Hey Jeep enthusiasts! So, you're thinking about lifting your XJ Cherokee? That's awesome! It's one of the best ways to level up your off-road game and give your rig a seriously cool look. But let's be real, there's a whole world of lift kits out there. Today, we're diving deep into long arm lift kits for the XJ Cherokee. We'll break down what they are, why they're awesome, and what to consider when choosing one. Ready to get your Jeep lifted right? Let's go!

What's a Long Arm Lift Kit, Anyway?

Alright, first things first: what exactly is a long arm lift kit? Think of it as a significant upgrade to your Jeep's suspension. Standard lift kits often use the factory short control arms, but long arm kits swap those out for, well, longer arms! These longer arms attach to the frame further back, changing the geometry of your suspension and providing some serious benefits. They're designed to improve ride quality, off-road performance, and overall durability. The result? A smoother ride, better articulation, and more control when you're tackling those trails. Essentially, a long arm lift kit replaces the factory short control arms with longer arms that offer a more favorable angle. This change in angle reduces the harshness of the ride, improves articulation, and minimizes the tendency for the suspension to bind up when flexing off-road. The longer arms also help to maintain proper caster and pinion angles, which can improve steering and reduce wear on your drivetrain components. Furthermore, the longer arms provide a more stable and predictable ride both on and off the road.

Here's the lowdown: Instead of the stock short arms that bolt directly to the axle and frame, long arms extend much further back, often attaching to a crossmember that's mounted to the frame. This simple change has a massive impact! The longer arms drastically change the angles of the control arms, which in turn affects how your suspension moves. This is super important because it directly impacts your ride quality, off-road capability, and the overall durability of your Jeep's suspension. The longer arms allow the axle to move up and down with less change in the angle of the control arms. This translates into a smoother ride, especially over rough terrain. They help your wheels stay in contact with the ground more consistently, maximizing traction. They offer superior articulation. That means your wheels can move up and down independently, allowing your Jeep to crawl over obstacles with ease. Ultimately, a long arm kit gives you a serious upgrade in both performance and ride comfort. If you are serious about off-roading your XJ, it is hard to beat a well-designed long arm kit.

Benefits of Choosing a Long Arm Lift Kit

Alright, let's talk about the good stuff! Why should you consider a long arm lift kit over other types of lift kits? There are some serious advantages to this upgrade, especially if you're serious about off-roading or want a smoother ride. Here's what you can expect:

• Improved Ride Quality: This is arguably the biggest and most noticeable benefit. The longer arms change the suspension geometry, reducing the harshness you feel when driving over bumps and rough terrain. Your XJ will feel much more compliant, absorbing impacts and making for a more comfortable ride, whether you're cruising on the highway or hitting the trails. The longer arms reduce the angle at which the control arms move, which allows the axle to move up and down with less change in caster and pinion angles. This translates into a smoother ride, even over challenging obstacles.
• Enhanced Off-Road Performance: This is where long arm kits truly shine. The increased articulation allows your wheels to move independently, keeping them in contact with the ground for maximum traction. This is huge when navigating rocky trails, climbing hills, or traversing uneven terrain. Your Jeep will be able to flex more, meaning the suspension can absorb bumps and obstacles more effectively, leading to better control and stability.
• Increased Articulation: Articulation is the amount of vertical movement your wheels have. Long arms dramatically increase articulation, allowing your wheels to move up and down independently. This means your tires will stay in contact with the ground for longer, improving traction and control over uneven terrain. This will lead to superior performance when climbing over obstacles or navigating technical trails. The extra articulation will allow you to maintain grip, even when one wheel is significantly higher or lower than the others.
• Better Stability and Control: With improved suspension geometry and increased articulation, your XJ will feel more stable, especially at higher speeds or on challenging trails. The increased control gives you more confidence behind the wheel, allowing you to push your Jeep to its limits.
• Reduced Stress on Components: While it might seem counterintuitive, long arms can actually reduce stress on other suspension components. By correcting the suspension geometry, you can minimize the strain on your bushings, ball joints, and other parts. This can lead to a longer lifespan for these components, saving you money on repairs in the long run.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Long Arm Kit

Okay, so long arm kits are awesome, but choosing the right one for your XJ isn't a walk in the park. Here's what you need to keep in mind:

• Lift Height: How high do you want to lift your Jeep? Long arm kits are typically designed for lifts of 3 inches or more. Make sure the kit you choose is compatible with the lift height you're aiming for. This will determine the length of the arms and the overall geometry of your suspension. Consider how you plan to use your Jeep. For serious rock crawling, a taller lift might be beneficial, but for general trail riding and daily driving, a moderate lift may be sufficient.
• Budget: Long arm kits can range in price, so setting a budget is essential. Factor in not just the cost of the kit itself but also the potential costs of installation, alignment, and any other necessary modifications. Shop around and compare different kits to find the best value for your money. Research the reputation of the manufacturer and read reviews to ensure you're getting a quality product.
• Installation: Installing a long arm kit is a more involved process than installing a short arm kit. Some kits require welding and cutting, so you'll need the skills and equipment to handle the job. If you're not comfortable with this, consider having a professional install the kit. Determine whether you're capable of performing the installation yourself or if you'll need to seek professional assistance. The installation process typically involves removing the old suspension components, mounting the new long arms to the frame and axle, and adjusting the suspension geometry.
• Material Quality and Build: Look for kits made from high-quality materials like heavy-duty steel. Check the welds and ensure the kit is designed to withstand the rigors of off-roading. Look for a kit that is durable and able to withstand the abuse that comes with off-roading. Check online reviews and forums to gauge the reputation of the kit and the manufacturer.
• Component Compatibility: Make sure the kit is compatible with your other modifications, such as your axles, driveshafts, and steering components. Some kits require modifications to these components, so be prepared for additional costs. The kit should include all the necessary components for a complete installation, including the control arms, brackets, hardware, and any required accessories. Determine whether the kit includes all the necessary components for a complete installation, including the control arms, brackets, hardware, and any required accessories.

Installation: Can You Handle It?

Installing a long arm kit is not for the faint of heart, guys! It's a more involved process than your typical short arm lift. You're looking at cutting, welding (in some cases), and a whole lot of wrenching. Here's a quick rundown of what's involved:

1. Preparation: This includes disconnecting the battery, removing the wheels, and supporting the vehicle on jack stands. You'll need to remove the existing suspension components, including the factory control arms, shocks, and springs.
2. Mounting the Brackets: Depending on the kit, you might need to weld new brackets to your frame. This is where things get serious, requiring welding skills and equipment. Some kits offer bolt-on options, which are less involved but may not be as robust.
3. Installing the Long Arms: This involves bolting or welding the long arms to the frame brackets and the axle. Ensure everything is aligned correctly and torqued to the manufacturer's specifications. Make sure everything is aligned correctly, following the manufacturer's instructions. Torque all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
4. Installing Shocks and Springs: Install the new shocks and springs that come with the kit. These are usually designed to work in conjunction with the long arms.
5. Alignment: Once the kit is installed, you'll need a professional alignment to ensure proper handling and tire wear. This is a must-do step! An alignment is crucial to ensure that the suspension components are properly aligned and that the vehicle handles correctly. Have the alignment done by a professional to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive.

If you're not comfortable with these steps, or if you don't have the necessary tools or skills, it's best to have a professional install the kit. This will save you time, headaches, and potentially costly mistakes. If you do decide to DIY, be sure to have access to the right tools, including a welder, angle grinder, and torque wrench. Take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and don't be afraid to ask for help from experienced friends or online forums.

Popular Long Arm Kit Brands

There are several reputable brands offering long arm lift kits for the XJ Cherokee. Here are a few popular choices:

• Iron Rock Off Road (IRO): Known for their high-quality kits and competitive pricing. IRO offers a variety of kits for different lift heights and budgets. They're a favorite among XJ owners for their solid construction and performance.
• Rough Country: Rough Country is a well-known brand offering a range of lift kits. They provide different kits for varying lift heights and budgets, making them a popular choice. They're often seen as a good balance of value and performance.
• Rubicon Express: Offers high-end long arm kits designed for serious off-road performance. Their kits are known for their durability and articulation. Rubicon Express is a premium brand, offering top-of-the-line components and performance.
• Clayton Off Road: Known for their extreme-duty long arm kits designed for hardcore off-roading. Their kits are built to withstand the toughest conditions and offer exceptional articulation. Clayton Off Road is a brand for serious off-road enthusiasts.

Wrapping It Up

Choosing a long arm lift kit for your XJ Cherokee is a big decision, but it's one that can significantly enhance your Jeep's performance and your off-road adventures. Consider your budget, the lift height you want, your off-roading goals, and your mechanical skills. Do your research, read reviews, and compare different kits to find the perfect one for you. Get ready to transform your XJ into a trail-conquering machine, and have fun out there! And remember, safety first! Always practice safe off-roading and respect the trails. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!