Why Elevate Your Jeep Cherokee XJ?
The venerable Jeep Cherokee XJ. A name that still resonates deeply within the off-road community, synonymous with ruggedness, reliability, and an enduring spirit of adventure. Born from the late eighties and continuing well into the new millennium, the XJ Cherokee remains a favorite for enthusiasts seeking capable vehicles ready to tackle trails, conquer obstacles, and explore the great outdoors. The 2000 model year, in particular, represents a sweet spot, combining the later model refinements with the XJ’s classic design. A cornerstone of its appeal lies in its inherent off-road prowess, further enhanced by modifications. One of the most popular and transformative upgrades? The lift kit. This is where this guide dives deep.
The addition of a lift kit unlocks a new dimension of off-road potential, and transforms your XJ’s stance. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader seeking to push your Cherokee to its limits or a newcomer drawn to the adventure lifestyle, choosing the right lift kit is paramount. This comprehensive guide will explore the world of lift kits, specifically for the 2000 Jeep Cherokee XJ, empowering you to make informed decisions and embark on your own lifting journey.
The decision to lift your Jeep Cherokee XJ is driven by a variety of motivations, each contributing to an enhanced driving experience. Beyond aesthetics, a lift kit unlocks a world of off-road capabilities and performance enhancements.
One of the most significant benefits is the **improvement in off-road performance**. A lift kit dramatically increases ground clearance, allowing your XJ to navigate obstacles that would otherwise prove impassable. Rocks, logs, and uneven terrain become less of a concern, as your vehicle gains the ability to clear them with greater ease. Moreover, a lift kit significantly improves your approach, departure, and breakover angles. The approach angle is the maximum angle from which your front tires can begin an ascent before the bumper makes contact. Departure angle, conversely, is the maximum angle from which your rear tires can start descending before the bumper makes contact with the ground. Breakover angle refers to the ability to drive over a steep peak or hill. These enhanced angles reduce the risk of scraping bumpers, undercarriage components, and other vulnerable parts of your XJ, enabling you to confidently tackle challenging trails. Some lift kits also offer improvements in articulation, allowing your wheels to move independently.
The **enhanced aesthetics** provided by a lift kit contribute to the rugged and commanding presence of the XJ. A lifted Cherokee takes on a more aggressive stance, instantly transforming its appearance and making a bold statement. Coupled with larger tires, a lifted XJ possesses a visually appealing look, signaling its readiness for adventure. Furthermore, a lift kit makes it possible to fit larger tires, enhancing the vehicle’s ground clearance and off-road capabilities.
While off-road performance and aesthetics are the primary drivers, lift kits can also provide **performance benefits**. Some kits offer improved ride quality, especially those that incorporate upgraded springs and shocks. The right kit can create a more comfortable driving experience, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road more effectively.
Various Types of Lift Kits for the Cherokee XJ
The landscape of lift kits is diverse, with each type offering a unique set of benefits and trade-offs. Knowing these distinctions is key to making an informed decision.
Spacer Kits
These offer a straightforward and budget-friendly option for a mild lift. They utilize spacers, typically installed on top of the coil springs or beneath the shock absorbers. This method raises the vehicle’s height without making significant changes to the existing suspension components. The primary advantage of spacer kits is their affordability and ease of installation. However, they provide a limited lift height, often resulting in minimal improvements in off-road performance. Ride quality may be slightly compromised, and other upgrades, such as longer shocks, may be required. These are a great choice for someone wanting a subtle lift or to simply accommodate slightly larger tires.
Coil Spring Lift Kits
These kits typically include replacement coil springs designed to provide a lift. They often involve replacing both the front coil springs and rear leaf springs. This approach yields a more substantial lift than spacers while maintaining relative affordability. They can improve the ride quality over spacers. However, they will require more labor for installation as opposed to spacers.
Short Arm Lift Kits
These kits represent a step up in terms of both performance and complexity. They typically include replacement coil springs, shocks, and often shorter replacement control arms. The replacement of the control arms can affect the suspension geometry and will require more involved installation. The main benefit is better ground clearance and a good balance between on-road comfort and off-road performance. The ride quality is improved, and articulation is increased.
Long Arm Lift Kits
These are the pinnacle of lift kit performance, designed for serious off-road enthusiasts. Long arm kits completely replace the factory control arms with significantly longer ones. This provides a substantial improvement in ride quality, increased articulation, and allows for extreme off-road capability. However, long arm kits come with trade-offs. They are generally the most expensive option, the installation is complex and often requires cutting and welding, and they can impact the vehicle’s on-road manners. Long arm kits are typically for more advanced off-roaders.
Additional considerations for different lift kit designs
Choosing the right lift kit for your Jeep Cherokee XJ involves careful consideration of various factors.
Lift Height
Deciding how much you want to lift your XJ is one of the first and most crucial decisions. The lift height directly impacts the vehicle’s ground clearance, aesthetics, and off-road performance. Higher lift heights often provide the most extreme off-road capability but can come with additional challenges. Consider your intended use, your budget, and any legal restrictions that may apply to lift height in your area. A moderate lift, such as two to three inches, can provide a significant improvement in off-road capability while minimizing the impact on on-road comfort and handling.
Budget
Lift kits range widely in price, so establishing a budget is essential. Consider not only the cost of the kit itself but also the cost of installation, which can vary depending on the kit’s complexity and whether you choose to install it yourself or have it professionally installed. Factor in the cost of any additional components you may need, such as extended brake lines or a new track bar.
Intended Use
How you plan to use your lifted XJ is a primary factor in choosing the correct lift kit. Are you planning on using it primarily for daily driving with occasional off-roading? Or will you be tackling rough trails and challenging terrains on a regular basis? The type of lift kit, the lift height, and the components included should be matched to your intended use. If you plan to do serious off-roading, a long arm kit with a higher lift may be appropriate. If it’s more for daily driving and some light trails, a spacer or a coil spring kit may be sufficient.
Suspension Components
The quality and design of the suspension components are critical. Look for lift kits that use high-quality coil springs, shocks, and control arms. Research brands and read reviews to assess their reputation and product reliability. Consider upgrading other components, such as track bars, to improve the suspension geometry and handling.
Tire Size
As you increase your lift height, consider what size tires you want to use. This will influence the lift height selection, and the need for things such as fender trimming. The larger the tires, the better the off-road capability, but also the more modifications may be required.
Installing a Lift Kit and Helpful Hints
The installation process for a lift kit can range from relatively simple to extremely complex.
Preparation
Gather the necessary tools and equipment. Carefully review the lift kit instructions. Prioritize safety, utilizing jack stands, wearing appropriate eye protection, and ensuring the vehicle is secured during the process. Having a well-lit and organized workspace is also invaluable.
Step-by-Step Installation
While each lift kit has specific instructions, the general steps include raising the vehicle, removing the old suspension components, installing the new lift kit components, torquing all bolts to specification, and getting a wheel alignment. This is a generalization, the specific steps will depend on the type of kit you are installing. Follow the kit’s instructions precisely.
Installation Tips
When encountering stubborn bolts, use penetrating oil and a breaker bar. Ensure you have the correct tools and sockets before starting. After the installation, a wheel alignment is crucial to ensure proper handling and tire wear. Consider professional installation if you are not comfortable working on your vehicle.
Considerations for the Long Haul
After installing the lift kit, regular maintenance and care are key to preserving the performance and longevity of your lifted XJ.
Regular Inspection
Regularly inspect the suspension components for any signs of wear or damage. Check the coil springs, shocks, control arms, and other components for any cracks, leaks, or loose bolts.
Proper Lubrication
Keep all greasable components properly lubricated to prevent premature wear and ensure smooth operation. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for lubrication intervals and types of grease.
Wheel Alignment
Have the vehicle professionally aligned after the lift kit installation.
Tire Rotation
Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear.
Additional Upgrades
A lifted XJ has many optional modifications. Upgrading the shocks is always important for ride quality. You can add sway bar disconnects for increased articulation. A steering stabilizer will improve steering feel and minimize road vibrations, especially with larger tires. Extended brake lines will be needed for lifts over a certain height.
Recommended Lift Kit Brands
Several reputable brands offer lift kits for the 2000 Jeep Cherokee XJ, each with its own strengths and specialties. Consider Rough Country for its balance of affordability and performance. Rubicon Express has a solid reputation for building quality. Skyjacker and others provide a broad range of options.
Conclusion
Lifting your 2000 Jeep Cherokee XJ is a transformative upgrade that opens up new possibilities for off-road adventure. By carefully considering the various lift kit options, understanding the key factors involved in choosing a kit, and following proper installation and maintenance procedures, you can unlock the full potential of your XJ. Take the time to research lift kits, seek expert advice, and enjoy the journey of enhancing your Cherokee. Your lifted XJ is waiting.
