Hey, I'm new here

[Tooten88]

So a couple weeks ago, I picked this rusty boy up. 2003, Low mileage, the frame isn't in too terrible shape. Had some aftermarket lights taken off, took off the rocker panels, new 30' tires, body mount bushings, good cleaning, new battery, new brakes.

well yesterday, I got to take it to my local tire places to see about an alignment. Wobbled all the way there. They won't touch it because of the lift. (Not sure how much of a lift I even have). Tried to make some small adjustments myself and haven't had it out since.

after working on it these couple weeks (I'm not a mechanic by any means and thought this would be a good vehicle to learn on due to the huge online community and resources) I have found that this vehicle was severely neglected and not taken care of properly. I guess my question is, where do I go from here? If balljoints and whatnot need replaced the lift will just cause more wear on them, right? Should I redo it all? I want to drive this baby to work and not worry about killing anyone in the process.

 

[Rubicon88]

The only relevant picture is the last one and it's not enough.
You need more pics of the suspension/steering

 

[06lj]

Welcome!
If it has been neglected like you describe I would recommend replacing all of the front end components. It looks like it's been a problem for a while and somebody tried to fix it with an additional steering stabilizer. Shame on them. Throw that in the trash. Stock replacement ball joints are fine with lifts and Spicer are good quality replacements. It appears your lower control arm bushings are poly which are not highly regarded here. I would closely inspect the bushings and replace them if necessary. Likely your upper control arms are still stock and may be completely rotted out. If you need to replace the bushings I would just get a full set of stock control arms which are an excellent design despite looking flimsy. With 30" tires you could also return it to stock height which will alleviate some issues that can arise from suspension lifts. Looks like it will be a fun project!

 

[Wtrask]

Welcome. I’m new also. I would get your Jeep checked out by a reputable shop before you start throwing parts at it. That looks like a skyjacker lift if I had to guess? I agree the steering stabilizers need to be removed. Get yourself a new one. Stock is fine unless you wanna spend more money.

 

[glowell222]

Welcome to the forum.

I suggest you start with a wheel balancing. Won't solve your issue, it's just to find a baseline from where to start. Then inspect your tie rod ends and find out what you have for anti-roll and make sure those connections are in good condition as well. Also, be sure to inspect the rear components, and check the driveline: both driveshafts seem to be in good condition? All of your rotating mass and their connections/controls need to have a hard look-anything bent out of whack? Finally, be sure to check all of the hubs and bearings. Once you know the condition of these items, you have an idea of where to start.