What all do I need to install a lift kit? (I don't have any tools, jacks, etc.)

About how long does it take to install?

Any tips?

Also, after installing the lift, should I take it to a mechanic to get it aligned?

I plan on buying the Rough Country 4.5" Lift

 

No tools. No jack.
You will need someone that have these neccasary items. Jack stands too. Hopefully the person willing to help you has alot of PB blaster and a ton of patience. hint hint, the rear shock bolts are gonna snapp in two when you try to take them off. Not sure whick O.C. you live in, but, a shop will charge you more than what it's worth to install it for you. Look locally for a Jeep club. Ask for local help. Depending on the decay from the salt water and helpers expierence, it could take you anywhere from 5 hours to 2 days.

 

If your gonna start doing the work yourself then it would be a good idea to invest in some tools and jacks and safety stands.
And yes you will need to get it alighned after lifting it that high. Because your front wheels are going to toe in.
Your looking at a good 8 hours of install time with somebody that has the experience and know how.
My 6.5 took me well over 8 hours thanks to rusted fasteners.

 

I did my first lift with the folowing: 2" Bastard pack lift. Including alignment. Can be done in less than 8 hours but plan a full weekend.

PB BLaster, most valuable and important tool.
Floor jack
Stock jack
4 jack stands
1 ratchet strap
Full standard set sae and met sockets in short and deep.
few duplicate and big size sockets
Full set of wrenches sae and met
dead blow hammer
BFH
Screw drivers
pipe wrench (for connecting control arms and alignments)
spring commpressor
Thats IT.

The alignment is a MUST, use GOJEEP.com for writeup. It is a simple Do it yourself item. Legally a shop has to set it to stock specs. A lifted rig is no longer stock.

 

Would this work?

http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/web...___#fragment-3

 

I have used those spring compessors and they worked but I found it easier to just disconnect the control arms and swaybar and drop the axle as much as possible, then put the springs in. Your local parts store should have some loaners that you can use and return(they'll make it easier)

 

I think those are a waste of $$ on a XJ All you gotta do to remove the front springs is to unbolt the bottom of the shocks and unbolt one side of the track bar.
Then with the front jacked up supported on the body. Lower the front axle and your there. They come out rather easy no need for that tool.
I've done this like 10 times and it works. Even with tall coils with spacers.