Adding a body lift to a Jeep TJ raises the frame without altering suspension geometry, which affects driveline angles. If you are looking for the best body lift for jeep tj, you need to consider durability, ease of installation, and clearance gains. This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
Body lifts are a popular upgrade for TJ owners. They allow you to fit larger tires without changing your suspension. You get more ground clearance and a tougher look. But not all lifts are created equal.
We will cover top brands, installation steps, and common mistakes. You will learn how to choose the right kit for your rig. Let’s get started.
Best Body Lift For Jeep Tj
When we talk about the best body lift for jeep tj, we mean a kit that offers reliable performance and simple installation. The top picks come from brands like Rough Country, Daystar, and Zone Offroad. These kits typically raise the body 1 to 1.25 inches.
Why that height? A 1-inch lift is enough to clear 31-inch tires on a stock TJ. It also keeps your driveline angles safe. You do not need to modify your transfer case or driveshafts.
Here is a quick look at the top contenders:
- Rough Country 1.25-Inch Body Lift – Affordable and complete. Includes all hardware.
- Daystar 1-Inch Body Lift – Made from polyurethane. Quiet and long-lasting.
- Zone Offroad 1.25-Inch Body Lift – Great customer support. Easy to install.
- Performance Accessories 1-Inch Body Lift – Budget-friendly. Good for basic upgrades.
Each of these kits has pros and cons. We will go into detail below.
Rough Country 1.25-Inch Body Lift
Rough Country is a well-known name in the Jeep world. Their 1.25-inch body lift is one of the most popular choices. It comes with everything you need: pucks, bolts, and instructions.
The pucks are made from high-density polyurethane. They resist cracking and sagging. The kit also includes a fan spacer and bumper relocation brackets.
Installation takes about 4 to 6 hours. You will need basic hand tools and a jack. The instructions are clear, but some users report missing bolts. Check the kit before you start.
One downside: the pucks can squeak over time. A little silicone spray fixes that. Overall, this is a solid choice for most TJ owners.
Daystar 1-Inch Body Lift
Daystar focuses on noise reduction. Their polyurethane pucks are designed to absorb vibrations. This makes for a quieter ride compared to other kits.
The 1-inch height is ideal for fitting 31-inch tires. It also leaves room for a tummy tuck later. The kit includes a steering shaft extension and bumper brackets.
Daystar’s hardware is high quality. The bolts are grade 8 and resist rust. Some users say the instructions are vague. You might need to watch a video for help.
If you want a smooth ride, this is a good pick. Just be ready for a slightly longer install time.
Zone Offroad 1.25-Inch Body Lift
Zone Offroad is known for their budget-friendly lifts. Their 1.25-inch kit is no exception. It costs less than most competitors but still offers good quality.
The pucks are made from nylon. They are strong but can be brittle in cold weather. The kit includes a fan shroud spacer and bumper brackets.
Zone’s customer service is excellent. If you have issues, they help quickly. Installation is straightforward. Most people finish in 5 hours.
The main complaint is that the pucks can crack if overtightened. Use a torque wrench to avoid this. For the price, it is hard to beat.
Performance Accessories 1-Inch Body Lift
Performance Accessories makes a simple, no-frills kit. It is the cheapest option on this list. The pucks are made from urethane and are basic.
This kit does not include bumper brackets. You will need to modify your stock bumpers or buy separate brackets. That adds to the cost.
Installation is easy if you have some experience. The instructions are minimal. You will likely need to search online for tips.
If you are on a tight budget, this works. But you get what you pay for. Expect some squeaking and fitment issues.
Why Choose A Body Lift Over A Suspension Lift
Body lifts are cheaper and easier to install. They do not affect your suspension geometry. That means no need for new shocks, springs, or control arms.
You also avoid driveline vibrations. With a suspension lift, you often need a slip yoke eliminator or a transfer case drop. A body lift keeps everything stock.
The main downside is limited clearance. A 1-inch body lift only gives you 1 inch of extra tire space. If you want 33-inch tires, you need a suspension lift.
Body lifts also leave a gap between the frame and body. Some people do not like the look. You can buy gap guards to hide it.
When To Use A Body Lift
- You want to fit 31-inch tires on a stock TJ.
- You are on a budget and need a cheap lift.
- You want to keep your stock suspension for daily driving.
- You plan to add a tummy tuck later.
When To Skip A Body Lift
- You want 33-inch or larger tires.
- You need more ground clearance for rock crawling.
- You dislike the look of a body gap.
- You have a lot of rust on your body mounts.
How To Install A Body Lift On A Jeep Tj
Installing a body lift is a weekend project. You need basic tools and a helper. Here is a step-by-step guide.
Tools You Will Need
- Floor jack and jack stands
- Socket set (metric and standard)
- Torque wrench
- Penetrating oil (like WD-40)
- Rubber mallet
- Safety glasses and gloves
Step 1: Prepare The Jeep
Park on level ground. Disconnect the battery. Remove the spare tire and any accessories on the body.
Spray all body mount bolts with penetrating oil. Let it sit for 15 minutes. This makes removal easier.
Step 2: Loosen The Body Mount Bolts
There are 8 body mounts on a TJ. Use a socket to loosen them. Do not remove them yet. Just break them free.
Some bolts may be seized. Use a breaker bar if needed. If a bolt snaps, you will need to drill it out. That is a pain.
Step 3: Jack Up The Body
Place a jack under the rear of the frame. Slowly lift the body. You only need about 2 inches of clearance.
Remove the old body pucks. Clean the mounting surfaces. Check for rust or damage.
Step 4: Install The New Pucks
Slide the new pucks into place. Use the new bolts from the kit. Tighten them by hand first.
Lower the body back down. Torque the bolts to spec. Do not overtighten. That can crack the pucks.
Step 5: Adjust Accessories
You need to extend the steering shaft. Most kits include a spacer. Install it according to the instructions.
Also, adjust the fan shroud. You may need to lower it or trim it. The kit should include a spacer for this.
Reconnect the battery. Check all bolts are tight. Test the steering and brakes before driving.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even experienced DIYers make errors. Here are the most common ones.
Not Using Penetrating Oil
Body mount bolts are often rusted. Skipping oil can lead to snapped bolts. Always spray them ahead of time.
Overtightening The Pucks
Polyurethane and nylon pucks can crack. Use a torque wrench. Follow the kit’s specs.
Forgetting The Steering Extension
If you do not extend the steering shaft, the steering wheel will be off-center. This is dangerous. Always install the spacer.
Ignoring Bumper Fitment
Stock bumpers may not align after a lift. You might need to drill new holes or buy brackets. Check before you start.
Pros And Cons Of A Body Lift
Here is a balanced look at the benefits and drawbacks.
Pros
- Low cost compared to suspension lifts
- Easy installation for beginners
- No driveline modifications needed
- Keeps stock ride quality
- Allows for larger tires
Cons
- Limited tire clearance (max 31 inches)
- Visible gap between body and frame
- Can cause squeaking over time
- May require bumper modifications
- Does not improve off-road articulation
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Body Lift For Jeep Tj For Daily Driving?
The Daystar 1-Inch Body Lift is best for daily driving. It reduces noise and vibration. The polyurethane pucks absorb road bumps well.
Can I Install A Body Lift Myself?
Yes, if you have basic mechanical skills. It takes 4 to 6 hours. You need a jack and socket set. A helper makes it easier.
Do I Need To Adjust Driveline Angles After A Body Lift?
No. A 1-inch lift does not change driveline angles. You keep your stock suspension. No vibrations should occur.
Will A Body Lift Affect My Warranty?
It depends on your dealer. Some void the warranty if modifications are made. Check with your dealer before installing.
What Size Tires Can I Fit With A 1-Inch Body Lift?
You can fit 31-inch tires on a stock TJ. With minor trimming, you might fit 32-inch tires. 33-inch tires require a suspension lift.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best body lift for jeep tj comes down to your needs. For most people, the Rough Country 1.25-Inch kit offers the best value. It is complete and reliable.
If you want a quieter ride, go with Daystar. If you are on a budget, Zone Offroad works fine. Just avoid the cheapest kits if you can.
Remember to take your time during installation. Use penetrating oil. Torque bolts correctly. Your TJ will thank you.
With a body lift, you get more clearance and a tougher look. It is a simple upgrade that makes a big difference. Happy wheeling.