Last Updated on April 15, 2023
For Jeep wrangler owners who want to test the limits of their vehicles, off-roading is a thrilling way to do so. But tackling adventurous terrain can be challenging without an upgraded suspension system that offers improved performance and durability.
Two of the top contenders when considering suspension upgrades are AEV and JKS Lift Kit.
Both kits offer great advantages when tackling difficult terrain, all while providing a comfortable ride. Although they are similar in certain aspects, the most significant difference is affordability & durability.
The JKS lift kit is slightly more expensive than the AEV kit, but it has more features and added durability. Some other notable distinctions exist between them, including build quality and longevity, performance characteristics and compatibility with other upgrades for optimal performance.
To help ensure you choose which is ideal for your 4×4, we’re here to show how they differ and provide all the key details.
AEV vs JKS Jeep Lift Kit: Important Differences
With so many Jeep wrangler jk lift kits on the market, knowing which one is right for you can be hard. Determining between an AEV and JKS kit requires keen research and an understanding of the various distinctions.
Here are the primary differences between AEV and JKS:
Build Quality and Longevity
Regarding building quality and longevity, both AEV and JKS have superior offerings that can stand up to off-roading conditions. However, AEV has a reputation for having the highest-quality components made from premium materials like stainless steel or aluminum.
For example, their ProCal Module is designed to last through multiple uses without degradation, whereas some other modules may wear down after repeated use. Besides that, their suspension systems feature high corrosion resistance coatings that help preserve the kit even in harsh environments.
Meanwhile, JKS lift kits are made from premium-grade materials like steel and aluminum as well as cutting-edge machinery for precise fitment. A unique design distributes weight evenly across all four corners, improving stability and wear resistance on certain terrains.
Performance Characteristics
Both brands offer similar benefits, including improved handling off-road capabilities due to their additional ground clearance, reducing drag when tackling difficult terrain. The main difference between the two lies in how they handle on-road performance.
The AEV kit was excellent on-road, providing a smooth ride with good handling characteristics. Overall off-road performance was good too, but its long wheel travel can cause some instability in certain conditions.
Alternatively, JKS integrates progressive-rate coil springs into its suspension systems. Hence, you experience a smoother ride even when encountering harsh bumps and dips in the road, making it better suited for regular highway usage than that AEV’s setup.
Accessories
When comparing the accessories each brand offers for their respective lift kits, it becomes clear that they have some noticeable differences.
While both brands offer a wide range of add-ons, such as skid plates, winches, shocks, etc. Each offers different styles from one another, so it’s important to compare before purchasing any additional items along with your kit.
For instance, AEV provides a variety of all-terrain tires designed specifically for off-roading activities. While JKS offers more traditional mud terrain tires meant for less intense terrain but still capable enough for off-road use.
Compatibility with Other Upgrades
The compatibility with other upgrades varies between each brand. While most aftermarket parts will fit both kits without issue. But some may require modifications depending on what you’re planning on doing with your Jeep (i.e., installing skid plates or larger tires).
With AEV’s kit, you can easily use additional brackets or spacers if needed while still maintaining an OEM look and feel due to its straightforward bolt-on design. This isn’t always possible when using other aftermarket parts with the same kit from another manufacturer.
On the other hand, JK’s kit is highly adaptive, allowing you to install any aftermarket part without too much effort. Making it ideal for those who like customizing their rigs often.
Durability & Strength
JKS and AEV make sure their products are built tough enough to handle any off-road conditions while maintaining adequate levels of comfort inside the cab during highway cruising. As well as whatever else comes up while driving around town regularly during normal everyday Jeep activities.
We know that AEV generally uses heavier steel alloy construction, which gives their products added sturdiness compared to those produced by JKS. Yet this doesn’t guarantee each product will last longer in every situation since companies build with different restrictions and usage decisions in mind.
To know how durable either company’s products are, we’ll have to test them rigorously over a long period to measure the results accurately. Only then can we fully evaluate the strength of AEV and JKS’s respective products.
Cost Difference
The JKS lift and the AEV lift kit offer very similar costs, with the JKS being slightly more expensive. But in making this decision, it is essential to consider the initial cost and their long-term value. With extras like adjustable control arms, AEV kits offer many more customization options.
Even though it might seem like more of an upfront financial commitment, an AEV kit can boost performance. Considering all of your options before making your final decision will ensure you get maximum value out of whichever lift you choose.
How Much Lift Do AEV And JKS Lift Kits Provide?
The AEV lift kit offers a range of 3.5″ to 4.5″ lifts, with the option for reduced heights if desired. Meanwhile, JKS can get up to 2.5″ to 3.5″ of additional ride height from their suspension system.
Depending on the application, some vehicles may require additional modifications for optimal performance and clearance when using either brand’s lift kit. On top of that, both systems utilize specific shock absorbers and spacers to ensure comfortable off-road driving without sacrificing stability or handling.
Also, both companies offer adjustable track bars and sway bar disconnects for improved articulation when traversing uneven terrain. This allows drivers to experience a smoother ride even in the most challenging conditions.
What Are the Tire Size Options For AEV And JKS Lift Kits?
For AEV models, general tire sizes range from 35 x 12.50 to 37 x 12.50 inches. Then again, some may require modifications to accommodate larger tires within this range, depending on the model’s specifications and other customizations that have been made to it prior to the installation of the kit.
As for JKS models, common wheel sizes include 17×9, 18×9 and 20×9 inches, with backspacing ranging from 4.5″ – 5″. Again, these limits may need to be adjusted if customizations have already been made to the vehicle before installation of either kit type.
Further, both manufacturers may suggest alternate tire/wheel sizes that could be beneficial for certain applications or desired outcomes. These should also be considered when selecting a specific kit size and type based on your individual needs and preferences.
Weight Capacity of the AEV And JKS Jeep Lift Kits
The AEV Jeep Lift Kit and JKS Jeep Lift Kit weight capacities can vary significantly, depending on which model you choose. The AEV lift kits offer a range of options from 0-250 lbs up to 400+ lbs depending on the model of kit chosen and how many components are included in the kit.
For example, some kits may include springs, shocks, and other suspension components that all add up to provide more weight capacity than just springs or shocks alone. In addition, some kits may also come with heavy-duty aftermarket wheels and tires, which can also increase the overall weight capacity.
In comparison, JKS lift kits tend to offer a slightly lower weight capacity than AEV lift kits due to their smaller size and lighter construction materials. Generally speaking, JKS offers lift kits with capacities ranging from around 300 lbs up to 500 lbs depending again on what components are included in each particular kit.
Note: Both companies offer optional upgrades, like heavy-duty suspensions and higher-load-rated wheels/tires, to further increase their respective capacities.
What Types of Suspension Does AEV And JKS Jeep Lift Kits Offer?
AEV and JKS offer various suspension lift kits for Jeep vehicles. AEV offers two primary types of lift kits for Jeep vehicles. These include the DualSport RT Suspension System, which uses 2.5”-4” lift coils with progressive rate bump stops to enhance off-road performance and provide better on-road ride quality.
This kit also includes the 3.5” Suspension Lift Kit, which provides up to 3.5” of added height while maintaining a great ride quality on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
Conversely, JKS offers several different lift kits providing varying levels of height gain, including the 1.25″ Budget Boost Kit, the 1.75″ Coil Springs & Shock Spacers kit, and their 2″ Spring & Shock Spacers kit.
Also, JKS offer their Long Arm Upgrade kit, which adds 6 inches of lift height to your current suspension system without sacrificing ride quality.
Note: The size range greatly depends on the make and model of the vehicle in addition to the lift size you choose.
Unlock New Levels of Adventure with AEV & JKS Lift Kits
For thrill-seekers looking to take their off-roading experience up a notch. AEV and JKS offer impressive lift kits that provide power without sacrificing comfort or control. With enhanced performance characteristics in tough terrain plus optimal durability and strength, they give you the extra boost needed for epic adventures.
It’s a tough call. Do you go with enhanced performance or the most practical option? The right choice ultimately comes down to your budget and individual taste. Whichever way you decide, expect an incomparable ride that will take on anything.