Working on installing a zone offroad 4" suspension lift. I don't know if you're familiar with this kit, but it comes with 4 non-adjustable lower control arms. They're about an inch longer than stock. I've done my share of research (by which I mean googling a bunch) and it seems like for the most part people don't have any trouble connecting up their control arms. I've helped a friend do 2 XJ lifts, and we've struggled mightily to get the arms such that the bolts would go through. We end up using multiple jacks and all other manner of improvisation to get the things to line up. It's not fun.
On the TJ, I already have the new springs in, and the LCAs are still connected...or rather re-connected...and we had a heck of a time again getting things lined up. I don't see how longer control arms are even possible using the amateur techniques we've been using. Currently the track bar is disconnected, as are the steering components. So the shocks, springs, & upper/lower control arms are still connected (this is all on the front, the rear hasn't been touched yet).
So my question is what is the best/proper technique to get these control arms swapped out? The jeep is on the ground, I don't have access to a lift, in case that changes your answer. I'm sure we're doing it the hard way, and would love to be educated on the easy way. One at a time? Both together? Hoping to finish the install tomorrow night, hopefully the experts will chime in. Once we solve that, somebody can hopefully explain to me how to set these cam bolts properly, cuz that's another mystery currently.
Side question which I hope does not derail the thread: I assumed the new control arms were to adjust the pinion angle, but it seems like longer arms would push the pinion angle down, not up. I only have a physics degree, so please ELI5.
On the TJ, I already have the new springs in, and the LCAs are still connected...or rather re-connected...and we had a heck of a time again getting things lined up. I don't see how longer control arms are even possible using the amateur techniques we've been using. Currently the track bar is disconnected, as are the steering components. So the shocks, springs, & upper/lower control arms are still connected (this is all on the front, the rear hasn't been touched yet).
So my question is what is the best/proper technique to get these control arms swapped out? The jeep is on the ground, I don't have access to a lift, in case that changes your answer. I'm sure we're doing it the hard way, and would love to be educated on the easy way. One at a time? Both together? Hoping to finish the install tomorrow night, hopefully the experts will chime in. Once we solve that, somebody can hopefully explain to me how to set these cam bolts properly, cuz that's another mystery currently.
Side question which I hope does not derail the thread: I assumed the new control arms were to adjust the pinion angle, but it seems like longer arms would push the pinion angle down, not up. I only have a physics degree, so please ELI5.