SOA

[MerkL]

I know that a lot of you are running SOA's and a lot don't. I've been searching around, trying to find pros and cons to it. I'd just like to get the opinions of those who have it done. Do you enjoy it? Is it as good a ride? Any major problems encountered? And whatever else that you want to fill me in on. Right now I have a 3.5" sus. and 2" body and 33's. I'm thinking, only thinking, about putting some 35's on, and would want to do a SOA if I went that route. Thanks for the advice.

MerkL

 

[Joopin]

If you do the soa right, the pros should be greater than the cons. The only cons that I have really is that the ride is a little stiffer, it takes bumps harder at high speeds... both may be because I added a full rancho leaf to my spring packs. Another con is having to climb up in the jeep everyday! But it's worth it. Other cons that happen to SOAers but can be fixed are bumpsteer, springwrap, and driveline vibes. I drive mine everyday and I love it. I just cant do donuts in the mud anymore! DANG!

 

[hi_c]

Merk, I'd only suggest going SOA and 35's if you have 6 cylinders or more. I struggle with my 2.5L and 33's. I couldn't imagine what it'd be like with 35's. Plus, my 33's are only 10" wide, not the typical 12. But if you have the 6 cylinder, the SOA is the way to go.

SOA is the way to go, if you're going to do it right (ie. SYE/CV shaft, clean axle bottoms, lots'o'lift on stock springs, etc.)

C

C

 

[jps4jeep]

Some of the problem associated with SOA can be easily (but expensive) fixes.

Drive line vib- SYE and cv drive shaft
Axlewrap- a Fifth link type set up or traction bars
bumpstear- hi-mount stearing knuckles (drop pitman arm if you retain the 2.5" lift springs)

 

[Snitty]

joopin... i think your stiff ride is from the ranchos.... gotta be... the SOA actually makes a ride much softer.

merk... if you plan on the soa... you'll want to bring your lift springs down some... stock springs soa plus your 2 inch body lift should fit 35s fine... you won't want more than 2 inch lift springs on the soa... i'll be happy to trade you mine for yours

 

[Joopin]

Yeah the AALs were a toss up... I got them to put some life back in my packs, plus I didn't want to buy 4 soa packs from RE... a tad expensive. Ah well, I deal with it.