Jeep JL Wrangler 2.5" Game-Changer Suspension, RockSport Black Edition Installation Instructions

Read All Instructions in Full Before Beginning Installation Questions? Call 916-631-8071 M–F 7:00 AM–5:00 PM PST

The MetalCloak experience includes the ease of installation of our products. We design for most contingencies, but installation may be different based on your Jeep's condition, configuration, and/or year. We are continually trying to improve our products and instructions — please help us by providing feedback and pictures if you find any part of the instructions that do not match your particular Jeep or are not easily understandable. If you have any difficulties at all, please give us a call. Thank you and enjoy your MetalCloak products!

Warranty Information:

This article is sold without warranty expressed or implied. No warranty or representation is made as to this product's ability to protect the user from injury or death. The user assumes that risk. The effectiveness, warranty, and longevity of this equipment are directly related to the manner in which it is installed, used, and/or maintained. The user assumes all risk. By purchasing this product and opening the packaging, purchasers expressly acknowledge, understand, and agree that they take, select, and purchase these MetalCloak products from Armored Works, LLC, its affiliates, distributors, and agents as-is and with all faults. The entire risk as to the quality and performance of these MetalCloak products is with the purchaser. Working on your vehicle can be a dangerous activity. If you are unsure of what you are doing, please leave mechanical or safety-critical work to a skilled mechanic. We take no responsibility for the incorrect use and/or installation of MetalCloak products.

Tools & Notes on Installation

This list is the recommended tools for ease of installation. Other versions of the same tool can be used — for example, Allen wrenches instead of Allen drive sockets. Be sure to use metric on metric and SAE on SAE.

Socket & Ratchet Wrench
Set of SAE & Metric Sockets & Wrenches
Metric Hex Sockets and/or Hex (Allen) Wrenches
Metal Head Hammer
10″ Socket Extension
3/8″ Flare Nut Wrench (10mm) for Brake Lines
Cut-Off Disc and Grinder (Optional)
Electric Drill with 1/2″ Drill Bits

Important Note:

How to use this guide: This installation guide contains all steps for installation. Please read and follow the instructions in order, from top to bottom and left to right. Instructions may apply to multiple Jeep models but are labeled separately where appropriate. Because of the number of component options MetalCloak offers, these instructions may contain steps that will not match your configuration — you can skip those steps. Terms used in the instructions that you may not be familiar with can be clarified by our tech help team at [email protected] or by calling 916-631-8071, M–F 7:00 AM–5:00 PM PST.

Important Note:

MetalCloak does not recommend powder coating your True Dual Rate Coils. The baking process in powder coating can, in some cases, change the metallurgical properties of the coils, resulting in a loss of the coils' lift properties. Powder coating the coils will void any warranty stated or implied in relation to the coils.

Important Note:

To install lift components you will need to fully "droop" your suspension in the front and rear (not at the same time). We strongly recommend that the vehicle be placed on an automotive lift and that all appropriate safety precautions be taken to secure the vehicle while it is off the ground. Always use the necessary axle stands (or equivalent) to support the axle when the suspension components are disconnected, for safety and to ensure the integrity of your suspension system during the installation process.

Important Note:

MetalCloak recommends replacing the factory drive shaft. The factory drive shaft binds at the transfer case side and is too short for the additional travel provided by this system. An aftermarket drive shaft clears the transfer case and is optimal for maximum travel.

Front Suspension Installation

Step 1: Remove Stock Components

Important Note:

The brake line on the lower front control arms (driver and passenger side) must be removed from its bracket. It may be pried out or cut — be VERY careful not to damage the brake line.

Important Note:

To help prevent strain on the brake lines, MetalCloak recommends clipping all zip ties attached to the brake lines.

Important Note:

Disconnect any electronics attached to the axle (locker plug, front axle disconnect plug, etc.).

1. Disconnect the front sway bar links using an 18mm wrench and 6mm Allen wrench. Save all hardware.
2. Using a 10mm socket, disconnect the brake line brackets that are attached to the frame. Save all hardware.
3. Using a 21mm socket, disconnect the stock track bar. Save all hardware.
4. Use an 18mm socket and wrench to remove the shocks. Save all hardware.
5. Remove the stock springs, and any spacers that have been used if the vehicle has been previously lifted.
6. Disconnect the upper control arm heat shield on both sides at the frame using a 10mm socket. Save the heat shields and all hardware.

Step 2: Install Control Arms

Important Note:

These control arm specifications are just starting points, measured eye to eye. All Jeeps are different. MetalCloak recommends seeing a suspension specialist for the correct control arm lengths for your Jeep.

Important Note:

MetalCloak recommends installing one control arm at a time. Loosening — but not removing — all control arm bolts first will make removal easier.

Control Arm Specifications
	Castor Angle	Front Upper	Front Lower	Rear Upper	Rear Lower
Factory Control Arms	Stock	20 1/4″	24″	17 1/2″	20″
MetalCloak Lift	6 Degrees	19 3/4″	24″	17 1/2″	20 1/8″

7. Use a 24mm socket & wrench to remove the stock bolts from the front lower control arms. Save all hardware.
8. Install the Front Lower Control Arms so that the adjustable joint is in the rear, and the arm angles inboard to provide tire turning clearance.
9. Using an 18mm wrench and socket, remove the Front Upper Control Arms. Save all hardware.
10. Install the MetalCloak Front Upper Control Arm using the stock hardware.

Step 3: Install Coils and Bump Stops

Important Note:

MetalCloak's suspension systems include a unique coil design that utilizes upper isolators to position the coil. You must remove the stock isolators before installing the provided coil isolators. If you have any questions, call 916-631-8071.

Important Note:

Droop your suspension to gain access to the spring perch. Be sure to watch the ABS lines so they do not get over-extended and break.

Important Note:

If the axle does not droop enough to allow the coil to be put in place, a coil compressor can be used to compress the coil to allow fitment.

Important Note:

Your individual build may require an addition or removal of bump stop pucks for your tire size fitment.

Coil Isolator Jeep Locations
Isolator Type	Jeep Model	Installation Locations
Tall Isolator	JL Wrangler Non E-Torque	Upper Front Passenger
Tall Isolator	JL Wrangler 4xE	Upper Front Driver & Passenger
Tall Isolator	JL Wrangler Diesel	Upper Front Driver & Passenger
Tall Isolator	JT Gladiator Diesel	Upper Front Driver & Passenger
Short Isolator	JK Wrangler (All Models)	Upper Front Driver & Passenger
Short Isolator	JL Wrangler E-Torque	Upper Front Driver & Passenger
Short Isolator	JL Wrangler Non E-Torque	Upper Front Driver
Short Isolator	JT Gladiator 3.6L Motor	Upper Front Driver & Passenger
Rear Isolator	JL Wrangler Non-E Torque	Upper Rear Passenger
Rear Isolator	JL Wrangler 4xE	Upper Rear Driver & Passenger

11. Using a 10mm socket, disconnect the bracket from the spring perch on the axle.
12. Drill out the center hole using a step bit, or start your hole with a smaller drill bit and work your way up to 1/2″.
13. Install the front coils. Make sure the tightly wound coils are oriented upward.
14. Slip the bottom of the coil onto the coil base on the axle. Rotate the coil until it is seated properly on the coil base.
15. Select the appropriate screw length so that the threads stick out of the bottom disks approximately 3/4″. Assemble your bump stops inside the installed coil by feeding the 1/2″ countersunk screw through the cover plate and then the bump stop disks. The center hole in the disk is intentionally small to create the most rigid assembly possible after installation.
16. The 1/2″ screw is backed by a 1/2″ flanged nylon lock nut. Install the nut and tighten the hardware using a 5/16″ hex key socket or Allen wrench and a 3/4″ wrench. Tighten until everything is tight; the hardware will not bottom out but instead will begin to compress the disks.

Step 5: Install Front Track Bar

Important Note:

Check side to side for axle center and adjust the track bar as necessary. Shortening the track bar will pull the body/frame to the passenger side, showing more tire outside of the driver side fender. Lengthening the track bar will push the body/frame to the driver side, showing less tire outside of the driver side fender. When measuring side to side, one half of the distance measured is the amount to adjust the track bar to get to center. For example, if the tire sticks out 1″ more on the driver side, it would be necessary to lengthen the track bar by roughly ½″ to bring the axle to center.

29. Install the front track bar with the adjustable end at the axle mount. Loosely install the factory bolt and flag nut previously removed.
30. Install the welded end of the track bar at the frame bracket, making sure the bend in the bar goes up and over the top of the differential cover. Loosely install the factory bolt and nut previously removed (see note below).
31. Fully tighten the stock hardware on both ends of the track bar using a 21mm socket and wrench, and then tighten the jam nut on the track bar.
32. MetalCloak strongly recommends having your alignment checked by a professional after changing any suspension components.

Step 6: Install Sway Bar End Links

Important Note:

MetalCloak recommends using red Loctite on each of the upper spindles of the sway bar end links.

33. Using the factory hardware, install the bottom of the MetalCloak extended sway bar links.
34. Using the supplied hardware, install the top of the MetalCloak extended sway bar links.
35. Tighten the sway bar end links with an 18mm wrench for the factory hardware and a 3/4″ & 18mm wrench for the supplied hardware.

Step 7: Finalize Installation

Important Note:

When lifting any vehicle, basic dynamics are changed. It is important to take your vehicle to a professional for an alignment after installation. Make sure the caster setting is adjusted for a lifted vehicle (not stock specs).

36. Adjust the caster angle and toe as needed. Once set, tighten all hardware, re-attach all brackets, and reinstall the heat shield. Finally, tighten the jam nuts on all control arms.

Rear Suspension Installation

Step 1: Remove Stock Components

Important Note:

MetalCloak recommends removing the bottom rear fender well plate for easier access to the upper shock bolts by using an 8mm socket wrench.

Important Note:

Disconnect any electronics attached to the axle (locker plug, etc.).

37. Using an 18mm socket and wrench, disconnect the stock shocks. Save all hardware.
38. Disconnect the brake line brackets and E-brake cable on the axle to help allow for full droop.
39. Disconnect the rear sway bar links using an 18mm wrench and 6mm Allen wrench. Save all hardware.
40. Using a 21mm socket and wrench, disconnect the stock rear track bar. Save all hardware.
41. Remove the stock coils.

Step 2: Install Control Arms

Important Note:

MetalCloak recommends installing one control arm at a time. Loosening — but not removing — all control arm bolts first will make removal easier.

42. Use a 21mm socket & wrench to remove the stock bolts from the rear lower control arms. Save all hardware.
43. Using the stock hardware, install the Rear Lower Control Arms so that the adjustable joint is at the frame.
44. Using a 21mm wrench and socket, remove the Rear Upper Control Arms. Save all hardware.
45. Install the Rear Upper Control Arms so that the adjustable joint is in the front, and the arm angles inboard to provide maximum tire clearance.

Step 3: Install Rear Coils

46. If the axle does not droop enough to allow the coil to be put in place, a coil compressor can be used to compress the coil to allow fitment.
47. Place the Rear Coil Cup on top of the Rear Dual Rate Coil.
48. Install the rear Dual Rate Coils with the tightly wound coils oriented upward.
49. Slip the bottom of the coil onto the coil base on the axle.

Step 4: Install MetalCloak Track Bar

50. Install the MetalCloak Track Bar using the stock hardware. Tighten all hardware using a 21mm socket and wrench.

Step 5: Sway Bar – Option 1

51. Using a 15mm socket, remove the sway bar from the vehicle. Save all hardware.
52. Using an 18mm socket, install the 4-inch drop bracket in the sway bar's stock location using the factory hardware.
53. When reinstalling the rear sway bar, flip the sway bar so the driver side becomes the passenger side and the passenger side becomes the driver side.
54. Using the provided hardware, attach the sway bar to the drop bracket and tighten with a 14mm socket and wrench.
55. Install the sway bar end links to the sway bar.

Step 5: Sway Bar – Option 2 (Alternative)

Important Note:

Choose Option 1 or Option 2 for your sway bar installation — not both.

56. Using a 15mm socket, remove the sway bar mount hardware.
57. Install the sway bar spacer and tighten the provided hardware using a 17mm socket.
58. Install the extended sway bar end links on the sway bar.
59. Install the lower sway bar end link into the stock location using the stock hardware.

Step 6: Install Rear RockSport Black Shocks

60. Install the rear RockSport Black Shocks using the factory hardware, making sure the reservoir is facing rearward.
61. Tighten the shock hardware with an 18mm socket and wrench.

Step 7: Install Rear Bump Stops

62. Install the first bump stop puck (Side A) using the correct holes with the 5/16″ bolt and matching nut and washer.
63. Install the next puck (Side B) using the 1¾″ wood screws.
64. Continue alternating Side A / Side B / Side A / Side B until the desired bump stop height is reached.

Step 8: Re-Route E-Brake

65. Disconnect the E-brake cables from the brake backing plate.
66. Disconnect the E-brake cables from the cable bracket.
67. Re-route the E-brake cables under the crossmember.
68. Reconnect the E-brake cable to the cable bracket.
69. Reconnect the E-brake cable to the brake backing plate.

Step 9: Finalize

Important Note:

After re-installing the rear brake line bracket, bend the brake line bracket in the rear upwards towards the frame to allow slack for extra droop.

70. Adjust the caster angle and toe as needed. Once set, tighten all hardware and reattach all brake line brackets. Finally, tighten the jam nuts on all control arms.

Installation Instructions: Jeep JL Wrangler 2.5" Game-Changer Suspension, RockSport Black Edition

Tools & Notes on Installation

Front Suspension Installation

Step 1: Remove Stock Components

Step 2: Install Control Arms

Step 3: Install Coils and Bump Stops

Step 4: Install RockSport Black Front Shocks

Step 5: Install Front Track Bar

Step 6: Install Sway Bar End Links

Step 7: Finalize Installation

Rear Suspension Installation

Step 1: Remove Stock Components

Step 2: Install Control Arms

Step 3: Install Rear Coils

Step 4: Install MetalCloak Track Bar

Step 5: Sway Bar – Option 1

Step 5: Sway Bar – Option 2 (Alternative)

Step 6: Install Rear RockSport Black Shocks

Step 7: Install Rear Bump Stops

Step 8: Re-Route E-Brake

Step 9: Finalize

Questions About Your Installation?