Looks like we're both on the same page....not interested in putting a grand into the KJ suspension right now.

I'm installing the Napa-branded shocks today...but they are really Monro-Matic Plus Gas Shocks with a Napa logo and part number. They're the same working dimension as the Rancho shock for a 2003 Dodge Durango 4WD

Rancho and Monroe are both made/owned by Tenneco Corp, a huge shock maker. The OE replacements are billed as replacements for stock ride, and the Ranchos are billed as, among other things as "superior offroad control..." For me, that's too stiff riding.

If you want to go really cheap, and don't intend to wheel your KJ, and plan on replacing your struts anyways in a few years, the OTT 2.5" lift may work for you...but use extended bumpstops in the front! I did mine for $229 with the Napa shocks.

Just keep in mind this isn't the setup for offroad use.

I've got about 500 miles on mine so far, and its smooth as stock.....which is great for 8-hour drives.

michael
I will match your ride any day , on any road, with my too stiff riding springs and shocks
mines way better than stock, doesn't bottom out on RR tracks now, on the big road it just flat cruises.

Tom

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MUDD'S MOTORSPORT'S We do IFS lift installs ,
03 OVERLAND EDITION /Kilby-Skidrow-Mopar-4XGuard skids/ 2.5 inch TOTAL CONTROL JBA coilovers -JBA Arms/MOABS-31 FALKEN WILDPEAK AT3W / 4.10's etc, 04 Kilimanjaro Edition loaded, plus 05 KJ limited

Tom, I'm glad you're happy with your ride. That's the goal. But I gotta tell ya, I don't care what everyone else is doing, for me, I have to have a soft ride. I used to roadrace motorcycles many years ago Laguna Seca, Sears Point, and Willow Springs, and learned then about taking advice from others at the track, about what is "THE BEST TO USE", etc.

Now I really do appreciate you sharing your hard-earned experience, but one size doesn't fit all. I'm not trying to convert anyone, just showing there's more than one way to lift your KJ...depending on what you intend to use it for, and how much you can afford. If I hve this ride for a few years, I WILL change my front springs/struts, but for now, stock is fine.

I broke my back about 10 years ago, so for me, Baja-style suspensions are the way to go...lots of travel and smooth landings. But you can't do that with a barely-modified KJ. So I keep the stock ride, add a little lift, and tow my ATV's with it. Now if I could make my KJ ride like my Polaris Sportsman, I'd be as happy as you are. IFS and IRS, 11" of clearance, hangs on the turns at 55mph, makes washboard roads feel like glass, eats up basketball sized boulders.

I live about 3 hours from the Rubicon trail and Fordyce Creek trail...I'd be happy to watch your KJ run those. It's a blast on the ATV's...just A LOT of winching.
~M

I think when I do lift it, I will get the best I can. Best option that is a decent price is the bds lift, but if I end up with the cash, I can get a ome lift for a "reasonable" price... I like the ride as is, but many would vote I need a smoother ride

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02 KJ "Frank The Turtle"
http://www.cardomain.com/ride/3111598