"flat" spring SOA

[highfill]

Here’s the deal… I am currently on 31x10.50s with an inherited 2.5” lift (not sure what brand), and stock axles (D30/D35). The goal for the next “build” is to get on 33x12.50s with a good axle and suspension setup that is still very road-worthy. This jeep is a daily driver that I would like to make more competent on the old fire/logging roads on the weekends, and be able to climb over a new thing or two.

I am pretty well decided on a Ford 8.8 in back with a Detroit Electrac. For the front, I’m thinking an Eaton E-Locker, but have not decided whether to move to a D44 or just put some TJ shafts and 297 joints in my D30. I suspect it would hold up fine for my driving style with 33s.

Obviously, I need about 4-5” of lift for those tires, and what I think I want to do is go SOA with flat springs – which is where I really need some advice. I know it would ride better than a 4.5” spring lift and think it should give me more droop. But I don’t know what springs to look at. I’ve heard the stock YJ springs are great for flex and ride, but wear out quick. What other options are there for “flat” springs?

[Caver Dave]

I'd go for BDS YJ replacements because:
1) They're relatively cheap
2) No BS warranty
3) decent flex & pretty tough
4) Military wrapped (I think...)
5) Should give you about 5"-6" of lift over stock (about 3"-4" over what you have now SUA)

[86CJ7]

I have the JCWhitney CJ7 rear 7 leaf springs and love them. I had 33" tires and it looked prety good. I now have 35" tires and it looks great an the ride is good.

[BurnedBronco]

a stock YJ in spring over will flex like mad!
they invert HARD
you will bend/tweak them if you flex it out alot. i have trashed one rear, and have one kinked front. the kinked front is minor, and has been on it for a year and a half of hard wheelign and it hasnt broken yet
its a zuk, buy 4 pack yj front, and 5 pacs rear


they ramp out just over 1100 on this 25* ramp

[mbalbritton]

I've recently picked up XJ Rear Leafs to use for my SOA. they are pretty much flat. Not to mention, longer and offset to give you a smoother ride, more flex and the ability to use the offset adn length to extend your wheelbase. Or turn the leafs to keep your wheelbase the same and move your spring hangers in.