Long Arm VS Short Arm

[MIMPARTY]

Hello all. Im wondering the difference. Any replies appreciated. I have a 2005 TJ X stock now but with plenty of scratches from 13 states.

[Jeffb_79]

It really depends on what your goals are. Keep in mind, most long arm lifts are priced between $2-3k while most short arm kits are between $900-$1500.
The longer control arms of the long arm kits offer better articulation. Most of the rigs with long arm lifts that I've rode in ride extremely well on road, better than stock in my opinion. Most long arm lifts will also require some modification to your exhaust.
If this is your daily driver and you don't plan on going with more than a 4" lift and 33-35 inch tires, I wouldn't waste the extra money on a long arm lift. A well put together short arm kit will work just fine.

[MIMPARTY]

Thanks that is what I have been reading. Do you have any suggestions for a short arm kit?

[Jeffb_79]

I had the rubicon express 3.5" superflex on my last jeep and it rode great for the year I had it. Although I've been hearing lately that they have issues with the bushings wearing out. If I was going to do another short arm kit, I would probably piece mine together with control arms and trackbar from currie and springs/shocks from ome.

What size lift are you looking for? Another thing to keep in mind is that any lift over 3.5" will probably require a slip yoke eliminator. 3.5" and below you could get away with a t-case drop.

The main thing I would look for in a lift is to find one that replaces the important parts... something with adjustable control arms and track bars, extended brake lines and springs, quick disco's. Most kits sell shocks seperately, I'd recommend not going cheap here cause it will affect the harshness of your ride. OME, bilsteins, re monotubes, etc.

[FrankZ]

There really is no comparison. Long Arms win in every category. Smoother on and off-road ride, greater flex and articulaton.

[Fred]

There really is no comparison. Long Arms win in every category. Smoother on and off-road ride, greater flex and articulaton.

I disagree with this staement. I have personally witnessed a well built short arm kit out wheel a Long Arm kit on comprable jeeps. It is a matter of your goals really.

[FrankZ]

More likely driver skill.

[MIMPARTY]

Thanks all. I am looking at 3.5 or less because i am keeping the jeep as a daily driver for now.

[korisu56]

I would follow Jeff_79's advice. No more than 3.5, piece that sucker together. I have a 4.5" Super Flex from Rubicon Express and have been very happy with it, but if I could do it again, I'd piece it together so that I could have adjustable lowers too.

[yellow_snocone]

im think of doing the same thing getting a 3.5 any ideas on where to look for all the extras