Hey Jeep enthusiasts! If you're looking to boost the off-road capability and stance of your '97 Jeep Cherokee Sport, you've probably been diving into the world of lift kits. Choosing the right lift kit can transform your ride, giving it a more aggressive look and enhancing its performance on the trails. But with so many options available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Let's break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision and get your Cherokee ready for adventure.

Why Lift Your '97 Jeep Cherokee Sport?

Before we dive into the specifics, let's talk about why you might want to lift your '97 Jeep Cherokee Sport in the first place. There are several compelling reasons, and each one can significantly enhance your driving experience:

• Increased Ground Clearance: This is perhaps the most obvious benefit. Lifting your Cherokee gives you more space between the undercarriage and the ground, allowing you to clear obstacles that would otherwise cause damage. Rocks, logs, and uneven terrain become much easier to navigate.
• Larger Tire Fitment: A lift kit creates room for larger tires, which not only look great but also improve off-road traction. Bigger tires can roll over obstacles more easily and provide a larger contact patch for better grip on loose surfaces.
• Improved Off-Road Performance: Combining increased ground clearance and larger tires results in a significant boost in off-road capability. Your Cherokee will be able to tackle more challenging trails and navigate difficult terrain with greater ease.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Let's face it, a lifted Jeep looks awesome! A lift kit gives your Cherokee a more aggressive and imposing stance, turning heads wherever you go. It's a visual upgrade that complements the rugged nature of the vehicle.
• Better Approach and Departure Angles: Lifting your Cherokee improves the approach and departure angles, which are crucial for off-roading. These angles determine how steep of an incline you can approach or depart without scraping the front or rear of your vehicle.

Lifting your '97 Jeep Cherokee Sport is a fantastic way to enhance its performance, appearance, and overall driving experience. Whether you're an avid off-roader or simply want to give your Jeep a more commanding presence, a lift kit is a worthwhile investment. Keep reading to learn how to choose the right one for your needs.

Types of Lift Kits for Your '97 Cherokee Sport

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of lift kits. There are several types available, each with its own set of pros and cons. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the right kit for your '97 Jeep Cherokee Sport.

Budget Boost (Spacer Lift)

Budget Boosts, also known as spacer lifts, are the most economical way to lift your Cherokee. They involve installing spacers on top of your existing coil springs and sometimes longer shackles in the rear. This effectively lifts the body of the vehicle without changing the suspension geometry.

• Pros:
  • Affordable: Spacer lifts are the least expensive option, making them ideal for those on a tight budget.
  • Easy Installation: They are relatively easy to install, often requiring only basic tools and mechanical knowledge.
  • Maintains Ride Quality: Since you're using your stock suspension, the ride quality remains largely unchanged.
• Cons:
  • Limited Lift: Spacer lifts typically provide only 1-2 inches of lift.
  • No Performance Improvement: They don't improve off-road performance beyond the increased ground clearance.
  • Can Cause Spring Sag: Over time, the added stress on the stock springs can cause them to sag.

Add-A-Leaf Lift

Add-A-Leaf lifts involve adding an extra leaf to your existing leaf spring pack in the rear. This increases the spring rate and provides a lift.

• Pros:
  • Inexpensive: Add-A-Leaf kits are more affordable than full suspension lifts.
  • Increased Load Capacity: The added leaf increases the load-carrying capacity of your Cherokee.
• Cons:
  • Stiff Ride: Add-A-Leaf kits can make the ride stiffer and less comfortable.
  • Limited Lift: They typically provide only 1-2 inches of lift.
  • Can Cause Spring Sag: Like spacer lifts, they can contribute to spring sag over time.

Shackle Lift

A Shackle Lift involves replacing the factory shackles with longer ones. This lifts the rear of the vehicle.

• Pros:
  • Inexpensive: Shackle lifts are another budget-friendly option.
  • Easy Installation: They are relatively easy to install.
• Cons:
  • Limited Lift: Shackle lifts typically provide only 1-2 inches of lift.
  • Can Affect Handling: Longer shackles can negatively affect handling and stability.
  • Not Ideal for Heavy Off-Roading: They are not recommended for serious off-road use.

Full Suspension Lift

A Full Suspension Lift is the most comprehensive and effective way to lift your '97 Cherokee Sport. These kits replace the entire suspension system, including coil springs, shocks, control arms, and sometimes even leaf springs.

• Pros:
  • Significant Lift: Full suspension lifts can provide anywhere from 3 to 6 inches (or more) of lift.
  • Improved Off-Road Performance: They significantly improve off-road capability by increasing ground clearance, wheel travel, and articulation.
  • Better Ride Quality: High-quality suspension lifts can actually improve ride quality compared to the stock suspension.
  • Enhanced Durability: Aftermarket suspension components are typically more durable than the factory parts.
• Cons:
  • Expensive: Full suspension lifts are the most expensive option.
  • Complex Installation: They require more advanced mechanical skills and tools to install.
  • Potential for Drivetrain Issues: Lifting your Cherokee excessively can put strain on the drivetrain and require additional modifications.

Long Arm Lift

Long Arm Lift Kits are a subset of full suspension lifts that replace the factory control arms with longer ones. This improves suspension geometry and articulation, making them ideal for serious off-road enthusiasts.

• Pros:
  • Maximum Articulation: Long arm kits provide the best possible articulation for extreme off-roading.
  • Improved Ride Quality: The longer control arms improve ride quality by reducing the angle of the control arms.
  • Enhanced Stability: They improve stability at higher speeds and on uneven terrain.
• Cons:
  • Very Expensive: Long arm kits are the most expensive type of lift kit.
  • Complex Installation: They require significant modifications to the vehicle, including welding and fabrication.
  • Not Street-Friendly: Long arm kits are primarily designed for off-road use and may not be suitable for daily driving.

Choosing the Right Lift Kit for Your Needs

Okay, so now you know about the different types of lift kits. But how do you choose the right one for your '97 Jeep Cherokee Sport? Here are some factors to consider:

Intended Use

How do you plan to use your Cherokee? Will it be primarily a daily driver, or will you be hitting the trails every weekend? If you're mostly on the road, a budget boost or mild suspension lift might be sufficient. But if you're a serious off-roader, you'll want a full suspension lift with long arms.

Budget

Lift kits can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Be realistic about how much you can afford to spend. Remember to factor in the cost of installation if you're not doing it yourself.

Tire Size

What size tires do you want to run? This will determine how much lift you need. A good rule of thumb is that you'll need about 2 inches of lift for 31-inch tires, 3 inches for 33-inch tires, and 4.5 inches or more for 35-inch tires.

Installation

Are you comfortable installing the lift kit yourself, or will you need to take it to a shop? Some kits are easier to install than others. If you're not mechanically inclined, it's best to leave the installation to a professional.

Ride Quality

How important is ride quality to you? Some lift kits can make the ride stiffer and less comfortable. If you want to maintain a smooth ride, look for a kit with progressive-rate springs and high-quality shocks.

Top Lift Kit Brands for '97 Jeep Cherokee Sport

When it comes to lift kits, quality matters. Here are some of the top brands that offer lift kits for the '97 Jeep Cherokee Sport:

• Rough Country: Rough Country offers a wide range of lift kits at affordable prices. They are a popular choice for budget-minded enthusiasts.
• Rubicon Express: Rubicon Express is known for its high-quality lift kits that are designed for serious off-road use. They offer a variety of options, from mild to extreme.
• Old Man Emu (OME): OME is an Australian company that specializes in suspension systems for off-road vehicles. Their kits are known for their excellent ride quality and durability.
• Zone Offroad: Zone Offroad offers a good balance of quality and affordability. Their kits are designed to improve both on- and off-road performance.
• BDS Suspension: BDS Suspension is a premium brand that offers high-performance lift kits with a focus on ride quality and durability.

Installation Tips and Considerations

Before you start wrenching on your '97 Cherokee Sport, here are a few installation tips and considerations:

• Read the Instructions: This may seem obvious, but it's crucial to read the instructions thoroughly before you begin. Make sure you understand each step and have all the necessary tools and parts.
• Use the Right Tools: Using the right tools will make the job much easier and safer. Invest in a good set of wrenches, sockets, and a torque wrench.
• Work Safely: Always use jack stands when working under your vehicle. Never rely on a jack alone.
• Torque to Spec: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. This will prevent them from loosening over time.
• Get an Alignment: After installing a lift kit, it's essential to get a wheel alignment. This will ensure that your tires wear evenly and your vehicle handles properly.
• Check for Drivetrain Issues: Lifting your Cherokee can put strain on the drivetrain. Check for vibrations or noises after the lift is installed. You may need to install a transfer case drop kit or SYE (slip yoke eliminator) kit to address these issues.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right lift kit for your '97 Jeep Cherokee Sport can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision and transform your ride. Consider your intended use, budget, tire size, and installation capabilities when selecting a kit. And remember to choose a reputable brand that offers high-quality products. With a little research and planning, you'll be hitting the trails in style in no time!

Happy Jeeping!