TJM 2.5" vs Slee 4" lift compairison

[CruiseOrlando]

So I recently went from a 2.5" TJM progressive lift with the XGS "gold" shocks (9-way adjustable) to a Slee 4" with the EMU shocks (N60070L & N60071L). I didn't know what I was really getting myself into as no one around me has the Slee 4" lift, so I couldn't really "test drive" it. I was really happy with the TJM, but I needed a little more room for the new tires, and I didn't want to bump-stop the heck out of the suspension.

Once I got it installed, I was ecstatic to see that it was level. Looks like the combination of stuff that I've got is just the right amount of weight for this Slee lift. I debated a bit with Christo on the phone about going to the heavy springs, but I'm glad I didn't.

I was also worried about the ride quality - but after driving on it for a bit now, it's hard to really tell the difference in "ride quality".

Overall I gained about 1.5" from the TJM lift.

Hopefully this helps someone else debating the myriad of suspension choices...

 

[2KCruiser]

Pics of before & after?

 

[CruiseOrlando]

Good point!

I don't have a lot of really good comparison pics, but here's a couple.

345's just installed, on TJM 2.5" lift:

1/2 way done, Slee 4" up front, TJM 2.5" in back:

And finally, the Slee 4" front and back, but missing the UCA extensions on the rear axle (tomorrow!). Note the axle is not centered.

 

[kbahus]

Looks perfect!

 

[locknloadfzj80]

I can't speak to TMJ but Slee has a great setup. Plus their extremely knowledgeable and a US based staff / company. I couldn't be happier with the lift I got from them.

You running part time on that?

 

[CruiseOrlando]

You running part time on that?

Yes I am. And I'm actually glad I did - my decision was either the PT kit, or a DC front shaft. Since I was already doing the Marlin low range gears, the PT kit was a no-brainer at that point.

I get a slightly odd almost growl sound off-throttle at about 65+, but thats the only noise I hear with both shafts spinning.

 

[nukegoat]

If you don't have any grumblies at low speed then I wouldn't sweat rear driveshaft angles too much. Re-centering your rear axle may also help some of that.

 

[RayRay27]

4" slee with 315 duratracs has to be about the best set up out there IMO.

 

[bajaphile]

Hmm I get that growl as well, feels like its coming from rear driveshaft. Anyone know how to fix? Does the pinion need to be rotated down to be more stock angle?

 

[nukegoat]

Hmm I get that growl as well, feels like its coming from rear driveshaft. Anyone know how to fix? Does the pinion need to be rotated down to be more stock angle?

When you start lifting the rear end about 4" or so, the pinion flange isn't parallel with the xfer case output flange as much as it should be. Small deviations are more noticeable because the operating angle of the u-joints is more significant now.

IMO, the best solution is to kill two birds with one stone and sleeve the rear lower links since they are already fairly weak. I had to lengthen mine only about .250 - .375" but your mileage may vary.

 

[Douglas S]

Any more side profile pics? 345's on a 4" lift looks perfect IMO.

 

[sdnative]

I get a slightly odd almost growl sound off-throttle at about 65+, but thats the only noise I hear with both shafts spinning.

Both shafts spinning? How are you accomplishing this with the PT? FWIW, I have a similar sound at partial throttle (full throttle and no throttle is fine) at ~70mph and it was attributed to the rear u-joints.

 

[CruiseOrlando]

I'll take more pics later. Nasty weather here today.

As for the "both shafts spinning" I've been testing the on road behavior a lot recently. Drive for a bit in rear wheel drive, then stop and engage the hubs and CDL, the drive some more. When the CDL is locked with the PT kit, both front and rear output shafts from the TC are spinning.

So when 4WD mode is going (not the best idea for long trips with no more VC in the TC) I get some sounds around 65-75 MPH, off-throttle. It stops after that (slower). With the castor off, I don't care to go faster than that.



...typed with my thumbs.

 

[thedoughboy]

Are you selling your TJM setup?

 

[erose54]

Are you selling your TJM setup?

I was going to ask that as well, but you beat me to it.

 

[thedoughboy]

First dibs!

 

[CruiseOrlando]

Geeze!

Thanks for the offers guys but it's already sold.


...typed with my thumbs.

 

[TexasJack]

When you start lifting the rear end about 4" or so, the pinion flange isn't parallel with the xfer case output flange as much as it should be. Small deviations are more noticeable because the operating angle of the u-joints is more significant now.

IMO, the best solution is to kill two birds with one stone and sleeve the rear lower links since they are already fairly weak. I had to lengthen mine only about .250 - .375" but your mileage may vary.

I have had my Slee 4 inch lift for a couple of years now and I am very happy with on pavement behavior and off road performance. I also get growling but only at a standstill. I have the heavy springs and the ride in my truck is best when fully loaded and a full tank of gas. My truck weighs over 6700 lbs fully loaded.


...via IH8MUD app

 

[CruiseOrlando]

Any more side profile pics? 345's on a 4" lift looks perfect IMO.

I guess I should deliver, huh?

I decided to de-flare today...

 

[Tennessee80]

Thread revival! What color did you paint those wheels, dude , or is that a gray powdercoat? Rig looks great, my old 80 had that color

Cheers