Hey Jeep enthusiasts! Ever dreamt of taking your 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport to the next level, conquering those trails, and turning heads wherever you go? Well, you're in the right place! We're diving deep into the world of lift kits for your beloved XJ, specifically focusing on the 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport lift kit. This guide is your ultimate resource, breaking down everything from choosing the right kit to installation tips and tricks. So, grab a wrench (or your phone) and let's get started!

Why Lift Your 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport?

So, why bother with a lift kit? Simply put, a lift kit can dramatically transform your 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport's off-road capabilities and overall aesthetic. Think of it like this: your stock XJ is a capable vehicle, but a lift kit unleashes its true potential. Here's a breakdown of the key benefits:

• Increased Ground Clearance: This is the most obvious benefit. A lift kit raises your Jeep, giving you more space between the undercarriage and the ground. This means you can clear obstacles like rocks, logs, and uneven terrain without scraping or damaging your Jeep.
• Enhanced Off-Road Performance: More ground clearance translates to better approach, departure, and breakover angles. This allows you to tackle steeper inclines and declines, as well as navigate challenging obstacles.
• Improved Suspension Travel: A lift kit often includes upgraded shocks and springs, which allow for increased suspension travel. This means your wheels can move up and down further, improving ride quality and keeping your tires in contact with the ground for better traction, especially on uneven surfaces. This is super important when you're flexing those wheels, guys!
• Aggressive Look: Let's be honest, a lifted 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport just looks cool! It gives your Jeep a more rugged, capable appearance that's sure to turn heads.
• Tire Size Upgrade: With a lift kit, you can fit larger tires. Bigger tires mean even more ground clearance and better off-road grip. Plus, they look awesome!

It's important to consider your intended use case. If you're planning on serious rock crawling, you'll need a more robust lift kit than someone who primarily drives on fire roads. Consider the type of terrain you'll be tackling and the level of performance you desire.

Types of Lift Kits for Your 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty. There are several types of lift kits available for your 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport, each offering different levels of lift and performance. Here's a rundown:

• Budget Boost/Coil Spring Spacers: This is the most affordable and easiest option. It typically involves installing spacers on top of your existing coil springs and/or adding shackles to the rear. These kits usually provide 1-2 inches of lift. They're great for a mild lift and a quick upgrade, but they don't significantly improve suspension travel or off-road performance.
• Coil Spring Lift Kits: These kits replace your stock coil springs with taller ones. They usually include new shocks and may also include other components like extended sway bar links and adjustable track bars. They offer a more significant lift, typically 2-4 inches, and can improve ride quality and off-road performance compared to budget boosts. They're a solid choice for a good balance of performance and affordability.
• Long Arm Lift Kits: These are the top-of-the-line kits for serious off-roading. They replace the factory short control arms with longer arms that offer significantly improved suspension travel and articulation. Long arm kits provide a smoother ride and better off-road performance, but they are more expensive and require more extensive installation, often involving welding. They're ideal for those who want the best possible performance and are willing to invest the time and money.
• Short Arm Lift Kits: These kits offer a good balance between performance and cost. They replace the stock control arms with upgraded, longer arms that bolt in place of the factory ones. This typically provides a lift height of around 3-4 inches. This lift type can improve your overall ride quality, while making the Jeep look great. This is a very common kit among many Jeep enthusiasts.

When choosing a kit, consider the following:

• Lift Height: How high do you want to lift your Jeep? This will influence your tire size choices and the type of kit you'll need.
• Budget: Lift kits range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Determine your budget before you start shopping.
• Intended Use: What kind of off-roading will you be doing? This will help you determine the level of performance you need.
• Installation Skill: Are you comfortable installing the kit yourself, or will you need to take it to a mechanic? Installation difficulty varies depending on the kit.

Top Lift Kit Brands for Your 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport

Okay, so you know what kind of lift kit you want. Now, let's talk about some reputable brands that offer high-quality kits for your 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport. This is where you'll find some of the best of the best when it comes to lift kits. Here are some of the popular choices in the Jeep community:

• Rough Country: Known for its affordable and well-rounded lift kits, Rough Country is a popular choice for those looking for a good balance of performance and value. They offer a range of kits for the 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport, from budget boosts to full suspension systems.
• Skyjacker: Skyjacker has been a trusted name in the off-road industry for many years. They offer a variety of lift kits for the XJ, including coil spring kits and long arm kits, known for their durability and performance.
• Rubicon Express: Rubicon Express is known for its high-performance lift kits and components. They offer a range of kits for the XJ, including short arm and long arm options, designed for serious off-roading.
• Rusty's Off-Road: Rusty's offers a wide range of products for Jeeps, including budget-friendly lift kits. Their kits are a great way to start off-roading in your Cherokee without breaking the bank!
• Iron Rock Off Road: Iron Rock Off Road is known for high-quality components and more advanced suspension systems, including long arms. Iron Rock Off Road is focused on durability. They are a good choice if you plan on doing some serious off-roading.

When choosing a brand, research the quality and reputation of the manufacturer. Read reviews from other Jeep owners and see what they have to say about the kit's performance, durability, and ease of installation. Finding the right manufacturer is essential to having a successful installation of your lift kit.

Installation: DIY or Professional?

So, you've chosen your lift kit. Now comes the big question: can you install it yourself, or should you take it to a professional? The answer depends on your mechanical skills, available tools, and how much time you're willing to invest. Here's a breakdown:

• DIY Installation: If you have some mechanical experience, access to the right tools, and plenty of time, you can definitely tackle the installation yourself. This will save you money on labor costs and give you a better understanding of your Jeep's suspension. However, be prepared for some challenges. The installation process can be time-consuming, and you may encounter stubborn bolts or other issues.
• Professional Installation: If you're not comfortable working on your own vehicle, or if you lack the necessary tools or time, it's best to have a professional install the kit. This will ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. Shop around and get quotes from different shops to compare prices and ensure they have experience installing lift kits on XJs.

No matter which route you choose, here are some essential tips for a successful installation:

• Read the Instructions Carefully: Before you start, read the instructions that come with your kit from front to back. Understand the steps involved and familiarize yourself with the components.
• Gather the Necessary Tools: Make sure you have all the tools you need before you start, including a jack, jack stands, wrenches, sockets, and any specialty tools required by your kit.
• Take Your Time: Don't rush the installation process. Take your time, double-check your work, and follow the instructions carefully.
• Use Penetrating Oil: If you encounter stubborn bolts, apply penetrating oil (like PB Blaster or Liquid Wrench) to help loosen them.
• Torque to Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. This is crucial for safety and performance.
• Alignment is Crucial: After installing the lift kit, you'll need to get your Jeep aligned. This will ensure that your tires wear evenly and that your Jeep handles properly.

Beyond the Lift: Other Considerations

While a lift kit is the centerpiece of your transformation, there are other things to consider when lifting your 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport. These upgrades will work hand-in-hand with your lift kit to give you the best ride experience, while maintaining the best performance that your Jeep can offer. Let's cover some additional essential components for your Jeep:

• Tires: Your choice of tires will greatly impact your Jeep's off-road performance. Consider the type of terrain you'll be tackling and choose tires with an appropriate tread pattern and size. Larger tires will complement your lift kit and give your Jeep a more aggressive look. Make sure the tires fit on your Jeep without any rubbing.
• Wheels: You may need to upgrade your wheels to accommodate larger tires and improve the overall look of your Jeep. Consider wheels with a different offset to help with tire clearance and improve stability.
• Steering Upgrades: Lifting your Jeep can affect its steering geometry. Consider upgrading your steering components, such as the track bar and tie rod, to improve handling and steering feel.
• Brake Upgrades: If you're increasing your tire size, you may want to upgrade your brakes to ensure adequate stopping power. Consider upgrading your brake rotors, pads, and calipers.
• Driveshaft Modifications: Depending on the lift height, you may need to modify your driveshafts to prevent vibrations and ensure proper functionality. You might need longer driveshafts with a high lift.
• Bump Stops: Ensure your bump stops are properly adjusted to prevent damage to your shocks and tires.

Maintaining Your Lifted 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport

Once you've installed your lift kit and made the necessary upgrades, it's essential to maintain your Jeep properly. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Regular Inspections: Inspect your suspension components regularly for wear and tear. Check for loose bolts, damaged bushings, and leaking shocks.
• Greasing: If your kit includes greaseable components, grease them regularly to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear. Check to see if your control arms and suspension components need grease.
• Alignment Checks: Get your Jeep aligned regularly, especially after off-roading or after any major suspension work.
• Tire Rotation: Rotate your tires regularly to promote even wear.
• Wash Your Jeep: Wash your Jeep regularly to remove dirt, mud, and debris that can accelerate wear and tear on your suspension components. Washing your Jeep is crucial to its maintenance.

Conclusion: Lift Your Jeep, Explore the World!

Alright, guys, that's a wrap! Lifting your 97 Jeep Cherokee Sport is a fantastic way to enhance its off-road capabilities, improve its appearance, and open up a whole new world of adventure. By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to choose the right lift kit, install it correctly, and maintain your lifted Jeep for years to come. Remember to do your research, choose quality components, and take your time during the installation process. Get out there, hit the trails, and enjoy the ride! Let's get those Jeeps lifted and ready for adventure!

Do you have any questions? Drop them in the comments below! We're always here to help. Happy Jeeping!