WJ LCAs on MJs/XJs

So, I read on a thread recently [and now can't find it] that WJ [99-04 Grand Cherokee] lower control arms will work for a mild lift to keep the front axle where it is supposed to be instead of having it come back towards the cab.

After a little research, I found the WJ LCAs appear significantly different than MJ/XJ LCAs:

MJ/XJ:

WJ:

Which leads me to ask if anyone can confirm:

1: If this is indeed the correct part

2: What amount of lift the WJ LCA is good for to keep the axle centered [2"? 4"?]

3: If there are any fitment issues or anticipated complications during installation due to different designs

4: If the oval bushing will cause any performance or clearance issues of the control arm vs a round bushing

I know these are a lot of Q's, but money's tight for Jeep modifications these days! The WJ LCAs would be for a DD rig with light offroading, intended 3" front lift, and 30" tires. I am still in the parts collecting phase in preparation of the front lift.

:popcorn:

WJ arms are the same length as MJ arms and should work up to 3" of lift.

to run them you just need to trim the steel bushings a bit and I trimmed the bracket on the axle a bit too to get maximum flex.

they provide much better on-road handling while still working very good offroad.

The biggest benefit is that the bend provides for tire clearance while turning. :thumbsup:

Ahh, I see. It took a little modification for it to work. Nice to have pics, too!

I'm glad I asked since I didn't see it as a direct swap without a bit of playing with it.

so just trim the axle part where it LCA would touch. should i use a coarse metal file or an angle grinder?

so just trim the axle part where it LCA would touch. should i use a coarse metal file or an angle grinder?

The bushings too- notice the pic shows them side by side, both trimmed and untrimmed.

now i notice what was trimmed on the top two pics :doh:

mostly asking if i should use a file or grinder, don't want to take off too much

angle grinder works great. it's hard to screw up. :thumbsup: just don't let the rubber bushing roast.

i put a set on my mj and my gf's zj.i think for what i paid for them they're worth it.

I used a chop saw with a metal blade for the bushings, and a sawzall for the axle brackets.

I don't like angle grinders because I'm more prone to "oops" with one.

And, the ride difference is definitely noticeable. I think this is a first rate mod.

I did the exact same swap a couple months ago

They werent that bad to install,the bushings had to be trimmed

I used a sawzall with a metal blade and a razor knife

They sit nice

I painted mine red before installation

Whatever you use to cut the bushing shafts, dip them in cold water while in progress to prevent the rubber from cooking. :cheers:

Jeesh Pete, even your hammer handle has rust. :D

it's everywhere man. :ack: even the plastic rusts here.