how high to lift?

[MarkH]

I bought an 89 YJ that is bone stock,I have finally decided that I want to run 31 x 10.50's. If the actual
tire diamater is close to 31 inches these will be 5'' larger
than the 205's that are on it now so I assume I need
at least 2.5'' of lift.Should I start with a combination of
body lift and/or longer shackles or should I go with a
suspension lift right off the bat?I am concerned about
the lifespan of the stock springs, at rest they are just
about flattened out, is this normal?

[lonegpr]

My 31x10.5 BFG KO's sit at about 29.5" in diameter on my TJ.

On your YJ, I'd think that a 2.5" lift will get you what you need to fit 31's. I'd opt for a new set of springs. OME would me a good choice, though a bit more expensive than most of the others. RE's 2.5" kit goes for about $550, includes everything you'd need. You could also add a 1" body lift on top of that. Anything greater starts looking funky with all the extra space between the frame and body. JMHO. :)

[Paulwpetrea]

I have a '90 YJ and originally went with a shackle lift, until I could get a Performance Accessories Body Lift (2") to help out. I purchased it with new 31x10.50s mounted already.

Since then, I have gone with a BDS (excellent lift!) 2", M.O.R.E. boomerang shackles, and kept the 2" PA body lift. I am about to change to 33" rubber.

You can see pics of it by following the link in my signature.

[MarkH]

Paulwpetrea

What length shackles did you put in originally?
Did you have enough clearance for the 31's
before you did the body lift?
What/who is "BDS"?

[jeepmonkey]

What/who is "BDS"?

Big Dick's Suspension

[Paulwpetrea]

Paulwpetrea

What length shackles did you put in originally?
Did you have enough clearance for the 31's
before you did the body lift?
What/who is "BDS"?

Okay, I can't remember exactly how long they were. The ones I originally went with were the 'Pep Boys specials'. Just a box of like really long (maybe even 12") to go with, at first. Personally, I would not do this for a long period of time. Only install these until you can do a body lift or suspesion lift.

BTW, I have them still, if you are interested. Pay the shipping and I'll gladly send 'em to ya.

Now, this gave me pretty good clearance, for my 31's. I then went with the 2" PA later. Just did what I could do at the time, with the money I had.

Lastly, as Jeepmonkey said, It's a Big Dick's Suspension. This suspension is the best! I have been thoroughly pleased with it. It also comes with an unlimited, no hassle type, warranty. They will replace it, period. I don't have the link handy, but I will look for it and post it soon.

edit: Here's the link Mark:

BDS suspension lifts (http://www.bds-suspension.com/)

I got mine from Bob Supplee. If I remember correctly, somewhere right around $300 dollars. The lift came with the transfer case drop kit. It does not however, include shocks. I purchased the Trailmaster SSV's for my rig.

Feel free to look at my pics and/or e-mail me too. Always glad to help ya out.