Ever dreamed of tackling tougher trails and giving your Jeep CJ7 a rugged, commanding stance? That classic CJ7 is a legend, but sometimes, it needs a little boost to truly conquer the wild. If you’re nodding your head, you’ve probably found yourself staring at a dizzying array of lift kits, wondering which one is the *right* one for your beloved Jeep.
Choosing a lift kit can feel like navigating a maze. You want better ground clearance for off-roading, but you also need to keep your CJ7 street-legal and comfortable for everyday drives. The wrong kit can lead to bumpy rides, steering issues, or even damage to your Jeep. It’s a big decision that affects how your CJ7 performs and looks.
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! This guide is designed to cut through the confusion. We’ll break down what really matters when picking a CJ7 lift kit, from the different heights available to the parts you’ll need. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have the confidence to choose a lift kit that transforms your CJ7 into the capable off-road machine you’ve always wanted.
Our Top 5 Cj7 Lift Kit Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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BDS405H | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Rough Country 2.5″ Suspension Lift Kit for 1976-1983 Jeep CJ7 4WD – 61030 | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Skyjacker Suspensions J41bkh 76-86 Jeep Cj 4wd 4sport Ser Sys | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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BDS407H | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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Skyjacker Suspensions J21bkh 76-86 Jeep Cj 4wd 2.5sport Ser Sys | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Cj7 Lift Kit Detailed Reviews
1. BDS405H
Rating: 9.0/10
Ready to give your Jeep CJ5 or CJ7 from 1982-1986 a serious upgrade? The BDS405H lift kit is here to help! This kit brings a 2.5-inch lift to both the front and rear of your Jeep. It also includes powerful NX2 Nitro shocks. These parts work together to give your Jeep a tougher look and better off-road performance.
What We Like:
- Installation is super easy. It’s a 100% bolt-on kit, meaning no tricky welding or cutting is needed.
- The Glideride leaf springs are a big plus. They give you the full 2.5 inches of lift you want. They also help your Jeep carry more weight, which is great for gear.
- The NX2 Nitro shocks are made just for your Jeep. This means they provide excellent control and a smoother ride, even on rough trails.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the lift is a good size, some off-road enthusiasts might want more height for bigger tires.
- The kit focuses on a bolt-on design, which is great for ease, but doesn’t offer adjustable components for fine-tuning.
This BDS lift kit is a fantastic way to improve your Jeep’s stance and capability. It makes getting a lifted look and better performance straightforward.
2. Rough Country 2.5″ Suspension Lift Kit for 1976-1983 Jeep CJ7 4WD – 61030
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to make your 1976-1983 Jeep CJ7 look tougher and perform better? The Rough Country 2.5″ Suspension Lift Kit is here. This kit gives your Jeep a great mix of looks and capability. It helps your Jeep tackle rougher terrain while still feeling comfortable on your daily drives. You’ll get more ground clearance to clear obstacles and a smoother ride, all thanks to Rough Country’s smart design.
What We Like:
- Gives your Jeep CJ the perfect mix of performance, protection, and style.
- Provides unmatched ground clearance for tackling tough trails.
- Includes premium N3 Shock Absorbers for excellent performance on and off the road.
- Maintains a smooth, OEM-like ride quality.
- Levels the front of your Jeep with the rear for a better stance.
- Uses precision laser-cut materials made with advanced CAD processes for a perfect fit.
- Comes with Rough Country’s Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might require some mechanical knowledge or tools.
- The 2.5″ lift is a good starting point, but some may want more height for extreme off-roading.
This Rough Country lift kit is a fantastic upgrade for your classic Jeep CJ7. It balances improved capability with a comfortable ride, making your Jeep ready for adventure.
3. Skyjacker Suspensions J41bkh 76-86 Jeep Cj 4wd 4sport Ser Sys
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to give your 1976-1986 Jeep CJ a serious upgrade? The Skyjacker Suspensions J41bkh 4Sport Series System is here to help! This kit is designed for 4-wheel drive CJs, letting you fit bigger tires for better off-road adventures. You can put on tires up to 33 inches tall and 12.5 inches wide. It also works with 15-inch wheels that are 10 inches wide. The backspacing needed is 3.75 inches. This means your Jeep will look tougher and perform better when you hit the trails.
What We Like:
- Allows for larger tires (up to 33 x 12.5 inches) for improved off-road capability and aggressive looks.
- Designed specifically for 1976-1986 Jeep CJ 4WD models, ensuring a proper fit.
- Includes all the necessary components to complete the suspension upgrade.
- Skyjacker is a well-known brand for suspension parts, suggesting good quality and performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific tire and wheel size limitations might not suit everyone’s desired setup.
- Installation can be complex, potentially requiring professional help if you’re not experienced with suspension work.
- The “4Sport Series” designation doesn’t clearly explain the exact lift height or specific benefits beyond tire clearance.
This Skyjacker suspension system is a solid choice for Jeep CJ owners wanting to improve their vehicle’s stance and off-road readiness. It opens up possibilities for bigger tires, making your CJ ready for more demanding terrain.
4. BDS407H
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to give your classic Jeep CJ5 or CJ7 a serious upgrade? The BDS407H 4-inch Full Suspension Lift Kit is here to do just that. This kit is designed for Jeep models from 1976 to 1981, giving them a commanding stance and improved off-road capability. With this kit, you get both front and rear suspension lift, plus NX2 Nitro shocks for a smoother ride.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to install because it’s a 100% bolt-on kit. You won’t need to cut or weld anything.
- The Glideride leaf springs give you the full 4 inches of lift you want. They also help your Jeep carry more weight.
- The NX2 Nitro shocks are made just for your Jeep. They have special tuning to give you better control on and off the road.
- This kit makes your Jeep look tougher and ready for adventure.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the installation is easy, it still requires some basic tools and mechanical knowledge.
- The kit is specifically for 1976-1981 CJ5/CJ7 models, so it won’t fit newer or older Jeeps.
This BDS lift kit is a fantastic way to improve your Jeep’s performance and appearance. It offers a straightforward upgrade for a more capable and stylish ride.
5. Skyjacker Suspensions J21bkh 76-86 Jeep Cj 4wd 2.5sport Ser Sys
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to give your 1976-1986 Jeep CJ a serious upgrade? The Skyjacker Suspensions J21bkh 2.5-inch Sport Series Suspension System is designed to do just that. This kit is perfect for Jeep CJ owners who want a little more ground clearance and the ability to fit bigger tires for off-road adventures. It’s a straightforward way to improve your Jeep’s look and its capability on the trail.
What We Like:
- This kit gives your Jeep CJ a 2.5-inch lift.
- It allows you to fit larger tires, up to 31 x 12.5 inches.
- The system is designed for 4WD Jeep CJs from 1976 to 1986.
- It comes with everything you need for the suspension upgrade.
- Skyjacker is known for making tough suspension parts.
- This kit improves your Jeep’s off-road performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might require some mechanical knowledge.
- You’ll need specific wheel sizes (15×8) with 3.75 inches of backspacing for optimal tire fitment.
- This kit is specifically for older Jeep CJ models.
This Skyjacker suspension system is a solid choice for any 1976-1986 Jeep CJ owner looking for a moderate lift and bigger tires. It offers a good balance of performance and practicality for your off-road needs.
Get Your CJ7 Ready to Roam: The Ultimate Lift Kit Buying Guide
So, you’ve got a classic Jeep CJ7 and you’re ready to give it some serious attitude and capability. A lift kit is the way to go! It’s like giving your CJ7 a new pair of boots – taller, tougher, and ready for adventure. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
What to Look for in a CJ7 Lift Kit
When you’re shopping for a lift kit, think about what you want your CJ7 to do.
Key Features to Look For:
- Lift Height: This is how much higher your Jeep will sit off the ground. Common heights are 2.5 inches, 4 inches, and 6 inches. Taller lifts let you fit bigger tires, which are great for off-roading.
- Suspension Type: There are a few main types.
- Spring Over Axle (SOA): This is a popular and effective way to get a lot of lift. It involves moving the leaf springs from under the axle to on top of it.
- Shackle Lift: This uses longer shackles to lift the Jeep. It’s a simpler and less expensive option.
- Budget/Entry-Level Kits: These might just include longer shackles or basic spacers.
- Included Components: A good kit will have everything you need. This often includes longer shocks, extended brake lines, sway bar disconnects (if applicable), and sometimes new U-bolts or spring perches.
- Alignment Correction: Some kits include parts to help with alignment after lifting, like adjustable control arms or drop pitman arms.
Understanding the Materials
The stuff your lift kit is made of really matters. It affects how long it lasts and how well it performs.
Important Materials:
- Steel: Most lift kits are made of strong steel. Look for powder-coated steel. This coating helps prevent rust and keeps your kit looking good for years.
- Aluminum: Some spacers or smaller components might be made of aluminum. It’s lighter than steel but still strong.
- Rubber or Polyurethane Bushings: These are used in places where parts connect. Good bushings help soak up bumps and vibrations, making for a smoother ride.
What Makes a Lift Kit Great (or Not So Great)?
Not all lift kits are created equal. Here’s what can make a difference.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality:
- Brand Reputation: Stick with well-known brands that have a good track record for Jeep parts. They often use better materials and have better designs.
- Completeness of the Kit: A kit that includes all necessary parts is a big plus. Having to buy extra pieces can be annoying and costly.
- Quality of Welds and Finish: Look for clean welds and a smooth powder coat. This shows that the manufacturer pays attention to detail.
- Ride Quality: Some kits are designed for pure off-road performance and might make your daily drive a bit rough. Others try to balance off-road capability with a comfortable ride.
Real-World Use: How You’ll Use Your Lifted CJ7
Think about where you’ll be driving your CJ7.
User Experience and Use Cases:
- Daily Driving: If you use your CJ7 as a daily driver, you’ll want a kit that doesn’t make the ride too harsh. Kits with good shocks and bushings will help.
- Weekend Warrior Off-Roading: If you love hitting the trails, you’ll want a kit that gives you good ground clearance and can handle tough terrain. A Spring Over Axle (SOA) conversion is often a great choice here.
- Show and Shine: If you want your CJ7 to look tough and aggressive, a taller lift with bigger tires will definitely turn heads.
Frequently Asked Questions about CJ7 Lift Kits
Q: What is the most common lift height for a CJ7?
A: The most common lift heights are 2.5 inches and 4 inches. These heights allow for bigger tires without needing too many other suspension modifications.
Q: Do I need to upgrade my shocks when I lift my CJ7?
A: Yes, almost always. Lifting your Jeep changes the angles and travel of your suspension. You’ll need longer shocks to match the new height and allow your suspension to work correctly.
Q: Will a lift kit affect my Jeep’s steering?
A: It can. Taller lifts, especially, can change the steering geometry. Some kits include parts like drop pitman arms or adjustable track bars to help correct this and maintain good steering.
Q: What size tires can I fit with a 4-inch lift?
A: With a 4-inch lift, you can typically fit 33-inch or 35-inch tires. You might need to do some minor fender trimming for larger tires.
Q: Is a Spring Over Axle (SOA) conversion a good idea for my CJ7?
A: An SOA conversion is a very effective way to get significant lift and improve off-road articulation. However, it often requires more modifications, like new shock mounts and possibly driveshaft adjustments.
Q: What does a “shackle lift” mean?
A: A shackle lift uses longer shackles (the links that connect your leaf springs to your Jeep’s frame) to raise the body of your CJ7. It’s a simpler and more budget-friendly lift option.
Q: How long does it take to install a CJ7 lift kit?
A: Installation time can vary greatly depending on the kit and your mechanical skill. A simple shackle lift might take a few hours, while a more complex kit like an SOA could take a full weekend or longer.
Q: Will a lift kit make my ride rougher?
A: It can, especially with taller lifts or stiffer shocks. However, choosing a kit with quality shocks and bushings can help minimize the impact on ride comfort.
Q: Do I need to get an alignment after installing a lift kit?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended. Lifting your Jeep can change the angles of your steering and suspension components, and an alignment will ensure your tires wear evenly and your Jeep drives straight.
Q: Where can I find good quality CJ7 lift kits?
A: You can find CJ7 lift kits from reputable Jeep parts retailers online and at specialty off-road shops. Always check product reviews and brand reputations before buying.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Sean Kernan, the voice behind esteeringwheel.com.. With a passion for all things automotive, I created this platform to share my journey, insights, and expertise about cars. From the latest tech to timeless driving tips, my goal is to help fellow enthusiasts and everyday drivers navigate the fascinating world of automobiles. Welcome to my corner of the road—let’s steer toward knowledge and discovery together!