BDS 4.5 Inch Long Arm Lift Kit | Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001) | Dana 35 Axle | FOX 2.0 Performance Series

Configured for the Dana 35 rear axle — includes 2-3/4-inch wide rear u-bolts for correct fitment. Paired with FOX 2.0 Performance Series shocks featuring a 2-inch impact extruded aluminum body, internal floating piston (IFP) monotube design, CNC machined 6061-T6 aluminum mounting ends, massive 5/8-inch hard chrome plated heat-treated alloy steel shaft, race-developed high-flow piston, application-specific valving, and a long-lasting clear anodized finish.

Overview

This 4.5-inch long arm lift kit from BDS Suspension is designed for the 1984–2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ. The kit includes everything needed to improve stance and provide clearance for up to 32-inch tires. By maximizing the length of both upper and lower control arms, the design minimizes caster change for improved handling and reduced road forces. The control arm geometry is built around a massive belly pan that incorporates link mounts and is engineered to withstand rock contact. The system is completely bolt-on with no welding to the unibody required.

Up front, the kit includes a belly pan with new pivot mounts, heavy-duty lower flex arms, and adjustable upper flex arms, along with 4.5-inch Pro-Ride coil springs capable of full coil bind, bump stop extensions, braided stainless steel brake lines, ultimate sway bar disconnects, and a front adjustable track bar with flex joint that fits into the existing frame mount. The rear kit uses Glide-Ride leaf springs for maximum travel and a stainless braided brake line.

The long arm conversion upgrades the standard control arms using massive 1/4-inch steel frame-mounted brackets and oversized upper and lower formed long arms. The arms are formed for maximum tire clearance and allow the stock control arm tabs to remain on the vehicle. Upper arms are solid stock, while the heavy-wall tubular lower arms use oversized greaseable polyurethane bushings for road vibration isolation.

Pro-Ride coil springs are full-length, Jeep-specific units manufactured from high tensile steel with properly sized wire diameter for maximum reliability without premature coil bind.

Features

• Redesigned 4-link long arm system to improve articulation and control throughout wheel travel
• Pro-Ride coil springs for improved ride quality and increased articulation
• Massive belly pan incorporating link mounts, built to withstand rock contact
• Glide-Ride leaf springs for full lift height and increased capacity
• Sway bar quick disconnects and extended rear link for improved off-road flex
• Front heavy-duty track bar to correctly position the front axle and control lateral movement
• Choice of NX2 Nitro Series or FOX 2.0 Performance Series shocks for improved damping
• 100% bolt-on installation — no welding to the unibody required
• Provides clearance for up to 32-inch tires

Specifications

• Lift Height: 4.5 inches
• Long arm conversion with 1/4-inch steel frame-mounted brackets
• Oversized greaseable polyurethane bushings on lower arms
• Pro-Ride coil springs: high tensile steel, full-length, direct OE replacement
• Glide-Ride rear leaf springs
• Braided stainless steel brake lines (front and rear)
• Front adjustable track bar with flex joint
• Ultimate sway bar disconnects
• Bump stop extensions included
• Tire clearance: up to 32 inches

Installation

• Estimated Time: 8 hours
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Tools Required: Cut-Off Wheel or equivalent, Torque Wrench, Drill/Bit Set, Jack/Jack Stands, Pitman Arm Puller

Important Notes

• Measure the rear u-bolts before ordering. Some XJ models are equipped with a Dana 44 rear axle — measure and contact BDS for proper u-bolt fitment.
• A CV-style rear driveshaft (not included) and a slip yoke eliminator kit are required.
• This system is compatible with the 4.0L motor and automatic transmission only.
• 1996 and earlier models may require a longer emergency brake cable.