The 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a classic SUV, known for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities. However, many owners want to enhance these capabilities even further, leading them to consider a lift kit. Choosing the right lift kit for your 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee is crucial, as it impacts your vehicle's performance, handling, and overall aesthetics. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the options and make an informed decision.
What is a Lift Kit and Why Would I Need One?
A lift kit increases the distance between your Jeep's chassis and its axles, raising the vehicle's overall height. This provides several benefits:
- Increased Ground Clearance: A lifted Jeep can tackle more challenging terrains, including rocks, bumps, and deep ruts, without scraping the undercarriage.
- Larger Tires: A lift kit allows you to install larger-diameter tires, improving traction and off-road performance. Larger tires also offer a more aggressive look.
- Improved Approach, Breakover, and Departure Angles: These angles determine a vehicle's ability to climb obstacles. A lift kit significantly improves these angles, enhancing off-road capabilities.
- Enhanced Visual Appeal: Many Jeep owners appreciate the enhanced aesthetic appeal of a lifted vehicle.
Types of Lift Kits for a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Several types of lift kits are available, each with its own pros and cons:
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Body Lift Kits: These kits raise the body of the Jeep relative to the frame. They are generally less expensive and easier to install but offer less ground clearance improvement compared to suspension lifts. They also don't improve the approach, breakover, and departure angles as much.
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Suspension Lift Kits: These kits modify the suspension system, providing a more substantial lift and improved off-road performance. They offer better ground clearance, improved handling (with proper components), and a smoother ride. Suspension lift kits are more expensive and complex to install. Sub-categories include:
- Spacers: These are the simplest type of suspension lift, adding spacers to existing suspension components. They are generally less expensive but may affect the ride quality and handling.
- Coils and Shocks: These kits replace the factory coils and shocks with longer ones, offering a more significant lift and improved ride quality compared to spacers.
- Long Arm Kits: These are more complex kits that replace the control arms with longer ones, offering significant articulation and improved off-road performance. They're typically used for serious off-roading.
What Lift Height Should I Choose?
The ideal lift height depends on your intended use and personal preference. Common lift heights for the 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee range from 2 inches to 6 inches or more. Larger lifts often require more significant modifications and may impact the vehicle's handling and drivability. Consider your budget, desired off-road capabilities, and daily driving conditions when choosing a lift height.
What size tires can I fit with a [X]-inch lift?
This depends heavily on the specific lift kit and wheel offset. A 2-inch lift might accommodate 31-inch tires, while a 4-inch lift might allow for 33-inch or even 35-inch tires. Always check the lift kit manufacturer's specifications and consult with a tire professional to ensure proper fitment and avoid rubbing issues.
What are the potential downsides of installing a lift kit?
While lift kits offer many advantages, there are also potential drawbacks to consider:
- Increased Center of Gravity: A higher center of gravity can make the vehicle more prone to rollovers, especially when cornering at higher speeds.
- Potential Handling Issues: Improperly installed or poorly designed lift kits can negatively impact handling and stability.
- Increased Wear and Tear: A lift kit can put additional stress on various vehicle components, potentially leading to increased wear and tear.
- Cost: Lift kits can be expensive, especially higher-quality suspension lift kits and the associated installation costs.
Where can I buy a lift kit and have it installed?
Lift kits are available from various retailers, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores specializing in Jeep parts. Installation can be done by yourself (if you have the necessary mechanical skills and tools), or by a professional Jeep mechanic. Choosing a reputable installer is crucial to ensure proper installation and avoid potential issues.
Choosing the right 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee lift kit requires careful consideration of your needs and budget. Thorough research and consultation with experienced Jeep enthusiasts or professionals will help you make the best decision for your vehicle and your off-road adventures.
