Short arm kits: What is a short arm kit? A short arm kit is a suspension system that typically utilizes the factory mounting points on the axles and the chassis for your control arms. These types of kits can use OEM control arms, heavy duty fixed length arms, heavy duty adjustable arms, OR any combination of these options. Short arm kits are the easiest system to install and upgrade, and are very versatile. These systems are best used in 0-4.5” lift range, depending on the vehicle. From daily driving to overlanding, to light rock crawling, these kits transform your Jeep into a swiss army knife. With a low purchase price, and fantastic performance gains over stock, these are a great bang for the buck!
FOUNDATION SERIES
Most affordable option
Huge improvement over stock suspension
Clearance to fit bigger tires and drive over larger obstacles
Has all required parts with nothing you don’t need
Great “foundation” to build on!! Upgrade when it fits your build timeline/budget.
Kit utilizes short arms (not a long arm kit)
Simplest installation, using basic hand tools. Minor drilling may be required.
BENCHMARK SERIES
Contains all “Foundation” kit features PLUS:
Includes most common and value packed upgrades over the Foundation Series to remain budget friendly.
Easy to upgrade without purchasing duplicate parts.
Kit utilizes short arms (not a long arm kit)
Still a simple install, basic hand tools required. Minor drilling may be required.
PREMIUM SERIES
Contains all “Benchmark” kit features PLUS:
Includes premium level features such as adjustable control arms, adjustable track bars, stainless steel braided brake hoses where applicable.
Highest performing short arm system
Kit utilizes short arms (not a long arm kit)
The best for mild lift height builds for all around versatility, adjustability, and durability.
Basic hand tools for installation. These kits usually contain several components with adjustments so we view this as a medium difficulty installation. Some minor drilling may be required.
Long arm kits: What is a long arm kit? Long arm suspension systems use a chassis mounting system that allows a much longer control arm set to be installed. Why? This allows for a flatter operating angle for and more straight up and down axle movement through the suspension cycle. The benefits include an improved ride comfort than otherwise equally equipped short arm suspension, significantly reduced binding allows more articulation keeping your tires on the ground longer, meaning more traction without the use of traction aides (like limited slip or lockers). Long arm systems often have easier provisions for swapping in different axles. The ROCK-LINK kits are Iron Rock’s answer for a premium long arm system. These systems are the best choice for modern installers since the benefits are “next level” when compared to any short arm systems. These systems are best used in 3-8+” lift range, depending on the vehicle. The installation can vary from simple to difficult depending on the system or vehicle application.
ROCK-LINK
Contains long arms in the front and short arms in the rear. This combines the premium performance benefits of a long arm system and the great value of short arms or leaf springs ;-)
Stronger than stock
Great for both high ground clearance builds as well as low center of gravity builds
Typically does not require exhaust modification.
Best for lifts above 3.5”, from daily driver to aggressive off-road driving style, including rock crawling!
Easy to upgrade by adding rear long arms at a later time. This allows you to build up to the ROCK-LINK PRO in stages as your budget allows.
Installation is usually longer than short arm kits due to the quantity of parts replaced/upgraded. Difficulty level is medium. Basic hand tools required. May require minor drilling/cutting.
ROCK-LINK PRO
Includes all ROCK-LINK features but upgrades from the short arms (or leaf springs) in the rear to a long travel, long arm system.
Great for any and ALL builds 3.5” and up. These kits EXCEL in ride comfort with also providing maximum off-road capability.
Typically requires exhaust modification. Iron Rock does have exhaust kits available for many models.
Installation difficulty is “hard.” Typically requires welding/cutting/drilling.
