How To Install a Full Suspension Lift Kit

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@davemurray8421]

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

[@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

[@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!

[@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!

[@batsoffroad]

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!

[@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

[@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!

[@redbarry2540]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@Brother_Lander]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@nickdoeslife9531]

Ozark Overland Adventures had that same issue with the Track Bar. He ended up replacing it with one that has a bow in the middle it give the spare tire more room. You can see it in his video where he goes through showcasing all the Modifications he’s made to his Gladiator and tallying up the cost of everything.

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Yep! That was actually my design and recommendation to Clayton shortly after installing the lift and they started making the bent rears.

[@nickdoeslife9531]

Thats really cool . Its good that they listen to feedback like that.

[@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!

[@prh1968]

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

[@krashnpa]

Looks good with the 3.5 lift! I like it!

[@joshmorton8697]

That Jt is looking beastly!!!!

[@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

[@danarteritano1340]

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

[@Scott_69HemiDart]

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

[@ВладДом]

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

[@danhambrick6331]

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

[@user-jt6ph2fs7w]

@He gave them to me “

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@gremlin3362]

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

[@Do4now]

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

[@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.

[@smorris2993]

Have you ever considered airing down the spare and using a ratchet strap around it right along the line of the track bar? Should work as long as they’re aired down enough- not a big deal since you have an arb.

[@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...

[@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

[@joseramos-pm9wm]

Morning, just want to say thanks for all the videos you guys post. Are you still running the Clayton set up and what shocks do you have now ?

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Still running it! I’m using the falcon adjustable shocks now

[@gogerwi]

Now that you have lived with this lift Ben, would you do anything different?

[@JKGearandGadgets]

I would install the extended brake lines from Clayton lol. They didn’t offer them at the time. I switched to falcon shocks as well. I prefer stiffer/firm shocks, plus they are adjustable which is nice. The Fox shocks pair really well with the Clayton lift, however it was a little too soft for my liking. The Clayton lift is holding up really well, and I even have a heavy bed cover, rack, and Rooftop tent on the back end and it handles it well. The giro joint control arms are great, flex really nice Offroad and it’s nice not to worry about greasing them haha. Overall I’m super happy with this lift, I should probably make an update video!

[@brucemartin835]

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

[@BunnyTJ]

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

[@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.

[@dc5631]

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

[@invictuscenturion8468]

Doing my kit today. Thanks for the video

[@Thexkidd]

That tailgate is coming in handy

[@ducks12345678901]

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

[@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

[@josepech1111]

Easy Peezy wow, thank you for sharing

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Thanks for watching

[@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!

[@karthikkailash535]

I thought this much lift required extending brake lines. Was that not required or did you already have that done?

[@trail_tracker]

Love your channel. Very helpful tips. Quick question for a novice here: How do you determine right torque specs with impact wrenches and driver's? For example, lug nuts need to be torqued to 130ft-lbs so I can do it with manual wrench but I see you use impact wrenches for all your upgrades including this lift.

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Impact to assemble everything, then follow up with torque wrench.

[@jerrytaylor2743]

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

[@rossanogramajo1332]

Thanks for the video Ben, New to the jeep world and going to buy a Rubicon Gladiator in the next few months so trying to plan what mods I'm going to do. If I go with the 37`s do I need to rehear? Going to use 80% street and 20% off road, nothing crazy just trials and low rocks. Thanks for your videos!

[@JKGearandGadgets]

I talked a little bit about the 37s in the install video, but I plan on making a video again soon. They work, don’t exactly need a regear, however I would plan for a regear within a year or so.

[@skdevilchild]

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

[@garonalabandian4033]

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

[@JoseAsellas]

Loving the gladiator ben nice work as always very good setup

[@Troothless]

I’m tackling this install soon with the 2.5” overland +. One question i have is, how do the new length of the lower control arms fit if you’re keeping the old ones on when the truck is on its own weight? Don’t you want to remove the control arms while it’s jacked up so you’re able to adjust the axle? Sorry this question is hard to word lol. But your new length seem to fit perfect after you remove the old control arms, almost as if they’re at the same length. Unless the axle shifts once you remove the old control arms (while it’s on its own weight)

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Do one arm at a time, you can roll the axle forward/back to align the bolt holes

[@rajncajun]

Thanks for the video. I am sold... now a basic question? Which Milwaukee cordless are you using to handle all the torque?

[@JKGearandGadgets]

I’m using the harbor freight earthquake! Works great

[@barebonesdiving77]

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

[@Jaugie2200]

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

[@adamaldinger6960]

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

[@RedDawnAviation]

Weird how things change. In my teens and early 20s the common tire was a 36” and then came 38” followed by 40s (not common) and 44s. Is the current 35 and 37 trend due to metric conversions? My 36” Gumbo Monster Mudders were incredible self cleaning mud tires. Yes the rubber was soft and you got about 12 to 15k out of them but took my truck damn near straight up :)

[@teamsix7185]

Don't forget changing that stock rear drive shaft (at least the rear)..... it will fail shortly. Then you will need to align the pinion properly if you use a CV type drive shaft, using adjustable control arms. Otherwise you will feel it.... or eventually wear out your transfer case seal etc.. Then you will need to either cut and re-weld your rear spring mounts or use a 10 degree wedge to get your springs back to almost straight.

[@Donnietill]

Nice lift! I need for my Gladiator!

[@jeremynichols1326]

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

[@chrisb6865]

Did you wind up getting a new driveshaft with this lift? Do you know how much additional height you netted?

[@rocko8153]

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

[@saltass1]

This has probably been answered before, so sorry. I currently have a 2in level on my gladiator. If I do a 3.5 lift all the way around, am I just getting an additional 1.5in up front and regaining the factory rake in the suspension?

[@JTRSpartacus]

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

[@JLLIFEOFFROAD]

How you liking those shocks? I had the Fox shocks with my molar lift.... so stiff,,,, I couldn't stand em

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Dude i think they are soft as crap lol

[@mikehoffman3690]

Lift looks great.

[@autoblog3922]

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

[@accordnc]

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

[@jacobroloff8930]

Is there any reason why you didn’t go with a dual or triple rate front spring? And that was some great info on control arm adjustments.

[@nathanwoodard7661]

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

[@thatmand4542]

i realy want to buy that lift kit for my dad but my heart just wants the rock krawler pro x kit with the triangulated rear,idk im just stuck between that and the clayton kit,my 15 year old self cant decide XD

[@cbrobinson10]

So there's no issue jacking up on the pumpkin? I had previously heard people say not to do it. Getting ready to install mine this week

[@JKGearandGadgets]

On older trucks, the diff cover would have a lip that could bend. On these, jack from the diff, drag it over rocks, you’ll be good!

[@cbrobinson10]

@@JKGearandGadgets Thanks man!! Appreciate the reply and the content!!

[@nickmortenson8106]

So how tall is your gladiator with 37's and the lift? Just curious because im looking at one and want it to fit in the garage door

[@markjohnson7712]

I would very much like to find that out as well. I can only go 6” including 37’s. If that lift ends up being 4.5” Im screwed.

[@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

[@erikng1003]

U make it look so easy

[@henrystearns8887]

Great video Ben. Thanks for the training

[@bibbedvermin8213]

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

[@lloydrage]

Crazy you just got the lift and already swapped it out. Hopefully you sell your old lift

[@reesegoetz134]

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

[@gvsskier5011]

Why didn’t you choose the MOPAR 2” or 3” lift? Isn’t warranty an issue with jobber parts?

[@jamesmerkel9442]

I think that rear control arm mount pnt should b on tire side of factory mount pnt so under max travel load not stressed & slightly flared rear under normal no wt no load.

[@johnthibodeaux5189]

well you kinda answered my fox shocks question i posed in the last video. LOL. How much does that lift cost?

[@mightyd-max3717]

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

[@clifblake]

I have asked you a few questions in the last few days. Thank you for your responses! Maybe you can helpmeet again? I'm going round and round with a local 4X4 shop. About the drop brackets, for the upper and lower control arms. The shop removed them saying aftermarket control arms are too long to work with the drop brackets. They set my upper control arms to 19.75 , and 24" on the lowers. If Im measuring correctly, that is shorter than the damn oem control arms on my Gladiator Overland. Any advice, or thoughts ? Thank you!

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Take a look at inside the coil spring, see if the bump stop is centered over the pad. That will tell if the axle is roughly in the right spot, also do you have alignment or caster specs from how they set the arms? The arms should have enough adjustability to use the drop brackets as well, but different companies make them at different “minimum” lengths. So it could be possible they are too long to use, but most adjustable control arms are able to go as short if not shorter than oem. I’m currently out of town, otherwise I’d go grab measurements on my arms with the drop brackets so you have a reference.

[@clifblake]

@@JKGearandGadgets Thank you! The arms I have actually adjust shorter than the oem arms. That's all the info I need to get on track. Thank you very much !

[@clifblake]

@@JKGearandGadgets it is not lighted up. Thank you for your videos. Im taking this to the shop Monday. Show them how off they are. Than do int myself.

[@trail_tracker]

Did you need to drill into the frame for putting the bottom bump stop or did you drill into the bump stop itself? If it is later, can you do prior to putting it inside the spring because the space to do it looks right.

[@jesusgutierrez255]

Hello from Kansas City

[@derekjohnstone2006]

I am planning installing this lift in my 2020 jeep gladiator this spring and the updated version of this kit on the Clayton website comes with rear extended brake lines. In your video you did not install any extended brake lines so can I get away with not installing them? Never had luck with bleeding brakes on my own.

[@JKGearandGadgets]

As long as you leave the bracket bolt off.

[@kevinhagen3231]

What was the travel on the Falcons? I take it the Fox has more travel and that’s why the change? Keep us posted on the ride difference.

[@JKGearandGadgets]

The travel was around 1” longer than factory on the falcons. Teraflex just released the 3.3s for the JT so I might try those out soon. Sadly, the falcons already sold, I posted them up on a JT Facebook page and they went fast

[@FROSTBITEOFFROAD]

Thanks for the video man! Doing my next lift in a week or so, I like the one control arm at a time trick! What caster angle did you go with?

[@JKGearandGadgets]

6* 🤘. As long as you have the factory driveshaft your good since it’s a Cv style

[@FROSTBITEOFFROAD]

JK Gear and Gadgets thanks man I was thinking 6-7^ would be good. I went with the Metalcloak Game Changer, so I did a Adam’s front shaft already.