Rusty's Off Road 3" Spring Pack Lift
Rusty's 3" kit (RK-303A-XJ) replaces front coils and provides a full rear leaf pack (not an AAL) for better articulation and longevity than the cheaper RC option.
Rusty's Off Road has been making XJ-specific suspension since the late 90s out of Alabama. Their 3" Spring Pack Kit is a step up from the Rough Country offering because it includes a full new rear leaf pack rather than an add-a-leaf, which gives more consistent arch, better ride, and more flex. Front gets Rusty's replacement coils, the rear gets the leaf pack, and the kit ships with shocks (typically Rancho RS5000 or Rusty's own).
Packages are configurable: you can pick shocks (Bilstein 5100 upgrade is common), add a track bar relocation or longer track bar, and add extended brake lines. Expect to spend around $700-900 depending on options. Rusty's leaf packs are known for being a touch softer than RE/IRO, which gives a pleasant ride but means lift sag is a known issue over years (the front and rear settle ~1/2" within the first year).
Geometry at 3" is the same as any XJ 3" lift: caster drops, the track bar pulls the axle to the passenger side cosmetically, and a transfer case drop is included. Brake lines should be replaced. Rear pinion angle is typically OK on a stock rear driveshaft. Rusty's customer service is responsive but their parts are not as widely stocked as RC; expect to order direct.
Why it works
- Full leaf pack, not an AAL
- Better articulation and ride than RC
- XJ-specific company, good support
- Configurable package
Trade-offs
- More expensive than RC
- Rusty's coils known to sag over time
- Lead time can be long (made in Alabama)
- Shocks-included options vary in quality
Tools required
- floor jack
- jack stands
- metric sockets
- spring compressor
- torque wrench
- pry bar
- leaf spring U-bolt tools
Parts
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| Rusty's 3" Spring Pack Lift Kit | Rusty's Off Road | ~$850 |
| Bilstein 5100 shocks (upgrade) | Bilstein | ~$280 |
Sources
Related
- Rough Country 3" X-Series Lift
- Old Man Emu 3" Lift (OME)
- RockKrawler 3.5" Stage 1 Lift
- Iron Rock Off Road 3" Short Arm Lift
- All Jeep Cherokee XJ guides & tools
- Browse the full DIY database
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. How we source guides. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.