Rubicon Express/Mopar 4.5" Long Arm vs Teraflex 4" Long arm, which one is best?

SaharaBlackNo1 · 06-01-2008, 09:06 AM

Ok, first rule forget the cost difference between the two. For this comparison I strictly want opinions based on performance of the two lifts, not which one is cheaper.

The reason I'm asking, is because the shop I talked to about doing the lift recommended the RE one over the Teraflex which I was fairly set on. They said the RE one has better on road manners (most of my driving is on city streets and highways) and therefore would be a better fit for my needs. This shop comes highly recommended in the DC area, so I don't think it's a question of them trying to get me to buy the more expensive lift. I've heard good things about both and my original debate was between the 2, but ended up deciding on the Teraflex, not only because of the things I've read, but because the rep who's on this forum and others was great about answering questions, etc. The shop is an authorized dealer of both, so it's not that it's something they don't carry and are therefore pushing what they stock.

So, I'd appreciate the wisdom of the Jeep Forum in giving me reasons to go with one over the other. Or if they're equal in quality, when I go in to the shop next week to get the written estimate for everything, I'll pick their brain a bit more and get more input from them.

**LHS-Cowboy** · 06-01-2008, 09:23 AM

Not really sure about the R.E. 4.5, but the R.E. 3.5 is excellent! Handles very well on and off road. Very smooth, no shimmys or vibrations. I added the adjustable Rancho 9000 shocks and the adjustable lower ball joints and it drives awsome! The kit is very well made.

**igofshn** · 06-01-2008, 07:13 PM

RE no question.

SaharaBlackNo1 · 06-01-2008, 07:21 PM

Wow. No question? I have questions! lol But that's because I just don't know anything about lifts. Why is it the better kit?

**LHS-Cowboy** · 06-01-2008, 07:36 PM

Never had a Teraflex kit but, the R.E. has all new arms with grease fittings and the upper arms are adjustable! I have had 2 R.E. kits and both were fantastic. No problems. They seem thought through very well. Also, there must be something good about them - Mopar chose them for the factory kit.

robncar · 06-01-2008, 07:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LHS-Cowboy

Never had a Teraflex kit but, the R.E. has all new arms with grease fittings and the upper arms are adjustable! I have had 2 R.E. kits and both were fantastic. No problems. They seem thought through very well. Also, there must be something good about them - Mopar chose them for the factory kit.

Right, why would Mopar choose them? The RE kit is a better kit, hands down. I wouldn't buy a Tera product if they were the last manufacturer going. I'd rather be stock. If the install shop, that is a dealer for both, recommended RE... that should tell you something too. I'll bet it's more than just margin.

**LHS-Cowboy** · 06-01-2008, 08:32 PM

Also, I use to work at several Off Road shops and there are kickbacks, incentives, etc. from manufacturers for the sale of their kits... Just a thought.

i.e. 4Wheel Parts will almost always push Pro Comp because it is their company.

SaharaBlackNo1 · 06-02-2008, 12:31 AM

Wow, all votes for the RE. I'm pretty surprised. Another point in their favor I guess would be that since it's the exact kit the dealerships install, they might be more familiar with it, if it goes in for service and perhaps be less likely to blame any problem on the lift itself? Between everyone here, the shop recommending them and Jeep going with the kit, it does seem like a good choice.

And anyone else wanting to chime in please do.

**BRICKTOP2** · 06-02-2008, 05:23 PM

I have the Mopar 4.5" Long Arm and couldn't be happier. On road manners are incredible. It cruises awesome on the freeway and takes speed bumps like nothin. Kinda spendy, but after the initial wallet pinch you'll love it.

**Imowgrass4you** · 06-03-2008, 10:52 AM

Can anyone give the the part numbers for the mopar 4.5" RE lift?

**BRICKTOP2** · 06-03-2008, 12:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Imowgrass4you

Can anyone give the the part numbers for the mopar 4.5" RE lift?

P5155075 is the part number for the whole kit.

TxJeepers · 06-03-2008, 12:37 PM

Had a Teraflex system paired with OME shocks on my old TJ and couldn't have been happier with the setup. Wasn't long arm, but all the same, it did great on and off road. I'd buy Teraflex again and just might when the boss let's me start building up my 08 JK.

**TeraFlex** · 06-03-2008, 05:25 PM

Sent a PM to you!

**BRICKTOP2** · 06-04-2008, 11:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TeraFlex

Sent a PM to you!

I'm not sure, but I think, based only on a weird hunch, that your PM may end up being SLIGHTLY biased.

VegasJeep · 06-04-2008, 01:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BRICKTOP2

I'm not sure, but I think, based only on a weird hunch, that your PM may end up being SLIGHTLY biased.

Im not biased in fact ordered up a RE Long arm 4.5" for my personal JK. Once we started installing these things I just cannot believe how bad it handles. Like I said in another post. RE even admitted to how CRAPPY this thing handled and drove. That is why after releasing the kit they now include a HD drag link to help tame this beast on the road.
I suggest you jump in a few other jeeps and go for rides. In fact drive in them. HUGE difference in handling.

By the way. I used to live on Jantzen Beach and have riden the train across the river hundreds of times.. LOL

06-01-2008, 07:13 PM	#3
igofshn Locked @ both ends Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Lemoore, CA Posts: 8,032 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	RE no question. __________________ 2007, 4 door, powered by a minivan engine, locked and riding on 35's. [Jeep Pics