Hey guys, I got a 2012 JKU sport a few weeks ago, and just sold my old YJ so I have cash in hand to order up all my parts.

I've been reading a ton of threads on lifting the '12s and I just want to make sure I am clear on what I need to get.

Background: jeep is my DD, 20 miles round trip to work (mostly highway). The only frequent "offroading" it will see is for surf fishing on Delaware beaches, and maybe a trip or 2 a year to Rausch for some easy trails.

I was almost set to order 2.5" TF coils with shock adapters, with the plan to eventually get new shocks in a year or two. Rugged Ridge wheels with 315/70r17 Duratracs. That is until I started reading threads on driveshaft issues, exhaust spacers/y-pipe, tracbars, etc.

For my particular setup, how much of this is necessary? I do not want to cause any excess wear/damage to the jeep, but at the same time, don't want to worry about voiding warranties. I have an extended warranty, and the dealership told me as long as I don't go over 2.5" I'm fine.

Please let me know if there is a better option for what I'm looking to do, different lift, flat fenders instead, etc that wouldn't cause as much need for additional parts. I'm trying to keep this at a reasonable cost, but don't want to reduce the quality/lifespan of the jeep. I plan to keep this for a long time. (famous last words)

I appreciate any input. Please keep in mind I'm not looking for the most capable offroad ride.

You guys rock!

 

Track bar brackets at the minimum would be suggested. You shouldn't hit DS issues because you won't be disconnecting the swaybar or doing big flexing. Shock adapters will be fine, I'm running them right now and have been for quite awhile.

As to the exhaust/Y-Pipe, Someone else needs to chime in with a 2012 info.

 

Thanks Delux

Anyone else want to chime in on the exhaust issue... Especially how it relates to warranty. Thanks.

 

curious if i'd be able to get away with a 2" OME lift (or something similar), and cut fenders... that would eliminate the need for a new DS, or affecting exhaust at all - correct? from what i've read it seems like 35s will work with a 2" and flat fenders other than at full flex (which i won't be doing anytime soon). thanks for any help.

this money is burning a hole in my pocket haha

 

I'm running a '12 Rubicon JK with the same tires in a 16" wheel and just ordered a RK 2.5 Max Travel kit. I'm not scared yet.

The jury seems to still be in session concerning exhaust modification options. There just isn't a lot of hard data out there since we have a new engine and exhaust system. We should be seeing it at some point soon. I know of a poster or two saying they will be offering before and after dyno information so we can see how each of these exhaust mods compares.

My plan is to modify exhaust as little as possible. It kind of sucks that there is this added complication when lifting these vehicles is so common. However, we will prevail.

 

I will be running a 4.5 inch AEV Dual Sport SC with an AFE Y-Pipe, and plan to keep the stock front driveshaft for as long as I can. AEV claims that I don't need to replace the d.s.

I too was worried about warranty issues, as I bought the lifetime bumper to bumper wrap. I told the dealer if he wanted me to keep that expensive warranty, he must put into writing that the "dealer installed AEV lift will not void lifetime bumper to bumper warranty on factory parts" he did, and the lift is being installed as we speak.

It just depends on your particular dealer, and what they are willing to deal with. This same dealer installed and warrantied my 09 with a 4.5 inch Mopar lift. (never had any issues with them not covering warranty work.)

 

AEV said you don't need a DS even at 4.5"??

This is what I'm struggling with. Too many differing opinions. Thanks for the info!

 

Nice dealership!

 

In reading more. I'm thinking of maybe just going TF Leveling kit with 315/70r17. Sounds like I won't have any rub issues unless there's alot of flex ( which won't happen). I won't be disconnecting sways. Also figure I'll trim the air dam and pinch seam if necessary. Even willing to trim fenders, though I'm thinking I won't need to. This will eliminate any need for DS or exhaust mods with the '12.

Anyone running a similar setup? Have seen some guys with 315/70r17 with flat fenders and no rub so I'd think my idea should work.

 

This is mine I spoke of earlier. 315/75/16s on it. Stock suspension. Fenders cut. Would cut the seam if lift kit wasn't in the mail.