Hey guys! So, you're thinking about lifting your Jeep WJ with a Rough Country 2-inch lift kit? Awesome choice! The Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ, produced from 1999 to 2004, is a fantastic SUV, known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. Adding a lift kit, especially a well-regarded one like the Rough Country 2-inch kit, can seriously boost its performance and appearance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into everything you need to know about this upgrade – from what it is, to the benefits, the installation process, and some things to keep in mind. Let’s get started, shall we?

Why Choose a Rough Country 2-Inch Lift for Your Jeep WJ?

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of why a Rough Country 2-inch lift is a solid choice for your Jeep WJ. First off, this lift offers a fantastic balance of affordability and performance. Rough Country is a well-known brand in the off-road community, and their lift kits are designed to be relatively easy to install, even for those who are new to wrenching. This 2-inch lift gives your WJ a more aggressive stance, allowing you to run slightly larger tires. This upgrade provides better ground clearance, enabling you to tackle more challenging trails and obstacles. More ground clearance is crucial, as it reduces the chances of your undercarriage scraping against rocks, roots, and other hazards. The improved approach, departure, and breakover angles are significant advantages when navigating uneven terrain. This means you can drive up steeper inclines, descend more confidently, and traverse obstacles without bottoming out. The lift enhances the overall appearance of your WJ, giving it a more robust and capable look. Who doesn't love the look of a lifted Jeep? This can be a significant aesthetic upgrade. Aside from the visual appeal, this lift kit can improve your Jeep's handling and ride quality, providing a smoother ride on and off-road. The components are often designed to replace worn factory parts, restoring or even improving your Jeep's suspension performance. The kit typically includes new shocks and springs that are specifically engineered to work with the lifted setup. The result? Better shock absorption and overall handling. When compared to more extreme lifts, a 2-inch lift is relatively modest. This means you may not need to make significant changes to other components, such as driveshafts or brake lines, which can save you time and money during installation. It's a great starting point for those new to off-roading or those who want a capable rig without going overboard. So, to summarize, the Rough Country 2-inch lift is a budget-friendly, performance-enhancing upgrade that boosts both the capability and the look of your Jeep WJ.

Benefits of a 2-Inch Lift

Let’s break down the specific benefits you'll get from installing a Rough Country 2-inch lift kit on your Jeep WJ. Firstly, you will experience increased ground clearance. This is a big win for off-road enthusiasts. The additional 2 inches can make a noticeable difference when navigating uneven terrain, allowing you to clear obstacles that would otherwise cause damage to your undercarriage. You will be able to run larger tires. With the added lift, you can typically fit tires that are one or two sizes larger than stock. This increases your Jeep's grip, traction, and overall off-road performance. Larger tires also contribute to the increased ground clearance and improve the vehicle's aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, a 2-inch lift can improve your approach, departure, and breakover angles. These angles determine how well your Jeep can handle steep inclines, declines, and obstacles. A lift improves these angles, making it easier to navigate challenging trails without scraping the front, rear, or undercarriage. The kit will enhance the overall ride quality. Rough Country lift kits often include new shocks and springs designed to provide a smoother and more controlled ride. This is a noticeable improvement, especially when compared to worn-out factory components. A 2-inch lift improves the visual appeal. Let’s face it, a lifted Jeep looks cool. This lift gives your WJ a more aggressive and rugged stance, instantly improving its appearance. As mentioned earlier, it is a relatively simple installation. Compared to larger lift kits, a 2-inch lift generally requires fewer modifications, making the installation process more straightforward and less time-consuming. You might not need to change the driveshaft or other components, saving on both costs and the complexity of the project. The 2-inch lift offers a significant cost-to-benefit ratio. It's a cost-effective way to improve your Jeep's performance, appearance, and off-road capabilities. It's an excellent value for the money, providing substantial improvements without breaking the bank. Finally, it helps maintain the factory ride quality. A well-designed 2-inch lift kit, like the one from Rough Country, is engineered to work with the Jeep's existing suspension geometry, often preserving the factory ride comfort while enhancing off-road performance.

Installation Guide: Step-by-Step for Your Rough Country 2-Inch Lift

Okay, guys, let's talk about the installation process! Installing a Rough Country 2-inch lift kit on your Jeep WJ is a project that's definitely doable in your home garage with the right tools and a little bit of patience. Before you dive in, gather all the necessary tools and supplies. You'll need a set of jack stands, a floor jack, lug wrench, socket set, wrench set, and a torque wrench. You might also want a penetrating oil (like PB Blaster), a rubber mallet, and some safety glasses. Make sure you have the Rough Country lift kit for your Jeep WJ. It typically includes front and rear springs, shocks, and any necessary hardware. Begin by safely lifting your Jeep WJ and securing it on jack stands. Always work on a level surface and ensure the vehicle is stable before you start any work. Remove the front wheels. This will give you access to the front suspension components. Unbolt the shocks. This usually involves removing bolts at the top and bottom of the shock. You might need to use penetrating oil if the bolts are rusty. Then, remove the sway bar links. These connect the sway bar to the control arms, and removing them allows the suspension to drop further. Disconnect the brake lines and ABS sensor wires. Ensure they have enough slack to accommodate the new lift height. Now, remove the old springs. They may be compressed, so be careful. Install the new front springs. Make sure they are seated correctly. Then, install the new shocks. Reconnect the sway bar links, brake lines, and ABS sensor wires. Reinstall the front wheels and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications. For the rear, repeat the process. Remove the rear wheels and unbolt the shocks. Then, remove the old springs. Install the new rear springs, ensuring they are correctly seated. Install the new shocks and reconnect everything. Reinstall the rear wheels and torque the lug nuts. After you have completed this, lower the Jeep to the ground. Then, double-check all the bolts and connections to make sure everything is secure. Finally, take your Jeep for a short test drive. This allows you to check for any unusual noises or handling issues. It's also a good idea to get a professional alignment after the lift installation. This ensures that your Jeep's wheels are correctly aligned, which is essential for proper handling and tire wear. Remember to refer to the Rough Country installation instructions that come with your kit. They provide specific details for your kit and vehicle. Take your time, work methodically, and don't hesitate to ask for help from a friend or consult online forums if you run into any issues. Safety is paramount, so always prioritize it throughout the entire process.

Tools and Equipment You'll Need

Alright, let's talk about the tools you'll need to successfully install your Rough Country 2-inch lift kit! Having the right tools makes the job much easier and safer. First, you'll need a floor jack and jack stands. These are essential for safely lifting and supporting your Jeep WJ while you work. Always use jack stands, and never rely solely on a floor jack. Get a lug wrench. This is needed to remove and install your wheels. A socket set and wrench set. These are critical for removing and installing bolts and nuts of various sizes. Make sure you have both metric and SAE (inch) sizes, as your Jeep uses both. Get a torque wrench. This is necessary for tightening bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. Overtightening or undertightening bolts can cause damage or safety issues. Penetrating oil (such as PB Blaster). This is your best friend when dealing with rusty bolts. It helps to loosen stubborn fasteners. A rubber mallet. This is useful for gently tapping on components to help them come loose without causing damage. Safety glasses. Always protect your eyes from debris. Gloves. They help to keep your hands clean and protect them from cuts and abrasions. A pry bar or crowbar. Helpful for separating components or aligning parts during installation. Spring compressors. While not always necessary for a 2-inch lift, they can make removing and installing the springs easier and safer. Brake line wrench. Useful for working on brake lines to prevent rounding off the fittings. A good work light. It's important to have plenty of light, especially when working under your Jeep. Make sure you have a reliable work light or a flashlight. Also, a breaker bar or cheater pipe. Sometimes, you'll encounter bolts that are extremely tight, and a breaker bar or cheater pipe can give you the leverage you need to loosen them. Wheel chocks. Essential for added safety, to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Lastly, always refer to the Rough Country's specific instructions. These instructions may also list any specialized tools required for your specific kit. Having these tools ready to go will make the installation process smoother, safer, and more enjoyable!

Potential Issues and Troubleshooting

Alright, let’s talk about some potential hiccups you might encounter when installing your Rough Country 2-inch lift and how to troubleshoot them. One common issue is rusty or seized bolts. If you live in an area where roads are salted in the winter, rust can be a real pain. You might find that some of the bolts are stuck and won’t budge. Penetrating oil is your best friend here. Spray the bolts liberally and let them soak for a while. You might need to give them a few taps with a hammer or rubber mallet to help break them loose. If they still won't budge, try using a breaker bar or cheater pipe for extra leverage. Another common issue is difficulty aligning components. Sometimes, the new components don’t line up perfectly with the existing holes. This can be frustrating, but don’t worry! Use a pry bar or screwdriver to help align the parts. A rubber mallet can also be useful for gently tapping components into place. Remember to take your time and don’t force anything. Unusual noises can also appear after the lift is installed. If you hear squeaking, clunking, or other strange sounds, there are a few things to check. Make sure all the bolts are tightened to the correct torque specifications. Inspect the springs, shocks, and other components for any signs of rubbing or interference. The alignment is crucial after installing a lift. If your Jeep is pulling to one side or the steering feels off, it's likely that your wheels are not correctly aligned. Take your Jeep to a reputable alignment shop as soon as possible after installation. There could be vibrations. This is often caused by an incorrect alignment, unbalanced tires, or problems with the driveshaft. If you experience vibrations, have your wheels balanced and your driveshaft checked. You might also need to install a transfer case drop kit if the vibrations are coming from the driveshaft. Brake line issues can also occur. When installing a lift, it's possible that the brake lines might not have enough slack. Check your brake lines to make sure they're not stretched or under tension. If necessary, consider replacing them with longer ones or repositioning the existing ones to ensure they have enough slack. Always double-check all connections and bolts after completing the installation. Ensure that everything is secure and tightened to the proper torque specifications. Take a short test drive and listen for any unusual sounds or handling problems. When in doubt, always refer to the Rough Country installation instructions. They provide detailed guidance for your specific kit. Don't be afraid to ask for help! Consult online forums or contact Rough Country customer support if you encounter problems you can't resolve. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to a successful installation. Taking your time and addressing any issues methodically will help ensure a safe and enjoyable off-roading experience.

Common Problems and Solutions

Let’s address the most common problems and the solutions you need when installing your Rough Country 2-inch lift kit on your Jeep WJ. Rusty or seized bolts. This is probably the most common headache. To fix this, use penetrating oil. Spray the bolts and let them soak, then try again. A breaker bar and a bit of patience are your friends here. Another problem can be that the components don't align. Sometimes, the new parts don't want to cooperate. Gently use a pry bar or screwdriver to coax them into place, and never force anything. Squeaking, clunking, or other unusual noises. Make sure all the bolts are torqued properly. If this doesn’t work, inspect for any rubbing or interference. Also, check to see if the shocks are properly installed and not loose. After the lift, you could have alignment issues. An improper alignment will cause your Jeep to pull to one side. Make sure to get your Jeep professionally aligned after installation. You could experience vibrations. This can be caused by various issues, including driveshaft problems. Check your driveshaft angles, and consider a transfer case drop kit if necessary. Insufficient brake line length. Check your brake lines to ensure they have enough slack and are not under tension. If needed, replace them with longer ones or reposition them. Difficulty compressing springs. If you're working with the coil springs, you might have difficulty getting them compressed. Consider using a spring compressor tool for safety. Double-check all connections and bolts. Ensure everything is secure and tightened to the correct torque specifications. Take a short test drive and listen for any unusual sounds or handling problems. If you encounter any problems, always consult the Rough Country installation instructions. They provide specific troubleshooting guidance for your kit. Don't hesitate to seek advice from online forums or contact the manufacturer's customer support. Addressing these common problems with the correct solutions will help you have a more seamless installation process, allowing you to enjoy your lifted Jeep WJ to its fullest potential.

Maintaining Your Lifted Jeep WJ

Now that you've got your Rough Country 2-inch lifted Jeep WJ, let's talk about maintenance to keep it running smoothly and safely. Regular inspections are key. Inspect your suspension components periodically for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracked bushings, worn shocks, or loose bolts. Check your tire pressure regularly. Maintaining the correct tire pressure ensures optimal performance, handling, and tire wear. Be sure to check the alignment periodically. Even with a good alignment after installation, your Jeep's alignment can shift over time. Make sure you get your Jeep checked and realigned periodically, especially if you do a lot of off-roading. Inspect your shocks and springs. Check for any leaks in the shocks and inspect the springs for any signs of damage or sagging. If you do a lot of off-roading, you may need to replace your shocks more frequently. Lubricate the suspension components. Lubricate any moving parts in your suspension to prevent squeaking and ensure smooth operation. Check the driveshaft. If you're experiencing any vibrations, inspect the driveshaft for any damage or imbalances. You may need to have your driveshaft balanced or replaced if it's damaged. Keep an eye on your tire wear. Lift kits can sometimes affect tire wear. Rotate your tires regularly and monitor the wear patterns to ensure even wear. Keep your Jeep clean. Wash your Jeep regularly, especially after off-roading, to remove dirt, mud, and debris that can accelerate wear and tear on your suspension components. Maintain your fluids. Make sure to check and maintain the fluids. This includes engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid. This will help keep your Jeep running smoothly. Following these maintenance tips will help you keep your Jeep WJ in top shape and ensure that you get the most out of your 2-inch lift kit for years to come.

Long-Term Care Tips

To ensure your Rough Country 2-inch lifted Jeep WJ continues to perform at its best for a long time, consider these long-term care tips. Regularly inspect and tighten all bolts and fasteners. Over time, these can loosen due to vibration and use. Check them frequently, and tighten them to the manufacturer's specifications. Check and replace worn components promptly. Pay close attention to bushings, shocks, and other wear items. Replace them when needed to maintain ride quality and prevent further damage. Regularly lubricate the suspension components to reduce friction and wear. Use the correct lubricants recommended by the manufacturer. Keep an eye on your tire wear and rotate your tires. Uneven tire wear can be a sign of alignment issues or other problems. Get your Jeep aligned regularly, especially if you notice any unusual tire wear. Clean and protect your undercarriage. Wash off any mud, dirt, and road salt to prevent rust. Consider applying a protective coating to the undercarriage to prevent corrosion. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance and service intervals. Rough Country may have specific recommendations for their lift kits, so follow their guidelines. Drive responsibly and avoid excessive speeds or aggressive driving, especially on rough terrain. Slow and steady is often the best approach to preserving your suspension components. Stay proactive with preventative maintenance. This includes regularly checking fluid levels, filters, and other wear items. This will help prevent small problems from turning into bigger, more costly repairs. By following these long-term care tips, you'll be able to enjoy your lifted Jeep WJ for many years to come, maintaining its performance, and preserving its value.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Ride!

Alright, guys, that's everything you need to know about the Rough Country 2-inch lift for your Jeep WJ. You now know the benefits, how to install it, potential issues, and how to maintain it. This lift is a great upgrade for anyone looking to improve the looks and performance of their WJ, offering a noticeable boost in both off-road capability and on-road comfort. Get out there, install that lift, and enjoy the ride! Happy wheeling!