Lift for 2012 KK - Skyjacker vs. OME

summitseeker91 · **Joined:** Thu Aug 04, 2016 12:54 pm **Posts:** 6

Hello all,

Long time lurker, but just joined for the first time. I have been scanning the many threads on lifts for the kk's comparing various brands and combinations. After looking over what has been recommended and what fits the budget, I am considering the Skyjacker 2.5" with monotube shocks. I can't find any reviews on these. From what I found, the Skyjackers wear out quicker/develop sag quicker. I have looked at the OME but can't find a kit available outside of RRO. If I purchase the coil and struts desperately, will I also need to look into new bump stops and extended brake lines? These are the kits I am considering, would like to stay under $1k in price and plan to install myself.

http://www.morris4x4center.com/skyjacke ... 258hk.html

http://www.morris4x4center.com/skyjacke ... 258nk.html

http://www.morris4x4center.com/skyjacke ... 58mtk.html

http://jeepinbyal.com/ome-1-50-lift-kit-kk.html

Additionally, I plan to run XD Heist 17/8 wheels and 245/70/17 BFG ATs. Will I be able to squeeze a larger size under the lift? Considering 1.25 spacers to improve stance.

Thanks!

tommudd · **Posted:** Thu Aug 04, 2016 2:02 pm

summitseeker91 wrote:

Hello all,

Long time lurker, but just joined for the first time. I have been scanning the many threads on lifts for the kk's comparing various brands and combinations. After looking over what has been recommended and what fits the budget, I am considering the Skyjacker 2.5" with monotube shocks. I can't find any reviews on these. From what I found, the Skyjackers wear out quicker/develop sag quicker. I have looked at the OME but can't find a kit available outside of RRO. If I purchase the coil and struts desperately, will I also need to look into new bump stops and extended brake lines? These are the kits I am considering, would like to stay under $1k in price and plan to install myself.

http://www.morris4x4center.com/skyjacke ... 258hk.html

http://www.morris4x4center.com/skyjacke ... 258nk.html

http://www.morris4x4center.com/skyjacke ... 58mtk.html

http://jeepinbyal.com/ome-1-50-lift-kit-kk.html

Additionally, I plan to run XD Heist 17/8 wheels and 245/70/17 BFG ATs. Will I be able to squeeze a larger size under the lift? Considering 1.25 spacers to improve stance.

Thanks!

First go to http://www.jeepinbyal.com , look under KKs/ then Econo lifts for the OME kit which gives you 2.5 inches of lift with no additions
FORGET the cheap built Skyjackers, you'll be kicking yourself if you buy them
Also forget morris 4x4, RRO, Rustys etc
Run a 7 inch wheel with 4 inches of backspacing, no need for an 8 inch wide wheel since none of the tires we can run need that wide of a wheel.
The 7 inch with 4 inches of backspacing sits the tire and wheel at the edge of the flares. any wider or different backspacing you'll get more rubbing when turning
245-70-17 is almost a 31 inch tall tire so be ready to lose mileage and power unless you go to 4.10 gearing.
ALSO you will need more than 2.5 inches of lift to run that size properly ( will need at least 3-3.25 inches which you can get with some extras added like top plate/ clevis etc)

Now, why would you run spacers on the wheels??
Most of those wheels don't have the correct backspacing for a KJ or KK anyways , spacers would only make it much worse

So JBA for the OME kit with 927/and 731 springs
use the 1/4 inch top for 1/2 inch more in front and one extra upper iso in the rear for 3 inches of lift

UPDATE:
after looking at those wheels I don't see any that will work good really

Jeepsnguns · **Posted:** Mon Aug 08, 2016 12:57 am

Listen to Tom, I just installed the ome lift on mine but with Bilstein shocks and I love it. If you wanna save a couple hundred bucks go with bilstein shocks and piece the kit out on different websites. That's what I did and I'm very pleased with the results. Try googling the following part numbers and look for the lowest price with free shipping and no tax. Doing it like this I spent barely over 600 bucks, and installed it myself thanks to all the info here.

Arb 2927
Arb2731
Bilstein 24-139168 (front)
Bilstein 33-185552 (rear)
Use washers to shim the shock sleeve for the rear or buy the correct sleeve kit from jba.

Steveybnj · **Posted:** Thu Aug 11, 2016 2:03 am

I am sure the OME lift is a great product. I am not disputing the recommendations whatsoever.
However I did purchase and have a local shop install the Skyjacker coil lift system(not spacer lift) and very happy. I don't think it is as heavy duty as the OME lift. If you want steel bumpers and a winch then go heavy duty. My KK just has full skid plates and tow hooks. I have no complaints with skyjacker. Handles great on road and performed well off road. Good for intermediate trail riding. The truck is 90% on road for me. I went to the skyjacker site and reviewed things and tire recommendations. They put a lot of engineering into their products and lift significantly larger and more complex vehicles. The KK is just 2 struts and coils. I got the hydro shocks and they are fine.
One would have to drive both OME and SKyjacker equipped vehicles to compare.
I got 2.5" lift easy, and satisfied with performance & ride quality. The KK's transfer case / traction control system is a key feature. Stay at 245/75/16, about .75" ^ under the rear axle. So, 3.25" around. Took measurements at shop was actually higher day 1, settled slightly. I feel the Liberty may have general limitations off road. Buy what you can afford and consider what accessories you may want.

Steveybnyc@yahoo.com

tommudd · **Posted:** Sun Aug 14, 2016 12:18 am

Steveybnj wrote:

I am sure the OME lift is a great product. I am not disputing the recommendations whatsoever.
However I did purchase and have a local shop install the Skyjacker coil lift system(not spacer lift) and very happy. I don't think it is as heavy duty as the OME lift. If you want steel bumpers and a winch then go heavy duty. My KK just has full skid plates and tow hooks. I have no complaints with skyjacker. Handles great on road and performed well off road. Good for intermediate trail riding. The truck is 90% on road for me. I went to the skyjacker site and reviewed things and tire recommendations. They put a lot of engineering into their products and lift significantly larger and more complex vehicles. The KK is just 2 struts and coils. I got the hydro shocks and they are fine. OME just seams more acceptable to jeep owners .
One would have to drive both OME and SKyjacker equipped vehicles to compare.
I got 2.5" lift easy, and honesty I feel it's about performance , ride quality, and the KK's transfer case / traction control system. Stay at 245/75/16, about .75" ^ under the rear axle. So, 3.25" around. Took measurements at shop was actually higher day 1, settled slightly. I feel the Liberty may have general limitations off road. Buy what you can afford and consider what accessories you may want. But if you want to be hardcore get a Wrangler I quess

Steveybnyc@yahoo.com

I have driven both
Trust me, lots of difference when going over bumps in the road etc

Steveybnj · **Posted:** Sun Aug 14, 2016 10:58 am

You most definitly have more experience then me and likely correct. The OME is better for a serious off road person. 5 stars vs 3? In my case , It's my daily driver. If I was serious I would want a wrangler or Cherokee with 33"s and OME lift. I dont classify myself on being a hardcore off road person.

I just did not see anyone on here reviewing the Skyjacker Platinum lift kits? Quadratec carries them so must be a few owners out there?! I may be one off the few that likes the soft ride feel. I just wanted a little more height, articulation and one notch up on the performance end from stock. If anything I may upgrade to the nitro rear shocks. The OEM ( original equip mfg) struts were 6 years old and were in horrible shape. The bottom plate where the spring sits was rusted but didn't leak fluid. The Skyjacker strut is still FAR more heavy duty the OEM. I think the skyjacker springs are rated close to stock. My old coils had no sag so I saved them. I payed my 2010 KK off and just thought it sits too low and wanted it more capable to a novice / amateur off roading. I probably invested maybe $1500 in parts so far on my KK and comfortable with that.
You need to replace your struts / shocks / tires for preventive maintenance anyway... So nothing wrong to just upgrade as well. Spacer kits on OEM struts and IFS is just a bad idea. If you don't got the green , nothing wrong with stock height performance struts and shocks , better tires and skids.

tommudd · **Posted:** Tue Aug 16, 2016 3:27 pm

Steveybnj wrote:

You most definitly have more experience then me and likely correct. The OME is better for a serious off road person. 5 stars vs 3? In my case , It's my daily driver. If I was serious I would want a wrangler or Cherokee with 33"s and OME lift. I dont classify myself on being a hardcore off road person.

I just did not see anyone on here reviewing the Skyjacker Platinum lift kits? Quadratec carries them so must be a few owners out there?! I may be one off the few that likes the soft ride feel. I just wanted a little more height, articulation and one notch up on the performance end from stock. If anything I may upgrade to the nitro rear shocks. The OEM ( original equip mfg) struts were 6 years old and were in horrible shape. The bottom plate where the spring sits was rusted but didn't leak fluid. The Skyjacker strut is still FAR more heavy duty the OEM. I think the skyjacker springs are rated close to stock. My old coils had no sag so I saved them. I payed my 2010 KK off and just thought it sits too low and wanted it more capable to a novice / amateur off roading. I probably invested maybe $1500 in parts so far on my KK and comfortable with that.
You need to replace your struts / shocks / tires for preventive maintenance anyway... So nothing wrong to just upgrade as well. Spacer kits on OEM struts and IFS is just a bad idea. If you don't got the green , nothing wrong with stock height performance struts and shocks , better tires and skids.

Not sure why you think the OME setup is mainly for off roading?
Always find that interesting that people don't want an upgraded suspension system on their DD ??

Steveybnj · **Posted:** Tue Aug 16, 2016 7:59 pm

I believe the OME would be superb on or off road. OME may beat out skyjacker in a magazine style review; like the tittle says.
I just don't think the skyjacker kit I got is - cheap built either? I am not a auto mechanic but Out of the box it is a great kit! Everything stayed in OEM parameters and no issues so far. Two shops looked at it and were impressed. Remarked the install was fine. For me it was a good option to upgrade my DD.

Bmxer524 · **Posted:** Tue Aug 16, 2016 11:34 pm

The only problem with skyjacker is that their springs are the same spring rate as stock. Because of that, they tend not to hold up for as long as OME does, especially for those that start adding weight (skids, bumpers, sliders etc). It's a good kit as long as you understand that, and aren't really looking to improve the ride much (I found factory ride to be a little too soft).

Steveybnj · **Posted:** Wed Aug 17, 2016 9:27 am

This is all randomness but:
Think the stock KK spring rates should hold up for me.
Cooper at3 245/75/16, skid plates, tow hooks and I weigh about 165.
Skyjacker rides a lot better then Mopar.
I May do some lighting.
Steel bumpers def not in my budget.
Thought about rock rails and a Hilift Jack.
Thought about a front mount receiver hitch, synthetic rope winch & cradle.
Each item seams to end up costing 500 - 1000 by the time you price it out.
The only thing for sure is in the northeast everything rusts.
Feel horrible seeing old Cherokees with rust along the quarters and flat leaf springs.
Preventive maintenance is everything.

If you can afford to do the one thing put the OME or skyjacker lift in.
Know what your goals are and what your wrenching skills are.
This forum is great and listen to everyone experiences !

tommudd · **Posted:** Thu Aug 18, 2016 7:53 am

Steveybnj wrote:

This is all randomness but:
Think the stock KK spring rates should hold up for me.
Cooper at3 245/75/16, skid plates, tow hooks and I weigh about 165.
Skyjacker rides a lot better then Mopar.
I May do some lighting.
Steel bumpers def not in my budget.
Thought about rock rails and a Hilift Jack.
Thought about a front mount receiver hitch, synthetic rope winch & cradle.
Each item seams to end up costing 500 - 1000 by the time you price it out.
The only thing for sure is in the northeast everything rusts.
Feel horrible seeing old Cherokees with rust along the quarters and flat leaf springs.
Preventive maintenance is everything.

If you can afford to do the one thing put the OME or skyjacker lift in.
Know what your goals are and what your wrenching skills are.
This forum is great and listen to everyone experiences !

Good luck with it ( Skyjacker)
Could tell you a little back story on a lift with stock spring rates, but.....I know you'd say yours will be different

CorporeSano · **Joined:** Sun Oct 19, 2014 2:36 pm **Posts:** 75

I'm going to be doing the OME lift soon and I wanted to note... I did a lot of research on reviews for both products, my gripe with the Skyjacker was that tons of people were complaining of them rusting soon after install. I did read a couple other complaints, however I'll leave those alone.
Anyone know if the OME 1.5 gives you more than 1.5? I read that its closer to 2 & 1/4...

tommudd · **Posted:** Fri Aug 19, 2016 12:14 am

CorporeSano wrote:

I'm going to be doing the OME lift soon and I wanted to note... I did a lot of research on reviews for both products, my gripe with the Skyjacker was that tons of people were complaining of them rusting soon after install. I did read a couple other complaints, however I'll leave those alone.
Anyone know if the OME 1.5 gives you more than 1.5? I read that its closer to 2 & 1/4...

1.5 inches is noted for insurance reasons in Australia
You actually get 2.5 inches just from the springs alone

summitseeker91 · **Joined:** Thu Aug 04, 2016 12:54 pm **Posts:** 6

I appreciate the information! I have started to piece out the parts rather than buy the Skyjacker kit. One consideration, this will be for a gas model but I will eventually have a steel front and rear bumper, (winch on front as well).

Will the following parts be acceptable or should I be using the CRD coils?

Arb 2927
Arb 2731
Bilstein 24-139168
Bilstein 33-185552

Jeepsnguns · **Posted:** Fri Aug 26, 2016 1:59 am

summitseeker91 wrote:

I appreciate the information! I have started to piece out the parts rather than buy the Skyjacker kit. One consideration, this will be for a gas model but I will eventually have a steel front and rear bumper, (winch on front as well).

Will the following parts be acceptable or should I be using the CRD coils?

Arb 2927
Arb 2731
Bilstein 24-139168
Bilstein 33-185552

Yes, those are the parts you want. I put the exact same setup on mine and plan on adding steel bumpers and a winch as well. All the posts I have read suguest this is the ideal setup, as those are the HD springs and won't sag with the weight.

summitseeker91 · **Joined:** Thu Aug 04, 2016 12:54 pm **Posts:** 6

Just spoke with JBA, the rep recommended the 790s to support the weight. I might also add skids at some point and would like to stay on the cautious side. However, I don't want the ride quality to greatly suffer with the stiffer set up. On the fence between these two...

tommudd · **Posted:** Sat Aug 27, 2016 3:36 pm

summitseeker91 wrote:

Just spoke with JBA, the rep recommended the 790s to support the weight. I might also add skids at some point and would like to stay on the cautious side. However, I don't want the ride quality to greatly suffer with the stiffer set up. On the fence between these two...

With aftermarket bumpers and winch then yes 790s
with just aftermarket bumper and no winch 927s
just from my experience

E1vis81 · **Posted:** Fri Sep 02, 2016 2:55 pm

Does the OME kit from jeepinbyal come with everything you need, or are there additional parts needed that aren't in the kit?

tommudd · **Posted:** Fri Sep 02, 2016 10:55 pm

E1vis81 wrote:

Does the OME kit from jeepinbyal come with everything you need, or are there additional parts needed that aren't in the kit?

Depends on height you want to go
but do need bumpstops front and rear
teraflex for the front through JBA
rear can be 2 hockey pucks per side bolted down

E1vis81 · **Posted:** Sat Sep 03, 2016 10:00 am

I just want a better ride and a little more clearance than stock. I also want to get 245/70/16 tires. So I need these for the front? http://jeepinbyal.com/teraflex-bump-stop.html

And there is nothing I can do other than hockey pucks for the rear? Just asking bc my mechanic is great but not a jeep specialist so I'm not sure what his reaction would be if I hand him 4 pucks and ask him to drill through the center and bolt them on.

Lift for 2012 KK - Skyjacker vs. OME

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