Jeep Cherokee XJ Budget Build Part 1 - RC Builds - Episode 1

In the introductory episode of RC Builds, Rough Country attempts to make an off-road monster on a minimal budget. Do you think we have what it takes to purchase a stock Jeep and give it everything it needs to be a supreme rock-crawling beast all for under $5,000? Tune in and find out on RC Builds.
Music: Static Revival
www.staticrevival.com
4.5-inch X-series Suspension Lift for 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ:
www.roughcountry.com/jeep-susp...
Wheels:
www.roughcountry.com/wheels/st...
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And check out our web site at roughcountry.com

[@scottyd8]

I like the fact , Rough Country lift kit, comes with rear leaf springs and not just a plastic block spacer. Also very realistic. Cutting Rusty bolts, reusing old Hardware and no torque wrench. Backyard Style.

[@kevslogan]

Thanks for making this video! Just finished installing the 4.5 RC kit on my 2000 XJ Sport (even the same color). Lessons learned: 1. Bawcum's a lot better at this stuff than me. 2. A real-deal professional lift is a lot better than jacks and stands. 3. Flag head bolts are evil. 4. A schmuck like me can pull it off if he's stubborn enough, has a long enough breaker bar, and his neighbors will tolerate high volume foul language.

[@Freedom-250]

This just gave me even more hope to my XJ dream, awesome video guys, my dad and I used to have an XJ but sold it for a first Gen Cummings

[@billsanchez2665]

First just want to thank Rough Country for offering a lift kit that not only is superrior but kills the price of other kits that dosent even offer the extent of the 4.5 x lift R Country sells.It is verry easy to install ,all the hard ware that you need is in the kit yes you have to reuse some of the original hard ware no problem there.This kit gets you off the ground and out in the woods having a great time.I enjoyed the lift so much as I opted to buy there upgrade to the long arm kit now we are talking.This kit is BEAFY .Will and do endorse this and all rc products and yes I needed the rc slip yolk eleminator kit with rc drive line,even with the 2 inch transfer case drop I still had drive line issues,besides who wants the transfer case hanging down 2 inches. I give Rough Country A big thumbs up this company rocks!!!!

[@dentondunn4346]

Nice video, buying a rust free 94 xj with 137,000 miles tomorrow. Can't wait

[@adamslosar2177]

Just did this lift on my garage floor, with no power tools. This is my 3rd RC lifted XJ. The lift is great quality. People who have complained, don’t follow the recommended maintenance. Keep them greased properly. 2 XJs with 6.5 long arm RC lifts., and one with this one. Yes, I do use them on rocks- very happy with performance and quality for the cost. Still running all 3 XJs.

[@kaktasjak]

Awesome build! Xj's for the WIN!

[@Chunk404]

Imagine being able to buy a decent XJ for $2,500 in 2021. 🥲

[@victorperez-ey8oe]

theyre all clapped out

[@keithlucas6260]

@@victorperez-ey8oe you must live in the wrong state and in a backwoods ghetto neighborhood.

[@victorperez-ey8oe]

@@keithlucas6260 i live in florida. finding a non abused xj for 2500 is like finding a unicorn

[@marcussilva2141]

There’s some all over my area down here in south Texas

[@keithlucas6260]

@@marcussilva2141 Yep...found one in Conroe that just needed a fuel pump for $600

[@lonewolfvlogix6335]

Nice job guys. U guys literally keep it simple and show every step. Keep making vids like this . Love from Nepal 🇳🇵🇳🇵🇳🇵

[@tomgruel1929]

I've been working on my lift (4.5 in on 00 XJ) for about 6 weeks (I know, but rain, snow and work have caused delays). Good lift kit, I would suggest replacing worn components. I will have replaced all the tie rods ends, as well as repaired any rust on the frame. I also replaced the front sway bar bushings as well as front spring tower grommets. Mine were worn and this is a good time to replace. Also, order new bolts that hold the springs to the frame. Otherwise, I've been impressed with the kit. I've got a new set of 33 x 12.5 tires and rims. I also have a set of bush wacker fender flares. The new springs with the 4.5 in lift are massive compared to the original. If your jeep sags after installing these babies, you must be hauling cement on the side.

[@Enrique_Fuego]

Thanks for doing something on the XJ! Got the same kit (except I had to go with the 3-1/2" Leaf Pack and 1" Block combo on the back due to too great of an arch on the 4-1/2" leafs). However the issue with the 4-1/2" leafs not fitting is very rare but does happen. RC sent me the 3-1/2"s and told me to keep the 4-1/2" Leafs! The kit has been great and have not had one issue. RC Service is unparalleled!!!

[@jerryfreed3742]

Between you guys and bleepinjeep's videos I'll get my 2 xjs on the trails in no time.

[@RoughCountryTV]

Awesome!

[@hillbillyxjstyle161]

thank you for taking the time ,i am redoing a 1999 xj from ground up i will be looking into a 4.5 lift again thank you

[@chedyer6440]

I just got a 99 myself would be interesred in what your plans are

[@flaviovinholi]

20:06 made my night, couldn't stop laughing on those guys bouncing inside

[@eliseosanchez1781]

That Jeep looks like a beast man great job and great video

[@user-ss6zt2mo1l]

You make it look Soooo easy.

[@KLAYCO47]

nice! Ive got the same jeep, same RC 4.5 lift, same fender flares, same size wheels and tires and it does very well off road.

[@alfonsogarcia97]

Just bought my xj 2 days ago for 1100 came with this rc kit

[@seantylerwray]

i like how everything was just ran in with a impact.i didn't see one thing get torqued with a torque wrench.anti seize would have been nice to see used on the bolts too,seeing how the original bolts didnt want to come out easy at all.

[@brooks302]

That is a great idea, and that is what I did with my XJ!!

[@kingofmfinghearts8625]

sean wray Exactly....

[@mattwalsh597]

That’s rough country for ya!

[@mcpuddin6106]

No big deal they’ll be replacing the parts before they rust

[@TheBooze13]

Let’s be real no real mechanic uses a torque wrench!

[@freeslave8824]

Thanks for a great video guys. Nice job!

[@juliorock11]

Hello friends, my name is Julio from Brazil, congratulations for the great work, this car was very good

[@jbossnack]

Awesome thanks guys!

[@RoughCountryTV]

Thank you.

[@vasiliyrobu351]

great build!

[@allenlopezbaltodano3958]

Love XJ

[@MoisesJha]

Well done. That looks like a quality product. I'm planning to do the same amount of lift on my 97 zj, I will definitely consider a Rough Country lift kit.

[@alexanderbarrera9140]

MoisesJha Rastafari zjs rock!!! Coolest jeep in my opinion. Want to make one stick shift one day.

[@robertwest4299]

I want to do this exact build but painted black and white zebra striped. Love the safari look of the XJ. Have since I was a kid.

[@christhorn3199]

Like Ted nugents bronco

[@davidbeal4]

Beautiful jeep

[@alextores6810]

that is an awesome kit I want to do that with my jeep.

[@saulvillanueva7329]

Nice video guys thank you

[@lorddacb]

Love it. Amazing XJ.

[@bryancordero4522]

All right buddy, thanks. Now I know.

[@johnnyvain544]

ive been a painter for 20+ years. I can make a car look amazing. but oil changes, brakes rotors is about as far as my mechanical confidence goes haha. I FINALLY got a jeep because I want to do the off road thing. 99' xj with the 5" lift and tires and stuff...so its a great starter. Im HOPING this jeep will be my toy to try to learn mechanical stuff and also off roading. so im gonna prob copy this 2 part video. right after I put a custom paintjob on it.

[@richfisherman2664]

Nice video. We are going to lift my sons 93 xj. Thanks for the video

[@mike55976]

Wow you just gave me a great idea for my 95, shoot was already set on lift tires wheels. But 5k single income of 4 try to make it work. Thanks my wife thanks you as well

[@trangia12]

Thank you for supporting MCQBushcraft. Now I am looking for products for my 2016 Toyota 4Runner Premium Trail.

[@xthexadvantagex]

Never thought I would miss 2013 so much

[@hascg1]

Excelente trabajo saludos desde paraguay

[@Formerlywarmer]

Very nice. Just bought a 1990 2 door XJ

[@dannypstl423]

I see a lot of videos out there that really trash Rough Country. I've got about 20,000 miles on a Rough Country lift. I did have some issues after install but they had decent support and helped me out and I've had no issues after that with their products. I think if you're looking to do suspension on a budget it's worth looking into.

[@jorgemorales8173]

Nice ,good job duds !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@dolarmangr]

Nice 👍 and good job you guys have done ✅

[@RoughCountryTV]

Thank you 👍

[@cadenceandfamily2159]

Still waiting for my rough country stearing stabalizer. Can't wait to see how well the steering stabalizer I ordered from amazon works

[@olaf1014]

Bought the kit, broke a tie rod immediately, rear sags after less than a year. Still competes with the high dollar rigs. Best bang for your buck in my opinion.

[@RoughCountryTV]

Diesel_paid! Glad you like it! Your Tie-Rod is covered under our Lifetime Warranty. If you ever have any issues don't hesitate to contacts us at roughcountry.com!

[@thebugman2007]

Love my RC lift on my YJ.

[@MikeOrazzi]

This may be what my 01 XJ needs.

[@RoughCountryTV]

The steel wheels were purchased from the Rough Country website.

[@MrBrett706]

does anybody with an xj really have a 5 thousand dollar budget though?

[@Bronkey469]

Does anyone REALLY spend $2500 on an xj?

[@Freedom-250]

Here in Canada "alright" XJ's are $2500, our dollar sucks

[@markp.7109]

if you live somewhere with snow, rust-freeish XJs are $2,000 minimum.

[@roberthoward493]

I pick them up in AZ all day for $1000

[@michaeluriarte5647]

I bought a 98 xj sport 4x4 for 2 grand. it's flawless and only had 101k on the odometer. I lucked out. and old army vet owned it since new and it looks showroom condition.

[@ianbob3050]

I have a 3" Rough country lift with leaf springs kit on my XJ and like it.I also bought the adjustable top control arms.That being said anything over a 3" lift should need a SYE and new CV rear driveshaft to eliminate vibration.I see you havent done that here.I can imagine it vibrates and the rear driveline is not on the slip joint by very much.

[@mike81399]

01 163k miles have the RC 3 inch suspension lift kit, added rousch steering damper tie rods,wheel bearings, roof rack, water pump, thermostat, brake system, 31x10.50R15 tires/rims. Everything works👍

[@Runitlikeshebroke]

Still here Still sick Still appreciating in value

[@jasonkerouac4048]

I'm actually running an '00 XJ myself at the moment -- nice to find a video for close comparisons. Suspension is still stock, but I just installed K&N intake, BBK high-flow throttle body and a cat-back Flowmaster system. Next on the list is a 3-3.5" lift and tires -- most likely an SYE / driveshaft to go with it. I can guarantee I'm over $5,000 at that point.I guess that's my only note. I wouldn't necessarily consider a 4-4.5" kit a budget build, especially with Mick Thompson tires. Other then that, very nice ride, and you guys have given me a few ideas. On to video two. Thanks RC!

[@TheEigerclimber]

cool vid! I would forget the flares and installed Detroit locker in the rear. thanks!!!

[@TheTacticalHouse]

Instead of spending money on flares... maybe replace the shackles and throw some decent steering on.

[@rite2beararms]

Nah, just add that stuff too. The flares are nice for larger wheel well and keeping the rig clean. I have stupid offset on mine and the truck is never clean for more than 10 miles.

[@rigobertomedina1228]

Exelente trabajo muy profesional

[@motor-head]

Did you really say "supreme rock-crawling beast" - pretty funny. I think your gonna need to deal with the stock open differentials and your 3.07 gear ratio before you go "crawling" over anything. Anyway just wanted to give you a hard time over the rock crawling beast thing and let everyone know that RC has great customer service. Had a shock issue on the kit for my TJ and RC really stood behind their stuff and got me taken care of. If you have an issue all you have to do is call them up and they will take care of you.

[@RoughCountryTV]

Motor Head Thank you for the compliment and we appreciate your loyalty.

[@WillysOverland]

+Rough Country Stock open diff? Most newer 98+ with 8.25 had a limited slip.

[@motor-head]

+Ohsplat Even if this Cherokee has the Dana Spicer limited slip carrier in the rear axle it still cannot be called "rock crawling beast" at least not with a straight face. It should more accurately be described as an "overland" or "trail" type setup. The 3:07 gear ratio is just a killer - way, way, way too tall a gear for any serious "crawling". If you wanted to move this jeep more into the rock crawler type of setup then 4:56 gears and lockers in both axles would be required. There is a reason this is called a "budget build". It gets it lifted and gets the tires to fit under it................it DOES NOT transform it into a "rock crawling beast".

[@WillysOverland]

I never said the name fit. I was correcting you on assuming it had to be open carrier

[@motor-head]

+Ohsplat I stand corrected. Also, I like the factory limited slip - I have it on my Wrangler. It's not really well suited to "crawling" but I love the way it works in the mud, snow, cinders --- anywhere both rear tires are staying on the ground it's awesome. Also inexpensive and relatively easy to rebuild.

[@choking0smurf]

I picked up my xj for $500. No rust. So i got you guys bet from the start haha

[@JacobRobinson]

Mileage?

[@diville6425]

+Jacob Robinson 500k looool

[@Genevasuggestions1]

I also bought my xj for 500 bucks. From a guy who was dying and had no use for it. Had 240k miles when I bought it 2 years ago. It's the "wagoneer" xj package. Majestic yet really rough jeep. I love it so much.

[@Drose7.3]

+joseph cunningham I've got a 99 xj sport for 700 with 202k on it

[@Genevasuggestions1]

+Derick Kozina damn I would have loved to get a deal on another like that. Especially being as new as 99 that's really awesome man.

[@raulvillarreal4390]

Goood jeep xj congratulations

[@simonsaysr1994]

Ive seen the zep45 black can penetrate when pb blaster couldnt. I work on farm equipmemt for a living ,rebuilding grain bin motors and crop driers. Ought to give it a try

[@reza49363]

Nice work 👍❤️💐

[@prestondallas4035]

That's roughly what I have in mine price wise and some of the same equipment. People in my area have 8 to 12 grand in there jeeps starting with $2,500 to $3,000. But I do see your point we XJ owners usually don't have a $5,000 budget altogether at once to start with. Lol! I started with a nineteen ninety-eight $2,500 talked down to $2,300 x j with 160000 MI almost 4 yrs ago. 3 inch lift (have a 6 inch waiting g to be installed instead now tho) 15 x 8 Blackout wheels with 31 inch Mastercraft MXT Mud tires new beefy suspension and steering components including adjustable trackbar and steering box front wheel bearings 4 new shocks. And due to wheels 2 inch wheel spacers. She has 311,000 miles now and still upgrading!

[@mr.greenjavelosa8159]

I really love this video, thank you guys..

[@RoughCountryTV]

+Cwalk All of the parts from this build are still available at www.roughcountry.com

[@hustler539]

Can you guys do a Tundra build? Maybe even a long travel/prerunner build?

[@redmk_yt1694]

bravo excellent.

[@redmk_yt1694]

bonjour le diamètre des pneus svp merci

[@kaptainkoffee5504]

Love the premise, but holy audio levels guys.

[@theviper6602]

What amazes me they didn't put any lock tight or anti seize on any parts of this build. Like really if I was the customer you would redo everything you did !

[@stevehernandez1637]

I would really like this suspension lift and tires and rim set up on my

[@BlessedVet]

96 XJ for $4900. I have a $100 left. Woooohoooo!

[@mackredenbarger]

I LOVEEEEEE how all these bolts came out soooo easily! Lol

[@RoughCountryTV]

Movie magic.

[@colind5092]

Jesus cries every time you use a chrome socket on an impact gun.

[@chadnorris4923]

Hahaha Ikr

[@dylanmccallister6739]

I'm not alone

[@lbayolo1981]

So does the socket

[@codybrady6637]

doesn't everybody? lol

[@408modelshop]

Eh it's a raggidy ass Napa gun it'll be ok

[@TheFuZioN97]

nice vid :D good work

[@weye3763]

I want one..😍😍

[@dannyturner7967]

Sweet

[@kojack635]

Now all I have to do is find a good jeep for $2500!

[@josepttellez5662]

u can

[@mahdey]

+Bob Swagger copart.com man, use the no license required search. Just picked up a two door for 700.

[@kojack635]

dude sweet ill check it out

[@Nothingtoya]

+Bob Swagger depending on where you are, finding a good jeep should be pretty easy. I just picked up a 95 xj for $2600.

[@Wrecklessjlo]

Found mine for 1200 🙄

[@jamesbeam7450]

Looked practically all day for a rough country lift kit for my Jeep Cherokee xj. Wanted 3” but couldn’t find it anywhere.

[@joshnormandin3873]

I really love this kit it has impressive quality for the price

[@freqeist]

its the outtakes that got you the sub..

[@Nothingtoya]

definitely read all the reviews you can on Rough Country. I really wish I would have.

[@Nothingtoya]

They're warranty doesn't exist either. this has to be one of the worst off road companies out there. I have this lift on my 95 XJ, there's not a single good thing I have to say about it and Rough Country should be ashamed.

[@Nothingtoya]

Their**

[@RoughCountryTV]

Sorry to hear you're unhappy with your kit. If you'll give us a call at 1-800-222-7023, we'd be happy to discuss and help resolve the issues you're experiencing.

[@35057]

I was expecting that kit to be around $1100. Nice job keeping it under a grand! Awesome! A lot more attainable and less sticker shock.

[@RoughCountryTV]

Thanks for noticing.

[@Kr8zyK4d]

Bayer-Z28 look around man, there are alot of solid 4.5 inch lifts for under a grand. just be sure to not do a tcase drop like these guys. its rc meaning its all about looking like your jeep can perform and not actually being able to. chrome sockets on impact+tcase drop+stock hardware= rough country. what a joke

[@Vineetkumar-so5ro]

Great

[@artemioreyes9342]

Exelent

[@septor-og6hi]

What amazes me is that people are so fixated on the look they don't think about the engine in these videos

[@kingsnake545]

It's hard to beat the xj's value

[@dentondunn4346]

Whats value on a 94 2 2door with optional pop out rear windows, 137xxx miles, not rusted or beat up.stock

[@mrplow321able]

Grate vid wish I had the money to do a lift and tires on my 1986 gmc short bed that is stock right now

[@Trials-and-Tribulations]

Awesome I found one a 1999 xj for $800 near mint.

[@I_AM_ALL_THAT_WAS]

Hey guys. I’m building an xj sport 1995. I just would really appreciate what the offset measurements were on the 15x8 rims chosen for the Jeep in the video. Thank you 🙏

[@biobigdaddy1]

Makes me want another jeep Cherokee lol

[@lawrencesteger5574]

My engine blue up !!

[@brandongates1095]

This looks just like my Jeep but mines green with the tan trim on the bottom. I have a 4.5 inch lift with 33s

[@jargonstarcraft9157]

I am curious why you guys did not mention a SYE and new CV Drive Shaft to go with this lift. Don't you highly recommend this on your website, even this the TC drop kit? I know this is a budge build, but you could have skipped the fenders and gone with the SYE/Drive Shaft.

[@rastavioaguilera]

I totally agree and i and it would be a great ALMOST complete build. At least one that would be more reliable. All left would be to regear and lock.

[@Harvester5000]

Its a 2000 xj so it probably had a NP242 there is no slip yoke eliminator for that transfer case. They would have to do a hack and tap.

[@mwinburn200]

Should have budgeted in new gears for the axles. 33" tires are a lot of strain on those little axles at stock gearing.. Anyway, I love my XJ and nice to see you guys build one!

[@julianchavez2790]

Rough country suspension makes the country rougher.

[@larretta88]

I have a 99 xj 4.0 5 speed new trans. a/c and all.4x4 I'd sell for the right price. xjs are super nice machines :)

[@Quran_kareem128]

good 👍

[@stewartrosendaulii9638]

So we put tge 3in kit on ky sons 2001. The angle ended up to much on shafts and having to add transfer drop kit. So do the studs in the one half of the crossmamber turn out?

[@precioso507]

5 k but only in parts ... + labor nice job !!!!!!

[@john2737]

Great video. Do you run into any vibration issues with late '00-01 XJs with the low pinion front axle?

[@AlandosAnjos83]

Awesome! Do you guys send kits to Brazil?

[@MrHotshot417]

I want a lift like that for my 99 xj!

[@bigfarru2]

11:46 Can you still use the stock Sway Bar ? Or it is just useless to put it back on?

[@rialbufames4023]

I just bought one for 1000$ but not 4x4, I'm gonna try make it look as clean as possible