How To Install a Full Suspension Lift Kit

I have made hundreds of videos.... But i have yet to made a video on how to install a full lift kit!!
Want to save some money and install your own lift kit? Maybe you want to learn a little more about how your suspension works and what each component actually does.
In this video we install a Clayton Offroad 3.5" Overland Plus suspension kit.
I am using my 2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, however this install is practically the same for any solid axle jeep with coil springs (even with non Jeeps).
A Jeep Wrangler will have practically the exact same steps. I realized the other day, that i had never made a lift kit install video (Mostly due to the fact that i started my KZbin channel very late into my offroading hobby).
I hope this video can help you guys out, whether you are new to Jeeps, or maybe you want to see some tips and tricks. And for those of you looking to install a lift kit on a Jeep Gladiator then this will be pretty much step by step.
Here is the lift kit i am installing in this video.
www.claytonoffroad.com/produc...
Here is a video of this lift kit in action:
• Trail Testing Our New ...
Lets get back to the basics....
How do you know when you need a full suspension lift kit?
I will try to make this simple, if your going over 2.5" of lift then i suggest a full lift kit that has the following items;
Coil Springs- The things that actually lift your Jeep!
Control Arms- These are what connect your axle to the frame, the front arms control positioning as well as caster and pinion angle alignment. The rear control axle positioning and pinion angle.
Trackbars- These located your axle from side to side. When lifting your jeep, the axles will actually shift over to one side, requiring an adjustable trackbar to re-center them.
Bumpstops- To limit uptravel for larger tire size increase.
Shocks- In this case, the clayton kit lets us choose our own shocks. I chose the Fox Performance shocks that are actually labeled for 4-6" lifts.. This allowed me to gain some extra down travel in the shock. Its important to look at the extended and collapsed length of shocks and verify that it will work with your setup.
Sway Bar Links- Lifting the jeep means we need longer sway bar links to keep them parallel.
All of these adjustable components allow us to fine tune our rig, and really make it drive well. The adjustability allows us to dial in the suspension and negate the side affects of a lifted ride height.
I am extremely happy with this lift kit so far, it rides amazing on the road, and handles perfectly offroad. Make sure your subscribed to the channel to see more videos!!
Thank you for watching, and please let me know if you have any questions.
Like always, give the video a thumbs up, subscribe to the channel, and leave a comment!!
Thanks,
Ben
Links to helpful items;
Floor Jack: amzn.to/2uQUmtr (Or go to your local Harbor Freight)
Jack Stands: 6 Ton for Lifted jeeps and the extra frame height- amzn.to/37s4Dtz
1/2" Drive Socket set- Standard amzn.to/2uQUusV Metric amzn.to/2uD9U49
Wrench Set- amzn.to/3bCzjvv
Electric Impact- amzn.to/2OX1rzC
Crows foot wrench set for tightening Jam Nuts- amzn.to/2SMd7q1 or use large wrench
Lift kit: www.claytonoffroad.com
Shocks: Fox 4.5"-6" Part numbers FOX-985-24-222 FOX-985-24-181 (Call Gill at Offroad Elements and tell her i sent you, she will give you good pricing, 774--826-9948

[@PowerTankOfficial]

I really like how you've gone through different manufacturers. You're not doing apples to apples comparisons since the kits themselves are different (spacer vs leveling vs suspension system) but you get a good feel for the quality and care that the manufacturers put out. The variety gives us a good breadth of knowledge on how to build our new Gladiator.

[@ernieturner1342]

My favorite Jeep content on the KZbin! Thanks for the great knowledge, you empower everyone to take care of their own work on Jeeps! Thank you so much to you and your family Ben!

[@michaelmurray2592]

Super video Ben! I am leaning towards Clayton for my JTR. You did make that look simple doing it by yourself. Great job man!

[@davemurray8421]

Yup, I'm definitely jonesing for a Gladiator. Looks as great as it performs. Looking forward to more project on all 3 rigs!

[@prh1968]

Nice video! I feel confident that I can install one now...Ordering Camo Croc and lift now! Thanks for what you do!!

[@diehardnolefan]

Long time listener, first time caller. I’ve been watching your videos on FB for a while, but I finally pulled the trigger and subscribed on KZbin. It’s not something I normally do, but I had to jump on and tell you how much I’ve enjoyed keeping up with your Gladiator build. I’m a long ways behind, but I’m loving mine, and I can’t wait to get my lift on this summer. Keep up the good work, and I look forward to more videos.

[@ES-lh1tj]

Good choice on the lift. I've been running long arm Clayton lifts for two years now on my JK's. No issues.

[@lexiegayable]

Really appreciate the video. I'm giving myself a good bit of time to collect all the equipment needed and to learn as much as I can before I give it a go, but I'm hoping by this time next year (Aug 2021) I'll be installing a 3.5" on my 2017 JK. This is my first Jeep, I finally...finalllly got one, and I'm so stoked to become more than an owner. This will be the biggest project I've ever done. Really enjoy your channel. Thanks for sharing!

[@adamaldinger6960]

As always great video! Thanks for the run down of the kit. Great advice looking forward future installs!!

[@Brother_Lander]

Saw a Gladiator on the trail for my first time yesterday. Thing did pretty well. I definitely want one

[@brucemartin835]

Another awesome video with detailed explanations of what and why. Thank you and keep up the great work!

[@Scott_69HemiDart]

OUTSTANDING install video.......................truck looks great!!

[@fjnagle2nd]

When re-installing your track bar (front or rear) I used a ratchet strap when installing my Zone Off Road 3" lift in my 95 XJ. Worked great as I was doing the job on a twin post lift.

[@krashnpa]

Looks good with the 3.5 lift! I like it!

[@yipeeiaye]

Good Video - regardless of how many times we have seen "lift" videos. About to put a new lift on my JT so this was a good refresher!

[@co4x4]

Just wanted to say I really like that you're always willing to offer help to others by answering questions...good man! Cheers from Denver Colorado!

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Thank you! Hopefully I’ll get out to CO sometime!

[@co4x4]

@@JKGearandGadgets wifey, kids and I are always wheeling during the season. Hit me up and will hit some stunning scenic trails.

[@jerrytaylor2743]

Thanks for the response love the channel and honest reviews!!

[@redbarry2540]

Gillian & Eric always do me right, great personal touch when working with them. Enjoy the lift, looks beefy!!

[@JTRSpartacus]

great stuff --thanks for posting. I'm loving the Clayton Offroad stuff

[@Sami-rp7mf]

That was just amazing. Not a handy man so need to get this done outside but loves it. Thank you for posting it

[@beefiestacorn88]

Great video, Ben! Love how you still cover the basics for people with a little less knowledge but keep it fun for everyone. Trucks really coming along!

[@craftbeerenthusiastunion2237]

Hey man! Great vid! I’m probably going to be using a lift from Clayton Off-road (they’re local to me!) so it was nice to see your results.

[@batsoffroad607]

Ben! Thanks for the info on Jill with Offroad Elements. I have been looking and looking for shocks. After I watched this video, I called her and was completely surprised to find out they had the exact shocks I was looking for IN STOCK! ALSO... I ordered this exact lift kit from Clayton Offroad for my JT. We always enjoy your video's. Very informative. Thanks!

[@bibbedvermin8213]

Love watching your videos can't wait to see what you do next.

[@barebonesdiving77]

Another great video, always enjoy seeing what your up to.

[@rangethetrail]

good install video! wish i had seen it 5 years ago when i did my first lift - woulda cut DAYS off of my install time. LMAO. i liked the new-camera-time-lapse-rig you were using too! nice!

[@jonathanbahr1]

I watched this an obscene amount of times and it really sold me on the Clayton lift and helped me fly through my first ever lift on my first ever Jeep. Thanks!

[@tony1youtube]

Best lift kit install video as I just put mine on 7 hrs ago, I wish I had watched your video before my install

[@jeremynichols1326]

Great job Ben the gladiator looks awesome keep up the great work and awesome videos.

[@Sam001986]

Awesome work, thank you for all the content brother

[@danarteritano1340]

Sweet setup, I think I can tackle installing a lift.

[@rocko8153]

Great video mann ! You have motivated me to do my own lift ... thank you ..

[@colebass8945]

Inspiring work man! Thank you!

[@travismerrix4391]

Great install video as always can’t wait to tackle my 3.5 rock krawler X factor lift and move to 37’s

[@JoseAsellas]

Loving the gladiator ben nice work as always very good setup

[@austinpyatt]

Great video, love the detail.

[@ducks12345678901]

awesome and helpful video I'm about to install a new lift on my jk and this makes it seem really easy

[@henrystearns8887]

Great video Ben. Thanks for the training

[@PoisonSpyder038]

Great work as always

[@KeithStevensMoes]

Looks great thanks for the video !!

[@autoblog3922]

I really enjoy your videos! Super down to earth guy.

[@charlesconnor1737]

I wish you where my neighbor … you really make this stuff easy to understand … awesome video … I’m doing my gladiator lift today this video helps a lot… thanks

[@Donnietill]

Nice lift! I need for my Gladiator!

[@accordnc]

Great job. And that lift kit does look really nice.

[@joshmorton8697]

That Jt is looking beastly!!!!

[@invictuscenturion8468]

Doing my kit today. Thanks for the video

[@ronwhite7333]

Great video, thanks for all your information

[@bjornholmquist5019]

Great stuff, Ben! Thanks!

[@mikehoffman3690]

Lift looks great.

[@EricTheOld]

Great video, awesome editing

[@virginiasal9217]

Great video!! Very informative thank you

[@dc5631]

I did the evo lift. The fox shocks do good man. Love the vids by the way

[@BillyOnroad]

Lol throwing shade on the Liberty's.. I'm the same way when i see a lifted Renegade lol.. but to each their own. Dope install

[@nathanwoodard7661]

Looking forward to the light review I like the amber look 😋

[@courtneysalazar3908]

Love your videos!

[@caroleertel2961]

Another great video!

[@7CitiesVapesHampton]

another great vid Ben

[@djuell01]

Hey you know I'll take the old shocks in donation!! Ben I'll have to check out they they have for my 2011 JKU 🤘🏻👍🏻 love your videos been following since you put those JL good latches on your JK. Keep up the great videos!

[@OverlandCitrus]

Great vid as always

[@JeproksOffroad]

Great job ben! Great skill wish i have them

[@BunnyTJ]

Great Video Ben. I really like the flow just wish I had a shed like yours haha.

[@josepech1111]

Easy Peezy wow, thank you for sharing

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Thanks for watching

[@erikng1003]

U make it look so easy

[@user-cd5oo9xu3w]

Cool, hi from Samhain, I use fj , but want gladiator very much. After your video want it more )))

[@mightyd-max3717]

Hey man love the vids wish I saw this video be fore I purchased my metal cloak lift kit

[@manserm210]

Good information thanks

[@gremlin3362]

I’m trying to figure out how this video has 26 dislikes. Amazing video. Very informative. Thank you!

[@pacoruiz9928]

Thank you for the info buys a lift soon

[@johnfitzgerald5158]

I have found that pushing up slightly on the opposite knuckle with the floor jack caused the side you are working to droop further, allowing more room to sneak the spring in. At least this is what worked on my Ram which has the same 5 link set up. Wish I knew this trick when I did my TJ years ago.

[@ROgletree]

Nice job.

[@Stretcher1974]

Chamfer the thread ends of sway bar link and you will not have to use nuts to retread. I am just an old tool and die tech turned combat tank engineer giving you a tooling tip. Nice work and great explanation.

[@w.c.6678]

Nice vid. Very informative. Sponsors should pick you up. Except for the Crocks damaging your street-cred, couldn't be better. Thanks bro. God Bless.

[@JTRSpartacus]

Love this. Still saving pennies for Clayton Offroad lift!!! #JTRSPARTACUS

[@dwizl7213]

You make it look so easy! I'm so obsessed with the Core Doors on the JK in the background that it's distracting me from focusing on the task at hand. Wish Bestop would come out with them for the JL & JT. Are they paintable? Thinking they'd look way better color matched but haven't seen anyone with them painted yet.

[@marvelouslopero6556]

Thanks Bud

[@Thexkidd]

That tailgate is coming in handy

[@garonalabandian4033]

Another awesome video guys! Wondering if you noticed any difference between the rubicon oem fox shocks and the fox 2.0s?

[@MrRhartwell]

Good job

[@JP-tl8rr]

Great video as always, I have a 2012 JKU on 35's and 3.5 inch lift and was planing on getting a 3/4 ton truck as a tow vehicle but every time I see something new you do to the JT I am think that I want it instead and for go the 3/4 ton truck. Cant wait to see the next its you have for it.

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Well, if you want to use it as a towing truck, I wouldn’t get the JT.

[@JP-tl8rr]

No, i was thinking about forgoing the towing vehicle and just rock with the JT, Sorry i did not make that clearer on my first comment, love the videos...

[@jeromycloward1200]

Good vid👍

[@AntonioPerez-kk8cj]

I can't wait to see the video of the JT with doors and top removed. The JT is looking better and better in every new video Ben. 👍🏽

[@ivanfromtheeast4709]

Antonio Perez he already made one

[@AntonioPerez-kk8cj]

@@ivanfromtheeast4709 when? I must have missed it.

[@ivanfromtheeast4709]

Antonio Perez I think it was over the summer you can look back through his feed and find it

[@AntonioPerez-kk8cj]

@@ivanfromtheeast4709 found it, thanks.

[@jordanvinski3601]

Love the video, don’t know if I caught it what wheel do you have with the 37’s?

[@jesusgutierrez255]

Hello from Kansas City

[@3.zero.240]

Loving it!! I think you just sold me on this kit...just wondering if you have any of the issues I’ve seen with other kits where the springs tend to bow out? Keep the videos coming...

[@JKGearandGadgets]

So far, zero spring bowing! Even with the factory spring pads on the axle

[@3.zero.240]

JK Gear and Gadgets just want to say thank you for taking the time to make these videos...they are very informative....esp for some of us who have been out of the Jeep world for many years....or just new!

[@jimmybae8198]

Awesome install! Looks so easy when you do it! I've followed your install steps and able to complete my 3.5" lift kit on JT also. Thanks!!!! Did you change the driveshaft yet?

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Still on factory driveshafts! The front boot is ripped, but it doesn’t affect operation

[@jennmeeker4876]

Awesome video!!! I just got my new clayton kit in the mail, it actually came with a brand new rear track bar with a bend in it. When I called them they said it was their new design to help clear 37s a little easier, you should check it out or do a video and see how much it helps!

[@JKGearandGadgets]

That was my idea 😉. I’ve been running that prototype for a while now. It works great

[@tomasmatos.f2041]

Thanks

[@raycabrera941]

Ben can you do a up to date review on the Clayton lift, in on the fence between Clayton and Teraflex 2.5 lifts, help.

[@ELIDOG923]

cool video. I myself will install my lift once its here, anyways wanted to ask whats that front bumper you have on your JT?thanks

[@wranglerruh3239]

Nice 👏🏼☺️

[@embracingimage2187]

Great videos just subscribed if you have time will you please measure tallest point of your gladiator I want to run this size setup but want to still be able to fit it in my garage😬thank you sir have a great day👍🏽

[@Jaugie2200]

Beautiful build! Big lift big tires how’s mpg doing?

[@ms.karihart2983]

Awesome

[@danhambrick6331]

Nice job Ben.What did you do with all the "old" suspension parts?

[@user-jt6ph2fs7w]

@He gave them to me “

[@Do4now]

Did you regear when you put the 37’s on? Great video thanks so much!

[@reesegoetz134]

Any updates on the wheeling trip to rausch at the end of february? I am interested in attending!

[@50Racer00]

What front bumper is that on the Gladiator? I love it!

[@tonyholland6661]

Thanks for all your videos, love them. Have you done an update on this lift after you have used it? Pros and cons? If you can you drop a link I have looked but can't find it. Thanks for all you videos.

[@JKGearandGadgets]

I have not, but I will try to do a video like that soon. I still love the kit and highly recommend it.

[@skdevilchild]

Hi Ben - love the video. With this lift kit what is the total height of the truck? Hoping no more than 2.1metres?

[@jamesdbrot]

You got me undecided now that I watched your install video! I was going for the metalcloak lift kit and now I like the Clayton Offroad kit!! Haha In all those kits you have installed have you done the metalcloak? Great content I enjoy watching your videos and Cassie’s as well.

[@JKGearandGadgets]

I haven’t been in a JT with the Metalcloak kit. I had Metalcloak springs on my Jk. And it was nice, but sometimes the dual rate springs can be a little too soft or unpredictable for my liking. I must say, I really do like this Clayton kit so far.

[@jamesdbrot]

JK Gear and Gadgets I think I’m going with Clayton Offroad 😎

[@sethcromer2567]

Love your videos! Quick question did you change the front drive shaft? Metalcloak says you have to but just wondering what your thoughts are on the Clayton kit. Thank you

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Seth Cromer not with the 3.5