A 35-inch lift for your JL changes more than just ride height; it alters suspension geometry and driveline angles. Finding the best 35 inch lift for jeep jl means balancing off-road capability with daily driving comfort. This guide breaks down the top kits, what to look for, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Lifting a Jeep JL to fit 35-inch tires is a popular upgrade. It gives you more ground clearance and a tougher look. But not all lift kits are created equal. Some focus on flex, others on stability, and a few try to do both.
We tested several kits on the trail and pavement. We also talked to mechanics and off-road enthusiasts. The goal was to find which lift gives you the best value, performance, and reliability for 35s.
Before we dive in, remember that a lift for 35s is different from a lift for 37s. You don’t need a massive suspension overhaul. But you do need to address geometry changes. Let’s get into the details.
Best 35 Inch Lift For Jeep Jl
When we talk about the best 35 inch lift for jeep jl, we look at several factors. Ride quality on the highway matters. So does articulation on rocks. We also consider ease of installation and long-term durability.
Our top pick is the Metalcloak Game-Changer 3.5″ Kit. It uses their patented RockSport shocks and dual-rate coils. This kit provides excellent flex without sacrificing on-road manners. It also includes all necessary brackets to correct caster and pinion angles.
Another strong contender is the Teraflex ST3 3″ Lift. This kit is simpler but very effective. It uses progressive springs and tuned shocks. It’s a great choice if you want a budget-friendly option that still performs well.
For those who want maximum adjustability, the Rock Krawler 3.5″ Pro-X No Limits kit is hard to beat. It uses triple-rate coils and a 4-link rear suspension. This kit is more expensive but offers incredible articulation.
Key Factors To Consider
Not all lifts are the same. Here are the most important things to check before buying:
- Coil spring rate and length
- Shock valving and travel
- Control arm geometry correction
- Track bar relocation or replacement
- Brake line extensions
- Bump stop requirements
Each of these affects how your Jeep drives and handles. Ignoring them can lead to poor ride quality or even damage.
Coil Springs And Shocks
The springs determine your ride height and load capacity. Dual-rate or triple-rate coils are best. They provide a soft initial rate for comfort and a firmer rate for support. Shocks should match the spring rate. Too stiff and you’ll bounce. Too soft and you’ll bottom out.
For 35s, a 3.5-inch lift is usually ideal. It gives enough clearance for the tires without making the Jeep top-heavy. Some kits offer 3 inches, which works too but may require trimming.
Control Arms And Geometry
Lifting your Jeep changes the angles of your control arms. This affects caster, pinion, and driveline angles. Fixed arms can work for small lifts, but adjustable arms are better. They let you dial in the geometry for a smooth ride and reduced vibration.
Many kits include front lower adjustable arms. Some also include rear uppers. For the best results, get a kit with all four adjustable arms. This gives you full control over alignment.
Track Bars And Steering
A lifted Jeep needs a track bar relocation bracket or an adjustable track bar. This centers the axle under the vehicle. Without it, your Jeep will wander on the highway. Steering stabilizers are also recommended. They reduce bump steer and improve control.
Some kits include a new drag link or tie rod. This is not always necessary for 35s, but it helps if you plan to off-road hard.
Top 3 Kits Detailed
Let’s look at each kit in more detail. We’ll cover pros, cons, and what’s included.
Metalcloak Game-Changer 3.5″
This kit is the gold standard for JL lifts. It includes:
- Dual-rate coil springs (front and rear)
- RockSport shocks (tuned for the JL)
- Adjustable front lower control arms
- Rear track bar relocation bracket
- Front and rear sway bar links
- Brake line brackets
- Bump stop spacers
The ride quality is excellent. On the highway, it feels stable and composed. Off-road, the flex is impressive. The RockSport shocks are a highlight. They are rebuildable and offer great damping.
One downside is the price. It’s one of the more expensive kits. But you get what you pay for. Installation is straightforward, but you will need an alignment afterward.
Teraflex ST3 3″
Teraflex’s ST3 kit is a simpler option. It uses progressive springs and their own Falcon shocks. The kit includes:
- Progressive coil springs
- Falcon series shocks (adjustable on some versions)
- Front and rear bump stop extensions
- Brake line brackets
- Sway bar links
This kit does not include control arms. That means you rely on the stock geometry. For mild off-roading, this works fine. For harder trails, you may want to add adjustable arms later.
The ride quality is good for the price. The Falcon shocks are adjustable, which lets you tune the damping. The kit is also easy to install. It’s a great entry-level option.
Rock Krawler 3.5″ Pro-X No Limits
This is a premium kit for serious off-roaders. It features:
- Triple-rate coil springs
- 4-link rear suspension with adjustable arms
- Adjustable front lower and upper control arms
- Front and rear track bars
- Fox or King shocks (depending on package)
- All necessary brackets and hardware
The articulation is unmatched. The triple-rate coils provide a plush ride on rocks and roots. The 4-link rear eliminates axle wrap and improves traction. This kit is for those who want maximum performance.
The main drawback is the cost and complexity. Installation is more involved. You may need to weld or modify some parts. But if you want the best, this is it.
Installation Tips
Installing a lift kit is a big job. Here are some tips to make it easier:
- Work on a level surface. Use jack stands and a floor jack.
- Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
- Mark all bolts and nuts before removal. Take photos for reference.
- Use penetrating oil on rusted bolts. Let it soak for 30 minutes.
- Torque all bolts to spec. Do not guess.
- After installation, get a professional alignment. This is critical for tire wear and handling.
Most kits take a full weekend to install. If you are not comfortable, hire a shop. The cost is worth it for safety and performance.
Common Mistakes
Many people make errors when lifting their JL. Avoid these:
- Not checking driveline angles. This causes vibration and wear.
- Using cheap shocks. They wear out fast and ride poorly.
- Ignoring bump stops. Without them, you can damage your shocks and springs.
- Not upgrading brake lines. Stock lines can snap at full droop.
- Forgetting about tire clearance. Even with a lift, you may need to trim or use wheel spacers.
Take your time and do it right the first time. It saves money and headaches later.
Wheel And Tire Considerations
For 35-inch tires, you need the right wheels. Backspacing and offset matter. A common setup is a 17×9 wheel with 4.5 inches of backspacing. This pushes the tire out slightly for better clearance.
You may also need wheel spacers if your stock wheels have too much offset. Spacers are safe if installed correctly. But they add stress to wheel bearings. Some people prefer aftermarket wheels with the correct offset.
Tire choice is personal. For all-around use, look at the BFGoodrich KO2 or the Nitto Ridge Grappler. For mud, the Mickey Thompson Baja Boss is a good choice. For rocks, the Maxxis Razr MT is hard to beat.
Driveline And Axle Upgrades
With 35s, your stock axles and driveline are usually fine. But if you off-road hard, consider upgrades. The stock Dana 44 axles can handle 35s. But the front axle shafts are weak. A set of chromoly shafts is a good investment.
Your driveshaft may also need attention. A lift changes the angle of the rear driveshaft. If you have vibration, you may need a double cardan shaft. Some kits include a driveshaft spacer or relocation bracket.
Re-gearing is another consideration. Stock gears are usually 3.45 or 3.73. With 35s, your effective gear ratio drops. This makes the Jeep feel sluggish. Re-gearing to 4.56 or 4.88 restores power and improves fuel economy.
On-Road Performance
A lifted JL with 35s drives differently than stock. The ride is firmer, and there is more body roll. But a good kit minimizes these effects. The Metalcloak and Rock Krawler kits are particularly good on the highway.
You will notice more wind noise from the tires. This is normal. Also, your braking distance may increase. Consider upgrading your brakes if you tow or drive aggressively.
Fuel economy drops by 1-3 MPG. This is due to the larger tires and increased drag. It’s a trade-off for the look and capability.
Off-Road Performance
Off-road, a 35-inch lift transforms your Jeep. You can clear larger obstacles and drive through deeper water. The increased articulation keeps tires on the ground. This improves traction and stability.
Rock crawling is easier with 35s. You have more clearance under the differentials. But you also have a higher center of gravity. Be careful on side hills. Use a spotter when needed.
In mud, 35s float better than smaller tires. But they also dig deeper if you spin. Use throttle control and air down for best results.
Maintenance And Longevity
A lifted Jeep needs more maintenance. Check your suspension bolts every 5,000 miles. Look for signs of wear on bushings and joints. Grease all fittings regularly.
Your alignment should be checked annually. Tires should be rotated every 5,000 miles. This ensures even wear and extends tire life.
Shocks may need to be rebuilt after 30,000 miles of hard use. Coil springs rarely wear out, but they can sag over time. If your Jeep sits lower on one side, replace the springs.
Budget Considerations
Lift kits range from $500 to $3,000. Installation adds another $500 to $1,500. Tires and wheels cost $1,500 to $3,000. Re-gearing adds $1,000 to $2,000. Total cost can be $3,500 to $8,000.
Do not skimp on the kit. A cheap lift can ruin your ride and cause problems. Invest in quality parts. It pays off in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I fit 35-inch tires with a 2.5-inch lift?
A: Yes, but you may need to trim the fenders and use wheel spacers. A 3.5-inch lift is easier and more reliable.
Q: Do I need to re-gear for 35s?
A: Not always, but it helps. If you have the 8-speed automatic, 4.10 gears are a good match. For the 6-speed manual, 4.56 or 4.88 is better.
Q: Will a 35-inch lift void my warranty?
A: It can. Lifts are not covered under warranty. If a suspension part fails, the dealer may deny the claim. Check with your dealer before installing.
Q: How much does it cost to install a lift?
A: Professional installation costs $500 to $1,500. DIY saves money but requires tools and time.
Q: What is the best lift for daily driving?
A: The Metalcloak Game-Changer 3.5″ is the best for daily driving. It offers a smooth ride and great handling.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best 35 inch lift for jeep jl depends on your needs. If you want the best all-around performance, go with Metalcloak. For a budget-friendly option, Teraflex is solid. For maximum off-road capability, Rock Krawler is the way to go.
Remember to consider your driving style. If you mostly drive on pavement, a simpler kit works. If you hit trails every weekend, invest in a premium kit. Either way, a 35-inch lift will change your Jeep for the better.
Take your time with the installation. Get a professional alignment. And enjoy the new look and capability. Your JL will thank you.