Some Notes on My AEV 3.5 SC Lift Install
11-03-2013, 04:53 PM
#1
JK Super Freak
Thread Starter
Some Notes on My AEV 3.5 SC Lift Install
Hey All,
Well, I thought I jot down some notes regarding my 3.5" SC install. In no particular order:
1) Make sure your Jeep is 100% stock first. Also, it would be nice if the suspension mounts are not too beat up.
My Jeep was far from stock. In the rear, I had JKS adjustable spring perches. These are not compatible with the AEV lift. I ended up cutting them apart and welding them on. I also had another 4" lift on there that used a hole drilled into the rear trackbar bracket, though it was in the wrong place.
In the front, I have EVO "C" reinforcements. These are in the way for the swaybar link brackets and the trackbar bracket. I ended up modifying the AEV brackets and welding them on in places (to the EVO braces). Also in the front, I had used cam bolts (dumbest idea ever). I acquired the AEV cam bolt "repair" kit (thanks Greg!) and welded these thick washers on to solve that issue.
The kit I had on before was of a very poor design, and ended up causing damage to the Jeep - damaged brake lines, torn off trackbar mount at the frame (front), crushed suspension mounts, etc. All are repaired now.
2) The AEV directions are not all that detailed. You need to take your time and think things through first. In many instances, there is hardware in the bag not referenced to in the directions - you need to "feel" you way though the steps. I will say that the text and pictures were very clear; you'd be surprised (or not) how many instruction sheets are horrid Xeroxed sheets.
3) It took me way longer to install than most - give yourself 2x the time suggested in case you run into any glitches.
4) Having the bolt torque chart was super nice and handy - many directions are vague on torque specs.
5) Phone support from AEV was top notch - very professional and they took the time to answer all my questions.
I am very pleased with the results - the Jeep has not driven and handled this well since new - the old kit was down right dangerous. Off road, in my quick test, was very comfortable and controlled. I could go way faster than recommended.
Well, that is it for now.
Well, I thought I jot down some notes regarding my 3.5" SC install. In no particular order:
1) Make sure your Jeep is 100% stock first. Also, it would be nice if the suspension mounts are not too beat up.
My Jeep was far from stock. In the rear, I had JKS adjustable spring perches. These are not compatible with the AEV lift. I ended up cutting them apart and welding them on. I also had another 4" lift on there that used a hole drilled into the rear trackbar bracket, though it was in the wrong place.
In the front, I have EVO "C" reinforcements. These are in the way for the swaybar link brackets and the trackbar bracket. I ended up modifying the AEV brackets and welding them on in places (to the EVO braces). Also in the front, I had used cam bolts (dumbest idea ever). I acquired the AEV cam bolt "repair" kit (thanks Greg!) and welded these thick washers on to solve that issue.
The kit I had on before was of a very poor design, and ended up causing damage to the Jeep - damaged brake lines, torn off trackbar mount at the frame (front), crushed suspension mounts, etc. All are repaired now.
2) The AEV directions are not all that detailed. You need to take your time and think things through first. In many instances, there is hardware in the bag not referenced to in the directions - you need to "feel" you way though the steps. I will say that the text and pictures were very clear; you'd be surprised (or not) how many instruction sheets are horrid Xeroxed sheets.
3) It took me way longer to install than most - give yourself 2x the time suggested in case you run into any glitches.
4) Having the bolt torque chart was super nice and handy - many directions are vague on torque specs.
5) Phone support from AEV was top notch - very professional and they took the time to answer all my questions.
I am very pleased with the results - the Jeep has not driven and handled this well since new - the old kit was down right dangerous. Off road, in my quick test, was very comfortable and controlled. I could go way faster than recommended.
Well, that is it for now.
11-03-2013, 05:11 PM
#2
JK Newbie
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: Mansfield, TX
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Thanks for your thoughts. I'm pretty sure I've narrowed my choice down to this kit when it's time to lift my '14 JKU Sport--hopefully soon! Helpful hints are always appreciated!
11-03-2013, 05:17 PM
#3
JK Super Freak
Thread Starter
I think you'd be very happy with it.
It gets a lot of flak as "just a bunch of brackets", but there is much more to it than that. Someone actually sat down and thought about it first.
It gets a lot of flak as "just a bunch of brackets", but there is much more to it than that. Someone actually sat down and thought about it first.
11-04-2013, 12:59 PM
#7
JK Super Freak
Thread Starter
I was too. I had it down to three lifts: the AEV 3.5 SC, the MOPAR Stage III and Rock Krawler 3.5 Max Travel. The MOPAR is very nice, and well priced. I do not need the reservoir shocks, and it is a rather challenging install. I also was looking for superior on road handling and great offroad ability. The MOPAR is great off road, but it is not as well known for its onroad manners. The Rock Krawler is known for both on and offroad manners, but it is expensive and complex too.
One thing I wanted to was simplify maintence, I spent hours a month just keeping my other lift working. AEV was simplest, least expensive and easiest to install and maintain.
One thing I wanted to was simplify maintence, I spent hours a month just keeping my other lift working. AEV was simplest, least expensive and easiest to install and maintain.
Last edited by SiliconTi; 11-04-2013 at 04:34 PM.