Jeep WJ: Rough Country 2-Inch Lift Kit Guide

Hey guys! So, you're looking to lift your Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ and are checking out the Rough Country 2-inch lift kit? Awesome choice! This lift is a super popular way to give your WJ a more aggressive stance, improve off-road capability, and fit larger tires. Let's dive deep into everything you need to know about this upgrade, from what's included to the installation process and real-world performance. This guide will help you decide if it’s the right lift for your needs.

Why Choose a 2-Inch Lift for Your Jeep WJ?

First off, why a 2-inch lift? Well, a 2-inch lift for your Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ offers a sweet spot between improved off-road performance and maintaining decent on-road manners. It's not so high that you need to make extensive modifications or worry about major changes to the vehicle's handling. At the same time, it provides enough lift to clear larger tires, giving you better ground clearance and enhancing your off-road adventures. You can easily upgrade to 31-inch tires (or even 32-inch with some minor trimming). The Rough Country 2-inch lift also levels out the vehicle's stance. This is because the WJ has a factory rake (the rear sits slightly higher than the front). The lift eliminates this, giving it a more balanced and visually appealing look. Furthermore, a 2-inch lift is generally considered a moderate lift, which means it won't drastically alter your Jeep's center of gravity. This translates to more stable handling, especially on the road. So, it's a great option if your daily driver doubles as your weekend warrior! You get a lift that is easy to install. The Rough Country kit comes with everything you need. You will get new front and rear coil springs, shocks, and all the necessary hardware. This simplifies the installation process and reduces the chances of having to hunt down individual parts. Ultimately, a 2-inch lift is a fantastic entry point into the world of Jeep modifications, offering a balanced blend of off-road prowess, on-road comfort, and ease of installation. It's a significant upgrade that enhances both the look and capability of your WJ without going overboard.

What's Included in the Rough Country 2-Inch Lift Kit?

Alright, so what exactly do you get when you buy the Rough Country 2-inch lift kit for your Jeep WJ? Usually, the kit includes the following components: first is the Front Coil Springs: These springs are designed to provide the 2-inch lift to the front of your WJ. They are typically a bit stiffer than the factory springs to handle the increased ride height and potential for heavier loads, like a winch or aftermarket bumper. Then, there are the Rear Coil Springs: Similar to the front springs, these lift the rear end by 2 inches. Again, they're designed to handle increased loads and provide improved off-road performance. After that, we have the Front Shocks: The shocks are vital. The kit includes extended front shocks. These are longer than the factory shocks to accommodate the lift, ensuring proper suspension travel and ride quality. Also, the Rear Shocks: Just like the front, the kit will have extended rear shocks. They match the front shocks in terms of length and performance, maintaining the balance of your suspension system. Another thing is the Hardware: All the necessary hardware, such as bolts, nuts, and washers, needed for the installation. Finally, Instructions: A detailed set of instructions to guide you through the installation process. They typically include step-by-step guidance and diagrams, making the installation easier to follow.

Keep in mind that the exact components can vary slightly depending on the specific kit and any upgrades you choose. Always double-check the product description and what comes in the box before you start the installation.

Installing Your Rough Country 2-Inch Lift Kit: A Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, time for the fun part: installing your Rough Country 2-inch lift kit! Before you start, gather your tools. You'll need basic hand tools like a socket set, wrenches, a jack and jack stands, and possibly a spring compressor. Safety first, guys! Make sure your WJ is parked on a level surface, and the parking brake is engaged. Then, you'll need to disconnect the negative terminal of your battery. This is a crucial safety step before working on your vehicle's suspension. Starting with the front, remove the wheels: Loosen the lug nuts on both front wheels, then jack up the front of your WJ and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheels. Then, disconnect the sway bar links: Disconnect the sway bar links from the front lower control arms. Then, remove the shocks: Unbolt the top and bottom of the front shocks and remove them. After that, remove the coil springs: This part can get tricky. You'll need to use a spring compressor to safely compress the coil springs before removing them. Once compressed, remove the old springs. Then, install the new coil springs: Place the new coil springs in the spring pockets. You might need the spring compressor to make sure they fit properly. Then, install the new shocks: Bolt the new front shocks in place. Make sure to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. After this, you should reconnect the sway bar links: Reconnect the sway bar links to the lower control arms. After the front, move to the rear wheels: Loosen the lug nuts on both rear wheels, jack up the rear of your WJ, and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheels. Then, remove the shocks: Unbolt the top and bottom of the rear shocks and remove them. After that, remove the coil springs: Just like in the front, the rear coil springs are removed. Then, install the new coil springs: Install the new rear coil springs in the spring pockets. You shouldn't need a spring compressor for the rear springs, but this can depend. Then, install the new shocks: Bolt the new rear shocks in place. Again, make sure to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. Now you reinstall the wheels: Put the wheels back on and tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower your WJ back to the ground. Then, double-check everything: Make sure all bolts are tight and everything is properly connected. Take it for a test drive. You should be able to check your alignment immediately after the install. Then, have your Jeep WJ professionally aligned to ensure proper handling and tire wear. Installation time can vary, but plan for at least a full day, especially if it's your first time. Don't rush; take your time and follow the instructions carefully. It's always a good idea to have a friend help you.

Real-World Performance and Handling After the Lift

So, you’ve installed your Rough Country 2-inch lift, and now you're wondering what to expect in terms of real-world performance. First, expect a significant improvement in ground clearance. This lift allows you to clear obstacles that would have been impossible before, giving you more confidence on the trails. You can now easily tackle uneven terrain and rocky paths, and you can expect an improved ride quality. The new shocks included in the Rough Country kit will absorb bumps and vibrations better. This is especially noticeable on rough roads and off-road trails. Your Jeep will feel more stable and controlled. This lift also allows for the installation of larger tires. Larger tires offer increased ground clearance and improve the overall off-road capability of your WJ. You can upgrade to 31-inch tires (or 32-inch with minor modifications). Your Jeep will look more aggressive, with a more commanding presence on the road. The 2-inch lift kit gives your Jeep a more balanced and visually appealing stance, eliminating the factory rake and giving it a more level appearance. However, there are some considerations. With the lift, the center of gravity will be slightly raised, which can affect handling on the road. You may notice slightly more body roll during cornering. It's crucial to get your Jeep professionally aligned after the installation to ensure proper handling and prevent uneven tire wear. In summary, a Rough Country 2-inch lift kit significantly enhances your Jeep WJ's off-road performance, improves ride quality, and gives it a more aggressive look. Keep in mind the slight changes in on-road handling and the importance of proper alignment for optimal performance.

Potential Issues and Troubleshooting

Okay, let's talk about some potential issues you might encounter and how to troubleshoot them. One common problem is a rough or bouncy ride. This could be due to a few things. First, make sure your shocks are properly installed. Loose or damaged shocks can cause a bumpy ride. Check your tire pressure. Overinflated tires will definitely make the ride rough. Then, check your alignment. An out-of-alignment Jeep can ride poorly. If your WJ is leaning to one side, check your coil spring installation. Make sure the springs are seated correctly and that they are the correct springs for your Jeep. If you hear clunking noises, check all the bolts and nuts. Loose bolts in the suspension system can cause clunking sounds. Inspect your control arms and bushings for any signs of wear or damage. Another problem is the vibration. This could be caused by the driveshaft angles being changed. If your vibrations are bad after the install, you might need to install a transfer case drop kit or adjustable control arms. Also, alignment issues are pretty common. A proper alignment is essential after installing a lift kit. Ignoring this can cause uneven tire wear and poor handling. It’s always best to get your Jeep aligned by a professional after any suspension work. Then, there's the issue of tire rubbing. This is common, especially if you install larger tires. You might need to trim your fenders or install wheel spacers to prevent the tires from rubbing against the body or suspension components. Always make sure to double-check all connections and hardware after the first few drives. Also, don't be afraid to consult online forums or seek help from experienced Jeep enthusiasts. Troubleshooting is a part of the process, and with a bit of patience and persistence, you can resolve most issues and enjoy your lifted WJ.

Maintaining Your Lifted Jeep WJ

So, you've got your Jeep WJ lifted, and you’re ready to hit the trails or cruise the streets. But what do you need to do to keep your rig running smoothly and safely? First up, regular inspections. Regularly inspect your suspension components, including coil springs, shocks, control arms, and bushings. Look for any signs of wear, damage, or looseness. Make sure to check the bolts and nuts. Proper lubrication is also key. Lubricate any moving parts in your suspension system, such as ball joints and tie rod ends, according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Tire care is super important. Maintain the correct tire pressure. Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear. Have your Jeep's alignment checked periodically. The extra stress on suspension components, combined with larger tires, can accelerate wear and tear. Stay on top of fluid changes. Keep up with routine maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and brake inspections. Check your brakes regularly to ensure they're functioning correctly. Consider upgrading your braking system if you've installed larger tires or plan on doing a lot of off-roading. Also, wash your Jeep regularly. Washing your Jeep regularly to remove dirt, mud, and debris will protect the undercarriage and suspension components from corrosion and premature wear. Check your driveshaft angles. A 2-inch lift shouldn’t cause major driveshaft issues. However, it's still a good idea to check the driveshaft angles. Also, check and tighten hardware. Re-check all the bolts and nuts after the first few drives. Then, retighten any that have come loose. By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your lifted WJ in top condition, ensuring many years of reliable performance and enjoyment.

Is the Rough Country 2-Inch Lift Kit Right for You?

So, is the Rough Country 2-inch lift kit the right choice for you and your Jeep WJ? Let's recap to help you decide. This kit offers a good balance. It provides a noticeable lift, improved ground clearance, and enhanced off-road capabilities without requiring extensive modifications. If you're looking for a simple, cost-effective way to lift your Jeep and fit larger tires, this is a great option. It’s perfect for beginners, since the installation is relatively straightforward. The kit is usually complete with all the necessary components. This eliminates the hassle of sourcing individual parts and makes the installation process much easier. Keep in mind, this is a more basic lift. It's designed for moderate off-roading and daily driving. If you're planning on extreme rock crawling or serious off-roading, you might need a more advanced suspension system. The kit provides a great starting point for more modifications down the road. If you're planning on adding a winch, heavy-duty bumpers, or other accessories, you should consider heavier-duty springs. Also, consider your budget. The Rough Country 2-inch lift kit is a budget-friendly option compared to more elaborate lift kits. This can be perfect if you want to lift your Jeep without breaking the bank. Finally, consider your driving style and needs. If you're looking for improved off-road performance and a more aggressive look for your daily driver, this is a great choice. But if you have extreme off-road goals, you might consider a more specialized lift kit. Weigh the pros and cons based on your specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, the Rough Country 2-inch lift kit offers a solid blend of performance, affordability, and ease of installation, making it a popular choice for Jeep WJ owners. Consider your needs, budget, and driving style to determine if it's the right choice for you.