Skyjacker 3-4" Lift (J34)

Wasn't really looking, but came across a set of 4 skyjacker 3-4" lift springs used for sale on CL. These are the J34 'softride' springs. My unknown (probably Rancho) lift springs are of course stiff, with minimal articulation. This is made worse by their overall length which places them almost directly under the spring hangers (especially on the front) so that the shackle hangs near vertical - this of course is not ideal and doesn't allow for much down travel of the axle. I've never really figured out what caused the problem, other than someone may have taken a set of Rancho springs and had extra arch added to them - as I would assume a well made set of lift springs would take into account the required length for the application.

Anyway, wondering if anyone has these Skyjacker J34 springs and can comment on their functionality. I am not looking for additional lift per se - just enough to keep my 33s and allow for some flex. My current set-up seems to be about 2-3" lift on the springs, and I have Warrior shackles that provide an additional 0.5 inches. If the springs truly are flexy (at least compared to what I have), a bit more clearance might be helpful to keep the rubber off the fenders.

Finally, looking at the pics - its seems they only have the spring guides or 'clamps' on one end - should they have the 'clamps' on both ends?

CJ5 CJ6 Willys Jeep 4 lift leaf springs

 

Good point...and its actually helpful for clearance with my one piece tie-rod setup if the clip is behind the axle.

Wondering how much these will flatten under load of the jeep? The seller sent me measurements and they have a lot of arch... and are a bit short. But if the 'softride' flexes and flattens quite a bit it could work well.

 

Agreed - but it would help if the springs are the proper length from eye to eye to allow for good shackle angle. At least that would allow for some shackle pivot movement (and in my case would allow the axle to move down a bit). From my POV, it can't be worse than what I have.

No SOA coversions for me - but I would consider the RR conversion that a few have been working on recently - but that is way down the road. I was just going to live with my stiff short springs for a long while, but I stumbled across these and thought it might be worth a try.

 

There is a BDS 2.5 kit for sale local on CL as well - more money but maybe a better way to go. Want to make sure I can clear my 33s (x10.5) with it and still have a bit of room for flex. I do run a slightly longer shackle (3.25" vs stock 2.75"), but that really is only 1/4" of added lift if it is even measureable. Concerned the 4" Skyjackers might be too much lift.

 

Thanks guys - I am leaning away from the 4" skyjackers. Not sure that I will drop the money for the BDS on CL - this isn't a must do at this time - was more of an unexpected opportunity and I do think the skyjackers softrides have potential for good flex. The 4" is probably too much for clearance, and not worth the higher COG or the additional problems it creates with my Ross steering geometry, and it may not help with my shackle alignment or my minimal caster angle. I can't find it now, but Chris posted a pic of his flatty with 4" kit and 35s. I think these companies are a bit conservative with their tire size estimate. I guess worst case for the 2.5" route is that I would have to add a 1" longer shackle on the front.

I did contact the BDS seller - come with all new hardware. They are a 4x4 shop, and they are cleaning out some left-over, opened items, or stuff that was ordered for a client and then not used or went a different direction. One of BDS' best features is the warranty, but they are willing to sell this out the back door as a cash private party sale - but of course the warranty might not be honored by BDS. I made a lowish offer - We'll find out tomorrow. They are just trying to recoup some cost for something that wasn't used - or maybe they already got value from the client that didn't use it. I think I am hoping they accept...

 

Doug - Which ones do you have, the 2.5 BDS or the 4" Skyjacker?

 

Thanks - I think the 2.5 BDS would be good - just a matter of if I want to spend the money.