BDS 6.5 Inch Long Arm Lift Kit | Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001) | Dana 35 Rear Axle | NX2 Nitro Series Shocks

Configured for the Dana 35 rear axle with 2-3/4" wide u-bolts, paired with NX2 Nitro Series gas shocks specially tuned for this application.

Overview

This 6.5-inch long arm lift kit from BDS Suspension is designed for the 1984–2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ. The kit includes everything needed to lift the vehicle and provide clearance for up to 33" tires. By maximizing the length of both the upper and lower control arms, caster change is minimized for optimal handling and reduced road forces. The control arm geometry is built around a massive belly pan that incorporates the link mounts and is engineered to withstand rock impacts. This system installs without welding to the unibody.

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" Pro-Ride coil springs capable of full coil bind, bump stop extensions, braided stainless-steel brake lines, ultimate sway bar disconnects, a front-adjustable track bar with a flex joint, and a drop pitman arm. The rear kit utilizes Glide-Ride leaf springs, stainless-steel braided brake lines, and extended shackles to allow the springs to flex.

Long Arm Conversion

The long arm upgrade consists of massive 1/4" steel frame-mounted brackets paired with 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. The upper arms are solid stock, while the heavy-wall tubular lower arms use oversized greaseable polyurethane bushings for superior road vibration isolation.

Pro-Ride Coil Springs

Full-length, Jeep-specific Pro-Ride coil springs are included to provide the correct lift height and a smooth, predictable ride. Manufactured from high-tensile steel with properly sized wire diameters, these direct OE replacement coil springs are engineered for maximum reliability without premature coil bind.

Features

• Redesigned 4-link long arm to improve articulation and offer better control throughout wheel travel
• Pro-Ride coil springs for improved ride quality and more articulation
• Massive belly pan incorporating link mounts, built to withstand rock impacts
• Glide-Ride leaf springs to provide full lift height and increased capacity
• Sway bar quick disconnects and extended rear link for improved off-road flex
• Front HD track bar to correctly position the front axle and control lateral movement
• Choice of NX2 Nitro Series gas or FOX 2.0 IFP Performance Series shocks for improved damping
• 100% bolt-on installation — no welding to the unibody required
• Provides clearance for up to 33" tires

Specifications

• Lift Height: 6.5 inches
• Front: 4.5" Pro-Ride coil springs, belly pan with pivot mounts, heavy-duty lower flex arms, adjustable upper flex arms, bump stop extensions, braided stainless-steel brake lines, sway bar disconnects, adjustable front track bar with flex joint, drop pitman arm
• Rear: Glide-Ride leaf springs, extended shackles, braided stainless-steel brake lines
• Long arm frame brackets: 1/4" steel
• Lower long arms: heavy-wall tubular with oversized greaseable polyurethane bushings
• Upper long arms: solid stock, adjustable
• Shock options: NX2 Nitro Series gas shocks or FOX 2.0 IFP Performance Series gas shocks
• Tire clearance: up to 33"

Installation

• Estimated Time: 10 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Tools Required: Cut-Off Wheel or equivalent, Torque Wrench, Drill/Bit Set, Jack/Jack Stands, Pitman Arm Puller, Welding Equipment

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.
• The Jeep Cherokee was produced with two different rear axles (Chrysler 8.25 or Dana 35). Chrysler axles require 3" wide u-bolts; Dana 35 axles require 2-3/4" wide u-bolts. Some 1987–90 models came with a Dana 44.
• A CV-style rear driveshaft (not included) and slip yoke eliminator kit are required.
• This system is compatible with the 4.0L motor and automatic transmission only.
• Some welding is required.
• 1996 and earlier models may require a longer emergency brake cable.