PERFECT.
>>>>
>>>> Let me know what you decide what to do.
>>>>
>>>> Carl
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
>>>> news:ergdqf$6s3$1@aioe.org...
>>>>> From what I've read, adding just the XJ main leaf will gain about
>>>>> 1.5", obviously depending on the wear.
>>>>>
>>>>> I think you underestimate my stubborness and self-delusion. The only
>>>>> thing holding me back is a lack of tools and the fact that I don't
>>>>> know how to weld, but both are relatively easy to fix.
>>>>> There's plenty of info around on the internet about the physics of
>>>>> building a linked suspension (link length, anti-squat, steering
>>>>> setups, etc.), my pops is a mechanical engineer, and I'm way too smart
>>>>> for my own good - all of these add up to me getting in way over my
>>>>> head. That's why I'm doing this stuff, though. I hate the idea of
>>>>> putting something on my Jeeps that I could've built myself and,
>>>>> mostly, I love a challenge.
>>>>> However, that stuff won't be for a little while - at least until my
>>>>> bank account gains some weight.
>>>>>
>>>>> I'll look into the blocks and stuff - it'll probably come down to what
>>>>> I figure out about the ZJ V8 springs.
>>>>>
>>>>> Carl S wrote:
>>>>>> I used stock control arms with the spacers. The ride and flex were
>>>>>> great. Making your own crossmember and control arms is a HUGE task,
>>>>>> everything must be perfect. It's the sortof project where 'if you
>>>>>> have to ask, you shouldn't do it'. By the time you get any lift from
>>>>>> adding XJ leafs to your pack, the ride will be pretty stiff. Maybe
>>>>>> add one leaf and a 1.5" shackle.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Blocks less than .75" don't substantially contribute to axle wrap.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Carl
>>

The Merg

Quick update, I found some info on the ZJ/XJ coil debate at
jeepsunlimited:
http://www.jeepsunlimited.com/forums...spring+lift+xj
Thanks to Billy Ray for the heads up.

Carl S wrote:
> Always avoid incrementalism whenever possible. I suppose I will be going the
> incremental route, but I will be able to sell the LCA's that come with the
> 3.5" lift kit, and I'll run the 3.5" springs till they are no good, or sell
> them when I get the taller springs.
>
> One good thing about the way I will be doing is it that I don't have to do
> it all at once. I can do the initial lift, then the Long arms with the
> budget boost, then the SYE, then the springs. Helps to break up the cost and
> time.
>
> Carl
>
>
> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
> news:ergljs$m2l$1@aioe.org...
>> I'd offer to take delivery of it for you, but my house is already a used
>> car lot, I just don't know where I'd put it.
>>
>> I don't see any reason to incrementalize my builds because I don't have
>> the cash for it and redundant building of any kind bothers me. I'm all
>> about stuff that I can reuse and like most Jeepers, I have no problem
>> hitting the junkyards. And I definitely want to utilize the sawzall where
>> I can as opposed to trying to put 10" of lift on.
>>
>> I definitely like the way RE puts their kits together, it seems like you
>> can buy one kit and then upgrade it as your truck progresses. In a way,
>> it's incrementalism, but it seems like a more logical version. From what
>> I've heard, they're pretty quality too.
>>
>> What size tires are you running on the XJ now?
>>
>> By the way, I think I'm going to Herculine the XJ, since I'm already gonna
>> hit the two YJs. Should be sweet.
>>
>>

The Merg

Quick update, I found some info on the ZJ/XJ coil debate at
jeepsunlimited:
http://www.jeepsunlimited.com/forums...spring+lift+xj
Thanks to Billy Ray for the heads up.

Carl S wrote:
> Always avoid incrementalism whenever possible. I suppose I will be going the
> incremental route, but I will be able to sell the LCA's that come with the
> 3.5" lift kit, and I'll run the 3.5" springs till they are no good, or sell
> them when I get the taller springs.
>
> One good thing about the way I will be doing is it that I don't have to do
> it all at once. I can do the initial lift, then the Long arms with the
> budget boost, then the SYE, then the springs. Helps to break up the cost and
> time.
>
> Carl
>
>
> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
> news:ergljs$m2l$1@aioe.org...
>> I'd offer to take delivery of it for you, but my house is already a used
>> car lot, I just don't know where I'd put it.
>>
>> I don't see any reason to incrementalize my builds because I don't have
>> the cash for it and redundant building of any kind bothers me. I'm all
>> about stuff that I can reuse and like most Jeepers, I have no problem
>> hitting the junkyards. And I definitely want to utilize the sawzall where
>> I can as opposed to trying to put 10" of lift on.
>>
>> I definitely like the way RE puts their kits together, it seems like you
>> can buy one kit and then upgrade it as your truck progresses. In a way,
>> it's incrementalism, but it seems like a more logical version. From what
>> I've heard, they're pretty quality too.
>>
>> What size tires are you running on the XJ now?
>>
>> By the way, I think I'm going to Herculine the XJ, since I'm already gonna
>> hit the two YJs. Should be sweet.
>>
>>

The Merg

Quick update, I found some info on the ZJ/XJ coil debate at
jeepsunlimited:
http://www.jeepsunlimited.com/forums...spring+lift+xj
Thanks to Billy Ray for the heads up.

Carl S wrote:
> Always avoid incrementalism whenever possible. I suppose I will be going the
> incremental route, but I will be able to sell the LCA's that come with the
> 3.5" lift kit, and I'll run the 3.5" springs till they are no good, or sell
> them when I get the taller springs.
>
> One good thing about the way I will be doing is it that I don't have to do
> it all at once. I can do the initial lift, then the Long arms with the
> budget boost, then the SYE, then the springs. Helps to break up the cost and
> time.
>
> Carl
>
>
> "The Merg" <greg.mergner@REMOVEgmail.com> wrote in message
> news:ergljs$m2l$1@aioe.org...
>> I'd offer to take delivery of it for you, but my house is already a used
>> car lot, I just don't know where I'd put it.
>>
>> I don't see any reason to incrementalize my builds because I don't have
>> the cash for it and redundant building of any kind bothers me. I'm all
>> about stuff that I can reuse and like most Jeepers, I have no problem
>> hitting the junkyards. And I definitely want to utilize the sawzall where
>> I can as opposed to trying to put 10" of lift on.
>>
>> I definitely like the way RE puts their kits together, it seems like you
>> can buy one kit and then upgrade it as your truck progresses. In a way,
>> it's incrementalism, but it seems like a more logical version. From what
>> I've heard, they're pretty quality too.
>>
>> What size tires are you running on the XJ now?
>>
>> By the way, I think I'm going to Herculine the XJ, since I'm already gonna
>> hit the two YJs. Should be sweet.
>>
>>