How To Measure Lift On Jeep Jk

How to Measure Lift on Your Jeep JK

So, you've lifted your Jeep JK, but how much lift did you actually achieve? Knowing your exact lift height is crucial for several reasons: ensuring proper drivetrain angles, selecting appropriate tires, and understanding your vehicle's overall performance. This guide will walk you through the process of accurately measuring your Jeep JK's lift.

Why Measure Your Jeep JK's Lift?

Accurately measuring your lift isn't just about bragging rights; it's essential for several key reasons:

• Drivetrain Angles: Excessive lift can lead to problematic drivetrain angles, potentially causing premature wear and tear on components like your CV axles and U-joints. Knowing your lift height helps determine if these angles are within safe parameters.
• Tire Selection: The lift height dictates the maximum tire size you can safely fit without rubbing or interfering with other parts of your Jeep.
• Performance & Handling: Lift height significantly impacts your Jeep's handling and performance. Knowing the exact lift helps you understand and optimize these aspects.
• Troubleshooting: If you're experiencing issues like vibrations or rubbing, knowing your lift height is invaluable for diagnosing the problem.

Tools You'll Need

Before you begin, gather these essential tools:

• Measuring Tape: A reliable tape measure is crucial for accurate measurements.
• Level: A bubble level ensures accurate readings, preventing skewed results.
• Assistant (Optional but Recommended): Having someone help makes the measuring process significantly easier and more accurate.
• Notebook and Pen: Jot down your measurements for future reference.

How to Measure Your Jeep JK Lift: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here's a detailed process for measuring your Jeep JK's lift:

1. Preparing Your Jeep:

• Park on a Level Surface: This is paramount. Uneven ground will lead to inaccurate measurements.
• Deflate Tires (Slightly): Slightly deflating your tires reduces the impact of tire pressure on the measurement, providing a more accurate representation of the lift.

2. Measuring the Lift:

There are several methods for measuring your Jeep JK lift. Here's how to perform each one:

• Measuring from the Ground to the Frame: This is the most common method. Using your level, ensure your Jeep is perfectly level. Measure the distance from the ground to a specific point on your Jeep's frame (like the lower control arm mounting point or a specific point on the frame rail). Note this measurement. Then, compare this measurement to the factory specification for your Jeep JK model. The difference between these numbers represents your lift height.

• Measuring from the Center of the Wheel to the Fender: Measure from the center of the wheel to the top of your fender. Compare this measurement to the factory specification for your Jeep JK model. This is a suitable method to determine the lift; it is not as precise as the method of measuring the chassis but gives a rough estimate.

• Measuring from the Ground to the Axle: You can measure from the ground to the center of the axle. This method measures only the suspension lift and not the body lift. Compare this measurement to your Jeep JK's factory specifications to determine the lift.

3. Documenting Your Measurements:

Record all measurements in your notebook. Include the date, location, and the method used for measurement. This information is invaluable for future reference and troubleshooting.

Interpreting Your Measurements:

Once you've completed your measurements, compare them to your Jeep JK's factory specifications. The difference between the factory measurement and your measured height represents your actual lift height.

Conclusion:

Accurately measuring your Jeep JK's lift is a vital step in ensuring its safe and proper operation. By following these steps, you can confidently determine your lift height and maintain optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle. Remember consistency is key – always measure from the same points and under similar conditions for the most accurate results. Remember safety first, always consult with a professional if you have doubts.