Ever feel like your Jeep TJ just can’t keep up when the trail gets rough? You know that feeling – when your suspension bottoms out too easily, or you wish you had a bit more flex to conquer those tricky obstacles. It’s a common frustration for many TJ owners who love to push their rigs beyond the pavement.
Upgrading your suspension can make a world of difference, and a long arm kit is often the holy grail for serious off-roading. But let’s be honest, sifting through all the different TJ long arm upgrade kits out there can be confusing. You want the best for your Jeep, but the jargon and the sheer number of choices can leave you scratching your head. What’s truly important? What will actually give you that much-needed performance boost?
Don’t worry, we’re here to cut through the noise! In this post, we’ll break down exactly what makes a TJ long arm upgrade kit worth your hard-earned money. We’ll guide you through the key features to look for, explain how different kits can benefit your ride, and help you understand which option is the perfect fit for your off-road adventures. Get ready to transform your TJ’s capability and tackle those trails with newfound confidence!
Top Tj Long Arm Upgrade Kit Recommendations
- Increase Ground Clearance for on and off-road obstacles
- Lower control arms feature high clearance design
- Extreme travel long arms keep optimum alignment and give optimum articulation.
- X-Flex control arm features: , Clevite brand OEM style rubber bushings.
- Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.
- Extreme travel long arms keep optimum alignment and give optimum articulation.
- Adjustable Lower control arms feature high clearance design and Clevite brand OEM style rubber bushings
- Flex joints feature a massive 2.5" diameter body and 1.25" thread. Fully greasable.
- Heavy Duty 0.25" thick crossmember. Upper joints pivot up to 20 degrees. Lower joints pivot up to 35 degrees.
- Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.
- THE DRIVABILITY YOU ALWAYS HOPED FOR: What do you mean "there is no turning back?"; shouldn't your suspension take you wherever you want to go? Unhappy with "lifetime replacement" for bushings that are now too stiff, squeak, or ride harsh? Turn back and get the drivability you had always hoped for on and off-road, increase wheel travel, and get all of this without the worry of the documented failure of the Rubicon Express bushings.
- UNLEASH YOUR RIDE’S FULL CAPABILITIES: MetalCloak's Patented Lock-N-Load Radius Long Arm eliminates bushing bind and unleashes the full capabilities of a radius system without losing the safety of 4 contact points on the axle. Twist the arm to “lock” position for even better street performance.
- ELIMINATE SQUEAKS AND CLUNKS: The revolutionary, DuPont Kevlar fiber enhanced Duroflex Joint equipped control arms eliminate squeaks and clunks and have the best NVH properties available. Control arms are built strong from 2” x .25 wall DOM with clearance bends in the rear to minimize dragging.
- FIX PROBLEMS PERMANENTLY: Designed to permanently fix the problems found with the RE Radius arm suspension; this solution will also provide more articulation, better ride quality on and off-road, a quiet experience, and outlasts the RE product with the durability you had originally hoped for.
- PROVEN SAFE: MetalCloak “components” have been proven safe with the FMVSS certificate of safety configured with 37inch tires, full body armor and suspension lift.
- Extreme travel long arms keep optimum alignment and give optimum articulation.
- Adjustable Lower control arms feature high clearance design and Clevite brand OEM style rubber bushings.
- Flex joints feature a massive 2.5" diameter body and 1.25" thread. Fully greasable.
- Heavy Duty 0.25" thick crossmember. Upper joints pivot up to 20 degrees. Lower joints pivot up to 35 degrees.
- Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.
- 【Fitment】 for Jeep Wrangler TJ 1997-2006, for Jeep Cherokee XJ 1986-2001, for Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ 1993-1998
- 【 Adjustable Design】Adjustable control arms are compatible with Jeeps from stock height to 8" suspension lifts. Correct suspension geometry for lifted Jeeps, enhance car handling and off-road performance, reduce bump steer, and prevent premature tire wear
- 【Durable Material】Control arms are made of strong steel with powder coat to prevent rust and corrosion, ideal for off-road mudding. Premium poly bushings are firm and strong to withstand harsh off-road conditions, resist oil and heat, improve performance with a longer service life
- 【 Package Includes】 2 x front upper control arms (360-455 mm), 2 x front lower control arms (385-470 mm) with spare sleeves
- 【24/7 Customer Service】maXpeedingrods offers lifetime technical support and 1-year limited warranty for quality-related issues since the date of purchase. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions
- Complete 20‑Piece Suspension Overhaul: Restores handling, stability, and ride comfort with a full set of front and rear control arms, stabilizer links, bushings, and ball joints designed to refresh the entire suspension system.
- Made‑in‑USA Bushings for Superior Durability: High‑quality American‑made bushings deliver improved longevity, better resistance to heat and wear, and more consistent performance compared to generic imports.
- Durable Construction for Off‑Road Use: Built with heavy‑duty materials engineered to withstand harsh terrain, making it ideal for lifted, modified, or regularly off‑roaded Jeep Wrangler TJ models.
- Precise Fit for 1997–2006 Wrangler TJ AWD: Designed specifically for the TJ platform to ensure proper alignment, easy installation, and reliable long‑term performance without modification.
- Enhanced Steering Control & Stability: Upgraded stabilizer links and bushing kits reduce body roll, improve cornering, and deliver a more confident steering feel on and off the road.
- Fully greaseable.
- Upper joints pivot up to 20 degrees.
- Lower joints pivot up to 35 degrees.
- Allows for greater articulation off-road.
- Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.
- FITMENT: for Jeep Wrangler TJ 1997-2006
- 4 PC Rear Arms: This bundle includes 2 x rear upper control arms (320-420 mm), 2 x rear lower control arms (385-470 mm)
- ADJUSTABLE DESIGN: Adjustable control arms are compatible with Jeeps from stock height to 4" suspension lifts. Correct suspension geometry for lifted Jeeps, enhance car handling and off-road performance, reduce bump steer, and prevent premature tire wear
- STRONG MATERIAL: Control arms are made of strong steel with powder coat to prevent rust and corrosion, ideal for off-road mudding
- 24/7 CUSTOMER SERVICE: maXpeedingrods offers lifetime technical support and 1-year limited warranty for quality-related issues since the date of purchase. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions
The TJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit: A Comprehensive Buying Guide
Are you looking to give your Jeep Wrangler a serious boost in performance and capability? A TJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit might be just what you need. This kit can help your Jeep tackle tougher trails and ride smoother on and off-road. Let’s dive into what makes a good kit.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a TJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit, keep an eye out for these important features:
- Adjustable Control Arms: These are super important. They let you fine-tune your Jeep’s alignment after lifting it. This means a better ride and less tire wear.
- High-Quality Bushings: Bushings are like little shock absorbers for your suspension. Good ones are made from strong rubber or polyurethane. They help absorb bumps and last a long time.
- Durable Brackets: The brackets hold the control arms to your Jeep’s frame. They need to be made of thick, strong steel to handle the stress of off-roading.
- Proper Geometry: The kit should be designed to correct your Jeep’s suspension geometry. This prevents common problems like “death wobble” and improves handling.
- Complete Hardware: A good kit comes with all the nuts, bolts, and washers you need for installation. This saves you a trip to the hardware store.
Important Materials
The materials used in a TJ Long Arm Kit directly affect its strength and lifespan.
- Steel: Most high-quality kits use strong steel for the control arms and brackets. Look for DOM (Drawn Over Mandrel) tubing. This is a very strong type of steel. It resists bending and breaking.
- Polyurethane or Rubber: These materials are used for the bushings. Polyurethane is often preferred because it’s very durable. It can withstand tough conditions. Good rubber bushings also work well. They offer a comfortable ride.
- Powder Coating: Many kits have a powder-coated finish. This protects the metal from rust and gives it a nice look.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things can make a TJ Long Arm Kit better or worse.
- Improved Quality:
- Reputable Brands: Buying from well-known brands usually means you’re getting a quality product. These companies have a good track record.
- Precision Engineering: Kits that are carefully designed and manufactured will fit better. They will also perform better.
- Customer Reviews: Reading what other Jeep owners say about a kit can tell you a lot. Look for kits with many positive reviews.
- Reduced Quality:
- Thin Metal: If the steel in the arms or brackets is thin, it can bend or break easily. This is a big safety concern.
- Cheap Bushings: Low-quality bushings will wear out quickly. They can also lead to a rougher ride.
- Poor Fitment: If a kit doesn’t fit your Jeep properly, installation will be difficult. It can also cause suspension problems.
User Experience and Use Cases
A TJ Long Arm Kit is designed to improve your Jeep’s experience in several ways.
- Off-Roading: This is where a long arm kit shines. It allows for more suspension travel. This means your tires stay on the ground more often. You can climb over obstacles more easily. The ride is also much smoother on rough terrain.
- On-Road Driving: Surprisingly, a well-designed long arm kit can also improve your daily driving. The corrected suspension geometry reduces vibrations. This leads to a more comfortable and stable ride.
- Towing: If you tow a trailer with your Jeep, a long arm kit can help. It can improve stability and reduce sway.
- Lift Height: Long arm kits are usually used with lifts of 4 inches or more. They allow you to achieve higher lifts without the negative effects of short arm suspensions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a TJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit?
A: A TJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit is a set of parts that replaces your Jeep Wrangler’s stock short control arms with longer ones. This improves suspension performance, especially when lifting your Jeep.
Q: Why do I need a long arm kit?
A: You might need a long arm kit if you plan to lift your Jeep 4 inches or more. It helps correct suspension angles. This makes your Jeep ride better and handle safer.
Q: Will a long arm kit make my Jeep ride smoother?
A: Yes, a well-designed long arm kit can make your Jeep ride smoother. It allows for better suspension movement and corrects geometry issues.
Q: Can I install a TJ Long Arm Kit myself?
A: Installation can be challenging. It often requires special tools and mechanical knowledge. Many people choose to have a professional install it.
Q: What is the difference between short arms and long arms?
A: Short arms are the stock arms on most Jeeps. Long arms are much longer. They are designed to work with lifted suspensions to improve angles and travel.
Q: How much lift do I need before considering a long arm kit?
A: It’s generally recommended to consider a long arm kit when you lift your Jeep 4 inches or more. Some kits can work with slightly lower lifts.
Q: Will a long arm kit affect my Jeep’s alignment?
A: Yes, lifting your Jeep will affect alignment. Adjustable control arms in a long arm kit help you get the alignment back to spec.
Q: What are the most common brands for TJ Long Arm Kits?
A: Popular brands include Rubicon Express, Rock Krawler, and JCR Offroad. These brands are known for quality.
Q: How much does a TJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit typically cost?
A: The cost can vary widely, but expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2,000 or more, depending on the brand and features.
Q: Do I need other parts to install a long arm kit?
A: You might need other parts like a new driveshaft, sway bar disconnects, or shocks. Always check the kit’s description for compatibility.