Alignment after lift kit

[LBJ]

Just installed my RE 3.5 which is more like 4.5 on my 87 XJ. When I get the front end aligned do I have it set to stock specs? I'm also replacing ball joints, do I need offset ones? Caster seems to be way off should I get adjustable upper control arms or can I put enough shims on the lower control arms to correct it? Sorry for all the questions but I want to do it right the first time. Thanks.

 

[red87cherokee]

This web page gives you answers to most of your questions, even if you don't actually use the info to do your own alignment.

http://www.go.jeep-xj.info/HowtoAlignment.htm

His web page is really good on all things XJ.

http://www.go.jeep-xj.info/



On the alignment issue, I used GoJeep's info to check my alignment after adding a 1-3/4 inch front spacer (to level my rig). I then took it to the alignment shop, and there expensive/complicated machinery confirmed that GoJeep's info is about 100% correct. The alignment shop returned everything to stock settings, but weren't able to adjust the caster to spec. I haven't made the spacer that GoJeep recommends, but in over 10,000 miles (mostly pavement, but some 4-wheeling) my Cherokee drives as good as when it was at stock height (I have about 4 or 4-1/2 inches of lift).


Another great website (although it is more Wrangler than Cherokee) is:

http://www.stu-offroad.com/index.shtml

but, I don't remember if he has anything on alignment.

 

[LBJ]

Thanks for the info I'll give it a shot and see how it turns out. Thanks.