Lowered Jeep Wrangler Guide

Lowered Jeep Wrangler Guide: Everything You Need to Know

A Jeep Wrangler has a high ground clearance or ride height, which allows it to be driven over various terrains without harming the 4×4 vehicle’s underbody. However, some Jeep Wrangler owners prefer a lowered Jeep Wrangler because they have ceased traversing off-road routes or have a new off-road competent Jeep.

Although Wranglers may naturally be driven on a smooth road or freeway, properly lowering the vehicle can make the ride more comfortable and help you save money on gas.

So, how can you get a lowered Jeep Wrangler capable of handling smooth terrain and highways? There are five options or procedures to explore, all of which entail changes to the Jeep Wrangler’s suspension system. You can also perform most of these on your own if you have the necessary expertise.

Because we all have varied talents and finances, one approach may be appropriate for one person but not for another. Some treatments are also more time-consuming and dangerous than others, so it’s essential to learn about them all before deciding.

In this Lowered Jeep Wrangler Guide, we’ll take a look at the measures you may take to properly lower your Jeep Wrangler, as well as the difficulties that might arise if the processes are performed wrong.

Negative Impacts of Lowering Your Wrangler 

To guarantee that their vehicles work effectively, each automobile manufacturer creates unique specs and features. Modifying them, however, is a personal option, particularly for off-road vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler.

Because you’d be altering your automobile, the results may be favorable or unfavorable, depending on how successfully you completed the operation. The following are some of the issues to be aware of:

Wrong Suspension Alignment

Vehicles acquire about -0.75 degrees of camber for every inch they are lowered. Although negative camber can improve corner grip and tire rollover, it can also increase tire wear.

Your Wrangler’s wheels may begin to follow the curves of the surfaces on which you drive it on a frequent basis, a process known as tramlining. This will make it harder to maintain lane control.

Fortunately, you may easily remedy negative camber issues by altering the ride height, especially if the new ride height isn’t too low. If not, coil-overs with camber plates, fresh camber plates, or an adjustable control arm or camber bolt might be used to correct the alignment.

Worse Center of Gravity (Roll Alert)

The Wrangler’s COG and rear roll center must be adjusted precisely, much like any other 4WD (plus RWD). Any inaccuracy will result in inefficient tire loading under throttle.

It also puts it at danger of wheel hopping, which occurs when the wheel moves more freely inside its well than it should. Let’s face it, Wranglers are already known for being top-heavy and easy to roll; lowering it can worsen this!

The good news is that solutions are available to assist in correcting lowered Wrangler roll center concerns and probable bump steers. RCAS (Roll Center Adjusters), drop knuckles, and Bumpsteer Kit are some of the names for these kits.

Wrong Drivetrain Angle

Regardless of the kind of axles in your existing Jeep, lowering the vehicle too low or improperly can result in binding, wheel hopping, axle wrapping, faster drivetrain wear, vibrations, and higher powertrain vibrations.

How To Lower Your Wrangler 

How To Lower Your Wrangler 

Most mechanics propose five distinct procedures or ways for lowering the ride height of your Jeep Wrangler. They are as follows:

Use a Shorter Spring

The spring in your Jeep Wrangler is located between the frame and the wheels, as it is in most automobiles. It’s part of the suspension system, and it’s in charge of keeping your car’s fixed height while also permitting mobility.

One of the simplest and safest ways to lower your car is to replace the spring with a shorter one. After all, Jeep Wranglers are known for their durability, so you’re definitely going to alter an older model anyhow, which will necessitate part replacements.

You can choose from the following options:

  • Purchase a New Shorter Spring – The significant part is that you can easily acquire a variety of aftermarket springs that are compatible with your Wrangler’s suspension system in a variety of auto-part stores or suppliers. This applies to both online and offline retail shops.
  • Adjust the Spring LengthIf you don’t want to spend money on a new spring or if the old one hasn’t worn out yet, you may shorten it. Depending on the type of spring in your Wrangler, there are a few options.

Leaf Spring

Leaf springs are standard on older models, and you may remove them and bring them to an auto shop for de-arching to decrease the length.

Installing a flip kit that moves the axle from under the spring to the top may also reverse the configuration. You can do it yourself or hire someone who has the necessary equipment and abilities.

After installing a flip kit, an auto technician must additionally install a lowering block. If you want to get your Jeep to the lowest possible height, this is the best solution.

However, you may need to purchase a C-notch, which the technician will install above the back axle of your vehicle. It will assist in ensuring enough space between the axle and the frame. However, specific flip kits, such as the Belltech 6850 Flip Kit, already have a C-notch (view on Amazon).

Belltech 6850 Flip Kit | Amazon
$297.00

Belltech Flip Kits provide dramatic lowering on the rear of your Sport Truck or SUV by relocating the rear axle of your truck from under to on top of the leaf spring.

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We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
12/13/2024 02:20 am GMT

Coil Spring

You may change the spring length by removing the coil spring if your Wrangler has one instead of a leaf spring. After that, you may have the coil springs trimmed and softened by a professional at a reputable coil spring business or auto shop, or you can carefully cut the springs in equal lengths with a cutting wheel, torch, hack-saw, or grinder.

Keep in mind that if your car’s lengths aren’t equal, it won’t be level, resulting in uneven and unsteady rides. Depending on the size your Wrangler demands, you may start by reducing the coil springs in half and then smaller increments.

Although this is a more practical alternative, the coil springs may be weakened or damaged during the DIY cutting procedure. This is especially true if you lack the necessary skills to operate the tools and conduct DIY mechanical chores.

Change the Track Bar and Control Arm

Change the Track Bar and Control Arm

Track bars are used in coil spring suspension systems to restrict the axles of the Wrangler from sliding from side to side. Some models feature non-adjustable track bars, whereas others have adjustable ones.

If your vehicle has adjustable track bars, use a tiny wrench to carefully adjust each to a lower, acceptable height. On the other hand, if you have non-adjustable ones, you should replace them with shorter ones. You must also return your unit’s control arms. Of course, this should be done in conjunction with coil spring replacement or length adjustment.

Buy a Lowering Kit

If you don’t want to deal with changing the coil spring and, subsequently, the track bar, you may buy a Jeep Wrangler Lowering Kit. Numerous manufacturers sell these kits, so finding one is simple. Just keep in mind that each kit will contain unique components. As a result, make sure you select one that includes everything you need to securely and correctly lower your Wrangler.

You won’t have to worry about miscalculations or part incompatibilities, though. These kits include any or all of the following vehicle parts (sometimes more):

  • Springs (leaf or coil)
  • Brackets
  • Arms
  • Shocks
  • Stabilizing bars

The kits will also include instructions, while some will provide a manufacturer guarantee for your peace of mind. Another advantage of Jeep Wrangler Lowering Kits is that you can install them yourself or get a professional to do it for you.

If you decide to take it this way, the Belltech 614 Lowering Kit (see on Amazon) is an all-in-one solution to consider. It also includes all of the alignment and installation components you’ll need for the task. Even better, depending on the sort of shock your vehicle requires, you may select between a Nitro Drop and a Street Performance package.

Belltech 614 Lowering Kit | Amazon
$313.00

These complete lowering kits are your all in one box solution providing you with all the necessary parts to lower your truck.

Buy at Amazon
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
12/13/2024 02:20 am GMT

Air Suspension System

Air Suspension System

Did you know that you don’t have to get your Jeep Wrangler permanently lowered? It’s all because of an airbag suspension system! I will say that while you can do this all yourself and it’s an option, air suspension systems are prone to breaking.

Installing one allows you to customize the ride height of your Jeep Wrangler to meet your unique demands. When driving on flat ground, lower it; raise it when traveling on rough terrain or carrying heavy luggage.

Coil Springs

You would need to remove your car’s coil springs and shocks and replace them with an airbag unit using this approach. An air compressor, airline, air reservoir tank, and an activation switch would also be required. However, this is a do-it-yourself job that does not require any special tools or equipment.

Leaf Springs

If your Jeep Wrangler uses leaf springs instead of coil springs, you should get them replaced by a competent fabricator. For example, instead of leaf springs, a four-link system will be used.

Install a Hydraulic System 

Installing a hydraulic system, such as an air suspension system, allows you to modify the ride height of your Wrangler. The distinction is that instead of air, this employs a fluid pressure system. Furthermore, this is considerably more expensive than an air suspension system; in fact, even upkeep would set you back a few dollars.

You can replace the coils on one, several, or all of your car’s suspension corners with a hydraulic cylinder for this option. You would also need to add hydraulic pumps, an internal control system, and batteries for the pumps to work.

This system will be quicker than an air suspension system with this configuration. However, we anticipate it will use a large amount of battery power.

Best Advice 

The easiest option to have an adequately lowered Wrangler without any difficulties and without putting in a lot of effort and time is to have it custom-lowered by a professional. Of course, convenience comes at a cost, which is a larger budget.

In my opinion, there is just so much that you can unknowingly break when trying to lower your Jeep, which would end up costing you more. I’m not saying that you can’t attempt it or be successful. Still, I only recommend doing it if you have a vast knowledge of mechanical skills.

You must also pick cautiously because not all technicians and businesses have the necessary skills and experience to custom-lower your Jeep. There are specialist stores for this, so do your homework to see one in your region.

Getting Your Jeep Wrangler Lowered

Getting Your Jeep Wrangler Lowered

You can absolutely decrease the ride height of your Wrangler, just like any other automobile type. When done incorrectly, however, it will have a detrimental impact on its suspension alignment and geometry. Excessive drivetrain angles might also put undue pressure on the Wrangler’s components.

As a result, be sure that you measure and follow the procedures correctly and only decrease the ride height to the permissible limit.

Although there are numerous DIY methods for lowering your Jeep Wrangler, having a professional adjust or replace elements of your vehicle is always the safest option. No one prohibits you from doing so if you have the necessary abilities and expertise for automobile DIY. After successfully lowering your Jeep Wrangler, you may need to acquire smaller rims and tires to match the new riding height.

FAQ

Question: How do I Lower My Jeep Wrangler?

Answer: There are around five things you could do to lower your Jeep. Make use of a shorter spring, change or adjust the track bar and control arm, install a lowering kit, install an air suspension system, or set up a hydraulic system.

Question: What Year of Jeep Wrangler Should I Avoid?

Answer: If you’re thinking of buying a Jeep Wrangler, avoid the versions from 2007, 2008, and 2012. Wranglers are not immune to difficulties, but these models are at the top of the list due to these issues’ severity.

Question: Do Jeep Wranglers Turn Over Quickly?

Answer: The Jeep Wrangler is notorious for having a short wheelbase, so it’s no surprise that it hit the top of our list. The Wrangler two-door has a 27.9% chance of rolling over.

The only significant difference between the Wrangler and the Wrangler Unlimited is the length (and door amount). As a result, listing this car individually may not be appropriate. While the increased size of the Wrangler Unlimited makes it more flexible, it does not lower its rollover danger. The Wrangler Unlimited is also at 27.9 percent.

Question: Which Jeep Wrangler is Most Reliable?

Answer: The Jeep Wrangler’s most significant years are 1980, 1990, 1996, 2003, 2010, 2011, 2015, and 2018. Each of these models has a unique set of features, benefits, and pricing. There is a model here for any budget because there is such a broad selection.

Conclusion

If you want to lower your Jeep Wrangler, I say go for it. I will say, however, this is a big job. If doing this by yourself, do the proper research and understand the tools needed.

If installing a hydraulic lift or air suspension system, understand the pros and cons and the tool’s reliability. I don’t recommend buying any budget options for the suspension since this is what your entire vehicle essentially sits on.

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