Measuring rear coil springs

[Mark Morgan]

So I'd like to replace the coil springs and shocks on a 97 TJ I recently purchased. It was previously lifted and I was measuring the coil springs to match the current lift. As I understand it the stock height of loaded springs is 12 inches front, 8 inches rear. I have 16 inches in front, indicating a 4 inch lift??? My issue is measuring the rear springs. The top spring bucket is angled front to back. Do I measure front (shortest), center or rear (longest) length? I've read that some install 4 inch front and 2.5 inch rear lifts to level stock height. I just want to make sure I match the existing lift as the jeep runs well and looks great at current height. Any suggestions on confirming rear spring height?

 

[JMT]

I’d measure center. I think @bobthetj03 derermined this as the best way for front and rear. And yeah, often the rear needs less lift if you want your Jeep level. Of course, the choice of spring and final lift relates to spring rate and your rig, thus the reason I think people end up using leveling spacers

 

[jjvw]

Measuring from center makes the most sense to me.

Keep in mind that an empty level Jeep in the driveway won't be level once it is loaded with people and cargo.

 

[Mark Morgan]

I’d measure center. I think @bobthetj03 derermined this as the best way for front and rear. And yeah, often the rear needs less lift if you want your Jeep level. Of course, the choice of spring and final lift relates to spring rate and your rig, thus the reason I think people end up using leveling spacers

Thanks for the quick reply and info!

 

[bobthetj03]

Why are you replacing the rear springs/shocks?

 

[Mike_H]

If measuring in the middle is difficult, you can measure the front and rear, add them together, then divide by two... That will tell you the middle measurement.