BDS 8.5 Inch Long Arm Lift Kit | Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001) | Dana 35 Axle | NX2 Nitro Series Shocks

Configured for vehicles with the Dana 35 rear axle (requires 2-3/4-inch wide u-bolts) and includes NX2 Nitro Series shocks featuring a nitrogen-charged twin-tube design, 10-stage velocity-sensitive valving, dual-welded ends for increased strength, a 1-3/8-inch high-flow piston, self-lubricating seals, and a silver powder coat finish.

Overview

This 8.5-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 35-inch tires. By maximizing the length of both the upper and lower control arms, BDS has minimized caster change for optimal handling and reduced road forces. The control arm geometry is supported by a massive belly pan that incorporates the link mounts and is engineered for rock contact. This system is bolt-on with no welding to the unibody required for the core installation.

Up front, the kit includes a belly pan with new pivot mounts, heavy duty lower flex arms, and adjustable upper flex arms to optimize handling characteristics. Pro-Ride 4.5-inch coil springs are capable of full coil bind, and bump stop extensions help control compression travel while increasing wheel travel. Also included are braided stainless steel brake lines, ultimate sway bar disconnects, a front adjustable track bar with flex joint that fits the existing frame mount, and a drop pitman arm to improve steering and handling geometry.

The rear kit utilizes Glide-Ride leaf springs for maximum travel, a stainless braided brake line, 2-inch lift blocks, and extended shackles that allow the spring to flex freely. The long arm conversion consists of massive 1/4-inch steel frame-mounted brackets 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.

Features

• Redesigned 4-link long arm to improve articulation and offer better control throughout wheel travel
• Pro-Ride coil springs offer improved ride quality and more articulation
• Massive belly pan that incorporates the link mounts and is built to smash rocks
• Glide-Ride leaf springs to provide full lift height and increased capacity
• Sway bar quicker 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
• Easy, 100% bolt-on installation
• Allows clearance for 35-inch tires

Specifications

• Lift Height: 8.5 inches
• Control arm configuration: Long arm 4-link conversion
• Frame brackets: 1/4-inch steel, frame-mounted
• Lower arms: Heavy wall tubular with oversized greaseable polyurethane bushings
• Upper arms: Solid stock
• Front coil springs: 4.5-inch Pro-Ride, high tensile steel, full-length
• Rear springs: Glide-Ride leaf springs with extended shackles and 2-inch lift blocks
• Brake lines: Braided stainless steel (front and rear)
• Includes: Drop pitman arm, adjustable front track bar with flex joint, sway bar disconnects, bump stop extensions

Installation

• Estimated Time: 10 hours
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Tools Required: Cut-off wheel or equivalent, torque wrench, drill and bit set, jack and jack stands, pitman arm puller, welding equipment

Important Notes

• Measure the rear u-bolts before ordering. Some XJs are equipped with a Dana 44 rear axle — measure and contact BDS for proper u-bolt fitment.
• Chrysler 8.25 axles require 3-inch wide u-bolts; Dana 35 axles require 2-3/4-inch wide u-bolts. Some 1987–90 models came with a Dana 44.
• A CV-style rear driveshaft (not included) and a slip yoke eliminator kit are required.
• This system is compatible with the 4.0L engine and automatic transmission only.
• Some welding is required.
• 1996 and earlier models may require a longer emergency brake cable.