Rough Country's 3" coil + AAL kit (PN 633N2/633XN2) is the entry-level full lift for the XJ. Includes coils, AAL, extended shocks, and minor bracketry; clears 31s easily and most 32s.
The Rough Country 3" X-Series (and the older 633N2) is the most common "first real lift" on an XJ. Front gets new replacement coils (not spacers), rear gets an add-a-leaf, and the kit ships with V2 monotube shocks (or N3 nitrogen shocks in older versions), longer rear sway bar links, and a transfer case drop. Brake lines from stock will be at their limit; many builders add extended stainless lines now and avoid the headache later.
At 3" of lift you should consider: an adjustable rear track bar or a front track bar relocation bracket (or live with the cosmetic ~1" axle shift to the passenger side until you go higher), and a slip yoke eliminator with CV driveshaft is NOT required (3" is the borderline; most owners are fine on the factory two-piece rear shaft, but vibrations are common on automatics). Caster drops by ~1.5-2 degrees; you can correct with offset bushings or live with it.
The ride on the RC 3" is regularly criticized as harsh because the coil rate is high and the AAL stiffens the rear. It is, however, very inexpensive (~$500 for the kit) and lets you run 31x10.50 or 32x11.50 with minor trimming. Many builders use it as a stepping stone or swap individual components (Bilstein shocks, OME coils) into it over time.
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| Rough Country 3" X-Series Lift Kit | Rough Country | ~$530 |
| Extended stainless brake lines (front) | Crown Automotive / RuffStuff | ~$60 |
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.