Jeep CJ7 Update 29 - It's All About the Lift!!

Almost ready to install a lift kit on the CJ7! Most likely going to go with the BDS Suspension 4 inch lift.

[@IndianaTony]

I did almost exactly what you are. When I got my CJ it had 6" shackles (1.5" lift) and was a bit scary. I replaced with OME springs 2.5" lift, but BDS seemed like a good option too. Most of the other hardware I got was the same or very similar...M.O.R.E. hangers and 4" shackles (.5" lift), crown brake lines, Warrior U-bolt skid plates and leaf spring shims (you may need these if you don't have them). I did the install myself which was mostly okay, but the bolts holding the old hangers were seized and broke off, so that part was a nightmare. Use plenty of penetrating oil and heat if they're stubborn. I also had to adjust some holes on the U-bolt plates as they didn't line up for my setup. Not a huge deal. Overall it rides awesome, has good flex, and I'm really happy with it. Good luck with the install!

[@JDOffline]

IndianaTony thanks Tony for the insight and feedback. It may be a month or so before I do it but I’ll post a video w the outcome. The bds kit should come w the shims hopefully. Stay tuned and thanks for the comment!

[@UCanDoIt2Mike]

A lot of great information here! Thanks for sharing... I have made several notes as this is coming up soon on my build. Cheers... Mike!

[@JDOffline]

Glad it was helpful and thanks for the comment and feedback.

[@wapiti128]

How much did the paint job cost?

[@JDOffline]

I want to say it was around $3,800. Keep in mind this was several years ago and I did a lot of prep in terms of stripping the Jeep down of bumpers all lights, fender flares, etc. This did not include the inside of the tub because I had that sprayed with Line X. It did include removing the fenders and painting the firewall (engine was out at the time). We also discovered some pretty pitted rust on the windshield frame under the hinges so instead of fooling with that, I replaced it and paid for that separate. Probably could spend less def could spend more but I'm pretty happy with the result and it's holding up well today. I would say it was a middle of the road paint job. Probably would cost more today like everything else does!! Hope this helps. JD

[@wapiti128]

@@JDOffline Yeah it does help. Thank you sir!

[@jamesjohnston9970]

Hey John, Did you go with springs designed for CJ or did you convert to YJ springs?

[@JDOffline]

James Johnston CJ springs all the way.

[@barrycarr4209]

Good Choice, the BDS is the one I have on my CJ7.

[@JDOffline]

Thanks Barry.

[@jim817]

Contemplating going with BDS. What is your overall take on them, ride quality, safety, flex?

[@JDOffline]

Jim, I have been extremely happy with the quality of the lift. It feels very safe, the ride quality is excellent and the flex is good as well. Haven't really tested the flex off road just on a trail through the woods and it was fine. I don't think you will be disappointed with the purchase or quality of the lift in any way. You will gain a lot of height with this lift! Check out my other videos in the series where I measure the lift and show before and after shots. Thanks for the comment Jim and let us know what you decide.

[@freightpimp]

Hey man...nice rig! Completely off the topic of this video but, what headlights are those? They look awesome! Do they put out plenty of light? Thanks in advance for the info.

[@JDOffline]

Hey Jamie! Thanks for the compliment. I really like the headlights and they are much brighter than the stock ones obviously. Have had no issues with them so far but did have to buy wiring to convert from stock to the H4 halogens. I picked them up on 4wd.com and they are the rampage h4 halogen conversions for the Jeep CJ7. They are actually on sale now for around $65 but I think I paid closer to $100 for them....well, actually they were a Christmas present. Thanks for the comment.

[@freightpimp]

@@JDOffline You're totally welcome! Great restoration you've got there! I appreciate you getting back to me about those lights...they will probably end up in mine as well! Thanks again JD

[@JDOffline]

Jamie Burns you will like them!!

[@freightpimp]

@@JDOffline You should cover them on your channel.

[@user-um9it3fj3q]

What shackles did you use ?? Thanks

[@JDOffline]

Hey I believe they were the rugged ridge heavy duty shackles from Morris 4x4. Thanks.

[@jimhoran5445]

Skyjacker is the way to go!

[@JDOffline]

Thanks Jim, I'm probably going with the BDS lift but Skyjacker is good as well.