Jeep Long Arm Upgrade Kits: What They Do, Pros & Cons, and Who Should Upgrade

What Is a Long Arm Upgrade Kit?

A long arm upgrade replaces the shorter factory-style control arms with longer control arms that mount farther back on the chassis. By increasing control arm length, the suspension can move through its travel with a smoother arc. This helps reduce binding, improve axle movement, and bring suspension geometry closer to where it should be on a lifted Jeep.

In simple terms: a long arm kit helps a lifted Jeep move better.

Instead of the axle being forced through a steep, restrictive control arm angle, the longer arms allow the axle to cycle more naturally. That can improve comfort on rough roads, increase trail articulation, and make the Jeep feel more stable when properly installed and aligned.

Why Long Arms Matter on Lifted Jeeps

A short arm lift can work well for mild builds, especially around 2 to 3 inches of lift. But as lift height increases, the control arms sit at a steeper angle. That angle can create several issues:

• Harsher ride quality over bumps
• Reduced suspension droop and articulation
• More suspension bind
• Less predictable axle movement
• Poorer control arm geometry
• More stress on bushings and joints
• More alignment correction required

A long arm system helps correct those issues by relocating the suspension mounting points and using longer, high-clearance arms. For serious Jeep builds, this can be the difference between a Jeep that simply looks lifted and a Jeep that actually performs well off-road.

Best Jeep Long Arm Upgrade Kits Available at Off-Road Canada

Jeep Wrangler JK Long Arm Upgrade Kits

For 2007–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK owners, one of the strongest options is the Long Arm Conversion Upgrade for Jeep Wrangler JK 07–18. This long arm system is designed for JKs running roughly 4 to 6 inches of lift. It helps improve articulation, suspension control, and axle movement through rough terrain.

This type of setup is a strong choice for JK owners who want genuine trail performance, better control arm geometry, and more usable suspension travel compared to a basic short arm lift.

Best for: Jeep Wrangler JK owners running 4–6 inches of lift who want better trail articulation, smoother axle movement, and improved control compared to short arm suspension.

Jeep Wrangler TJ Long Arm Upgrade Kits

The Jeep Wrangler TJ is one of the most popular platforms for long arm conversions because of how capable it becomes when properly lifted. If you have a 1997–2006 TJ, the Long Arm Conversion Upgrade for Jeep Wrangler TJ 97–06 is a strong option for Jeeps running 4 to 6 inches of lift.

Off-Road Canada also carries the Rough Country Long Arm Upgrade Kit for Jeep Wrangler TJ 97–06. This kit is designed for 4–6 inch lifted TJ models and uses high-clearance lower control arms, long travel arms, and geometry correction to help improve articulation and ground clearance.

For 2004–2006 Wrangler Unlimited LJ owners, the Rough Country Long Arm Upgrade Kit for Jeep Wrangler TJ Unlimited 04–06 is a platform-specific option. The longer wheelbase of the LJ already gives it strong trail stability, and a long arm system can make it even better for crawling, overlanding, and rough backroad use.

Best for: TJ and LJ owners who wheel their Jeep regularly, run larger tires, and want more suspension travel, better geometry, and improved control on technical terrain.

Jeep Cherokee XJ and Comanche MJ Long Arm Upgrade Kits

The Jeep Cherokee XJ is already a legendary off-road platform, but a long arm setup can take it much further. The Long Arm Conversion Upgrade for Jeep Cherokee XJ 87–01 is designed for XJ owners running taller lifts and looking for better axle control, smoother suspension movement, and more usable articulation.

Off-Road Canada also carries the Rough Country Long Arm Upgrade Kit for Jeep Cherokee XJ 84–01 and Comanche MJ 86–92. This kit relocates the front control arms to improve alignment angles and helps the XJ/MJ platform gain more articulation off-road.

Because XJs are unibody vehicles, suspension upgrades should be planned carefully. A long arm kit can be a major performance improvement, but installation quality matters. Proper torque specs, alignment, steering setup, bump stop tuning, and supporting upgrades are important for safety and long-term durability.

Best for: XJ and MJ owners building trail rigs, rock crawlers, overland rigs, or high-clearance lifted Jeeps that need more front suspension travel and better control arm angles.

Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit

The 1993–1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ is an underrated off-road platform. With solid axles, available V8 power, and a comfortable interior, it can make a very capable trail SUV when built properly.

For ZJ owners, the Rough Country Long Arm Upgrade Kit for Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ 93–98 is designed for 4-inch lifted Grand Cherokees. Rough Country’s long arm design uses high-clearance components, heavy-duty crossmember construction, and long travel arms to help improve articulation and suspension control.

Best for: ZJ owners who want a more capable lifted Grand Cherokee for trails, camping access roads, crawling, and off-road exploring.

Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit

The 1999–2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ is another strong platform for long arm suspension. The Rough Country Long Arm Upgrade Kit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ 99–04 is a comprehensive 4-inch long arm upgrade designed to improve off-road handling, articulation, and suspension geometry while maintaining a practical center of gravity.

This WJ kit includes high-clearance control arms, a heavy-duty crossmember, skid plate components, and suspension geometry improvements that help the Grand Cherokee perform better on uneven terrain.

Best for: WJ owners who want a complete long arm upgrade for trail use, overlanding, and improved suspension performance without going excessively tall.

Pros of a Jeep Long Arm Upgrade

1. Better Suspension Articulation

The biggest reason Jeep owners upgrade to long arms is articulation. Longer control arms allow the axle to move more freely through its travel, helping the tires stay planted on uneven terrain. This is especially useful for rock crawling, rutted trails, off-camber terrain, and slow technical driving.

2. Improved Ride Quality on Lifted Jeeps

A lifted Jeep with short arms can ride harshly because the control arms sit at a steep angle. That angle transfers impacts more directly into the chassis. A long arm kit flattens the control arm angle, allowing the suspension to absorb bumps more naturally.

This does not mean every long arm Jeep will ride like a luxury SUV, but when paired with quality shocks, correct alignment, and proper installation, long arms can make a lifted Jeep feel more composed on rough roads and trails.

3. Better Control Through Wheel Travel

Long arm systems help the axle follow a smoother path as the suspension compresses and droops. That can improve predictability when the Jeep is climbing, flexing, or moving over uneven ground.

For JK and TJ owners, options like the Jeep Wrangler JK long arm conversion and Jeep Wrangler TJ long arm conversion are especially useful for drivers who want better suspension control and flex.

4. Reduced Suspension Bind

Suspension bind happens when components fight against each other during articulation. Long arm systems are designed to reduce bind by improving arm geometry and using joints that allow more movement. This helps the suspension cycle more smoothly on the trail.

5. Better Geometry for Taller Lifts

Once a Jeep gets into the 4-inch-plus lift range, geometry correction becomes more important. Long arms help restore more usable control arm angles, which can improve alignment range, pinion angle control, suspension movement, and overall drivability.

6. More Confidence Off-Road

A properly installed long arm kit can make a Jeep feel more predictable on the trail. More flex, better control, and smoother axle movement can help the driver maintain traction and control in situations where a short arm setup may feel stiff or unsettled.

Cons of a Jeep Long Arm Upgrade

1. Higher Cost

Long arm kits are more expensive than basic short arm lifts or spacer lifts. They include more components, more complex bracketry, crossmembers, joints, and hardware. Installation can also cost more because the process is more involved.

For many Jeep owners, a long arm kit is worth the money. But if your Jeep is mostly used for commuting and light gravel roads, a smaller lift or short arm system may be more cost-effective.

2. More Involved Installation

Long arm upgrades are not the same as installing basic shocks or coil spacers. Depending on the kit and platform, installation may involve crossmember work, bracket relocation, drilling, cutting, careful measuring, and precise alignment.

Some kits are designed to reduce installation complexity, but this is still a serious suspension upgrade. Professional installation is recommended for most customers, especially if the Jeep is driven on the road.

3. Supporting Mods May Be Needed

A long arm kit is only one part of a complete lifted Jeep setup. Depending on the lift height and platform, you may also need:

• Longer shocks
• Adjustable track bars
• Extended brake lines
• Driveshaft upgrades
• Slip yoke eliminator on some TJ/XJ builds
• Steering correction
• Bump stop tuning
• Sway bar disconnects
• Correct wheel and tire setup
• Proper alignment and caster adjustment

Before ordering, always confirm your exact year, make, model, lift height, drivetrain, and current suspension setup.

4. Not Necessary for Every Jeep

If your Jeep has a mild 2-inch or 2.5-inch lift and is mainly used for daily driving, camping, or light trails, a long arm kit may be more than you need. Long arms make the most sense when lift height, tire size, and trail difficulty justify the upgrade.

5. Ground Clearance Trade-Offs Depend on Design

Many long arm kits use high-clearance arms and heavy-duty crossmembers, but the new mounting points and crossmember layout can still affect underbody clearance depending on the vehicle and terrain. A well-designed kit minimizes this, but it is still something to consider for rock crawling.

Who Should Upgrade to a Long Arm Kit?

A Jeep long arm upgrade is ideal for owners who want more than just a taller stance. It is for drivers who want their Jeep to perform better.

You should consider a long arm kit if:

• Your Jeep has a 4-inch or taller lift
• You drive technical trails or rock crawling routes
• Your short arm lift rides harshly
• You want more articulation
• You want improved control arm geometry
• You are running larger tires
• You want better off-road stability
• You are building a serious TJ, JK, XJ, ZJ, WJ, or MJ trail rig
• You want a more complete suspension system instead of a basic lift

A long arm upgrade is especially beneficial for Jeep Wrangler TJ, Wrangler JK, Cherokee XJ, and Grand Cherokee WJ/ZJ owners who use their vehicles for real off-road driving.

Who May Not Need a Long Arm Kit?

A long arm upgrade may not be the best first upgrade if your Jeep is mostly stock or only mildly lifted.

You may not need long arms if:

• Your Jeep has a small 1.5–2.5 inch lift
• You only drive pavement, gravel roads, or light trails
• You are mainly upgrading for appearance
• You are trying to keep the build budget low
• You do not plan to upgrade shocks, steering, or alignment components
• You want a simple bolt-on weekend install

For those builds, a quality lift kit, leveling kit, upgraded shocks, control arms, or track bars may be a better starting point.

Rough Country vs BDS Long Arm Kits

Rough Country Long Arm Kits

Rough Country long arm kits are popular because they offer strong value, high-clearance designs, platform-specific fitment, and serious off-road improvement for many Jeep models. Options like the Rough Country TJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit, Rough Country XJ/MJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit, and Rough Country WJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit are great choices for Jeep owners who want major off-road capability without moving into the highest-cost suspension tier.

Best for: Value-focused Jeep builds, weekend trail rigs, lifted daily drivers, and owners who want a complete long arm upgrade at a more accessible price point.

BDS Long Arm Kits

BDS long arm systems, such as the Jeep Wrangler JK Long Arm Conversion and Jeep Wrangler TJ Long Arm Conversion, are designed around strong long arm geometry and trail performance. BDS is a strong option for Jeep owners who want premium suspension engineering, strong articulation, and stable on-road/off-road behavior.

Best for: Jeep owners building a more premium trail rig, high-flex Wrangler setup, or serious long-term suspension system.

Platform-by-Platform Recommendations

Best Long Arm Upgrade for Jeep Wrangler JK 2007–2018

Choose the Long Arm Conversion Upgrade for Jeep Wrangler JK 07–18 if you want a strong long arm setup for a 4–6 inch lifted JK.

Best Long Arm Upgrade for Jeep Wrangler TJ 1997–2006

Choose the Rough Country Long Arm Upgrade Kit for Jeep Wrangler TJ 97–06 for a strong value-focused long arm upgrade, or the TJ Long Arm Conversion Upgrade if you want a premium-style long arm system.

Best Long Arm Upgrade for Jeep Wrangler Unlimited LJ 2004–2006

Choose the Rough Country Long Arm Upgrade Kit for Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 04–06. The LJ’s longer wheelbase pairs well with a long arm setup for stability and trail use.

Best Long Arm Upgrade for Jeep Cherokee XJ and Comanche MJ

Choose the Rough Country Long Arm Upgrade Kit for Jeep Cherokee XJ 84–01 and Comanche MJ 86–92 for a strong unibody Jeep trail build, or the XJ Long Arm Conversion Upgrade for taller 4–8 inch lifted Cherokee builds.

Best Long Arm Upgrade for Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ

Choose the Rough Country Long Arm Upgrade Kit for Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ 93–98 if you are building a 4-inch lifted ZJ for trail use, camping, or off-road exploring.

Best Long Arm Upgrade for Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ

Choose the Rough Country Long Arm Upgrade Kit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ 99–04 if you want a complete 4-inch WJ long arm system with high-clearance arms, crossmember components, skid plate protection, and improved suspension geometry.

Long Arm Kit Buying Checklist

Before buying a Jeep long arm upgrade kit, confirm:

1. Your Jeep’s exact year, make, model, and trim
2. Whether your Jeep is 2-door, 4-door, Unlimited, LJ, XJ, MJ, ZJ, or WJ
3. Your current lift height
4. Your desired tire size
5. Whether your current shocks are long enough
6. Whether you need extended brake lines
7. Whether you need driveshaft upgrades
8. Whether steering correction is required
9. Whether your Jeep needs adjustable track bars
10. Whether you want a value kit or premium system
11. Whether you plan to install it yourself or use a professional shop

A long arm kit should be treated as a suspension system, not just another bolt-on accessory. The better the planning, the better the final Jeep will drive.

Final Thoughts: Is a Jeep Long Arm Upgrade Worth It?

A Jeep long arm upgrade is worth it if your build needs real suspension performance. If you have a 4-inch or taller lift, drive technical trails, want more articulation, or feel like your current short arm setup rides too harshly, a long arm kit can completely change how your Jeep performs.

For Wrangler JK owners, the JK long arm conversion upgrade is a strong choice for lifted Jeep performance. For TJ owners, the Rough Country TJ long arm kit and TJ long arm conversion are excellent options. For classic Jeep platforms, the XJ/MJ long arm kit, ZJ long arm kit, and WJ long arm kit give older Jeep platforms the suspension geometry and articulation needed for serious off-road use.

If your Jeep is built for more than looks, a long arm upgrade is one of the most important suspension upgrades you can make. Explore all available options in Off-Road Canada’s Long Arm Upgrade Kits collection and choose the kit that matches your Jeep, lift height, tire size, and trail goals.