Jeep JL Wrangler 3.5" Game-Changer Suspension No Shock Edition Installation Instructions

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS IN FULL BEFORE BEGINNING INSTALLATION Questions? Call 916-631-8071

Product: JL Game Changer Suspension, No Shock Doc: II-A2225/A2235 | Rev G | 11/07/2025

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 will work) for brake lines
Cut-off disc and grinder (optional)
Electric drill with 1/2" drill bits

How to use this guide: This guide contains all steps for installation. Please read and follow the instructions in order, top to bottom.

Jeep model: Instructions may apply to multiple Jeep models but are labeled separately where appropriate.

Options: Because of the number of component options we offer, these instructions may contain steps that will not match your configuration. You can skip these steps.

Installation notes: Terms may be used in the body of the instructions that you may not be familiar with. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at the number below or email [email protected].

Questions? Call us at 916-631-8071, M–F 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM PST.

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, both for safety and to ensure the integrity of your suspension system during installation.

Front Axle Installation

Important Note

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

Important Note

MetalCloak does not recommend powder coating your True Dual Rate Coils. The baking process used 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.

Step 1: Remove Stock Components

1 Disconnect 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.

Important Note

The brake line on the lower front control arms (driver and passenger side) must be removed from the 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.).

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 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

Control arm length reference (measured eye-to-eye)
	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"

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.

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.

Coil Isolator Information Guide

Important Note

MetalCloak's suspension systems include a unique coil design that utilizes upper isolators to position the coil. The table below will help you identify where to install the isolators included with your kit. You must remove the stock isolators before installing the provided coil isolators. If you have any questions, give us a call at 916-631-8071.

Coil isolator installation locations by Jeep model
Isolator	Jeep Model	Installation Location(s)
Tall Isolator	JL Wrangler Non E-Torque	Upper Front Passenger
	JL Wrangler 4xE	Upper Front Driver & Passenger
	JL Wrangler Diesel	Upper Front Driver & Passenger
	JT Gladiator Diesel	Upper Front Driver & Passenger
Short Isolator	JK Wrangler (All Models)	Upper Front Driver & Passenger
	JL Wrangler E-Torque	Upper Front Driver & Passenger
	JL Wrangler Non E-Torque	Upper Front Driver
	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

Step 3: Install Coils and Bump Stops

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.

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 with a smaller drill bit and work your way up to 1/2".

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.

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.

Important Note

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

15 Select the appropriate screw length so the threads stick out of the bottom disks approximately 3/4". Assemble the bump stops inside the installed coil by feeding the 1/2" countersunk screw through the cover plate and threading it through 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 will begin to compress the disks.

Step 4: Install Outboard Shock Spacer & Shocks

17 Drill out the hole located on the bottom of the stock shock mount using a 3/8" drill bit or step bit.

18 Using the stock 10mm bolt, attach the outboard shock mount to the spring perch.

19 Place the outboard spacer on the stock shock mount so it aligns with the preexisting holes.

20 Install the lower shock mount bolt hand tight.

21 Install the spacer and stock hardware into the stock location and tighten using an 18mm socket and wrench.

22 Using a 14mm wrench and socket, tighten the lower shock mount bolt.

23 Tighten the factory 10mm bolt.

24 Using the stock hardware, install the top of the shock you have chosen.

25 Align the shock with the outboard shock mount.

26 Install the shock with the provided 1/2" bolt and flange lock nut.

27 Using a 19mm wrench and socket, tighten the 1/2" bolt and flange lock nut.

28 Secure the brake line bracket back onto the coil perch with a zip tie.

Step 5: Install Front Track Bar

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).

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 1/2" to bring the axle to center.

31 Fully tighten the stock hardware on both ends of the track bar using a 21mm socket and wrench, 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

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.

Important Note

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

35 Tighten the sway bar end links with an 18mm wrench for the factory hardware, and a 3/4" and 18mm wrench for the supplied hardware.

Step 7: Finalize Installation

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

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.

Rear Axle 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, using an 8mm socket wrench.

37 Using an 18mm socket and wrench, disconnect the stock shocks. Save all hardware.

Important Note

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

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

Control arm length reference (measured eye-to-eye)
	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"

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 rear, 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

Use this option if your kit includes a sway bar drop bracket.

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

Use this option if your kit includes a sway bar spacer instead of a drop bracket.

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 onto the sway bar.

59 Install the lower sway bar end link into the stock location using the stock hardware.

Step 6: Install Rear RockSport Shocks

60 Using the stock hardware, install the top of the shock you have chosen.

61 Using the stock hardware, install the lower part of the shock into the stock location.

Step 7: Install Rear Bump Stops

Each bump stop puck has two sets of mounting holes — one for the driver side and one for the passenger side — plus two labeled faces (Side A and Side B) that let you stack pucks to fine-tune bump stop height.

62 Install the first bump stop puck (Side A) into the correct holes for your side using the 5/16" bolt with the matching nut and washer.

63 Install the next puck (Side B) using the 1-3/4" wood screws.

64 Continue stacking pucks (Side A / Side B / Side A / Side B) until you reach the desired bump stop height.

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 upward, toward 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 3.5" Game-Changer Suspension, No Shock Edition

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Tools & Notes on Installation

Front Axle Installation

Step 1: Remove Stock Components

Step 2: Install Control Arms

Coil Isolator Information Guide

Step 3: Install Coils and Bump Stops

Step 4: Install Outboard Shock Spacer & Shocks

Step 5: Install Front Track Bar

Step 6: Install Sway Bar End Links

Step 7: Finalize Installation

Rear Axle 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

Step 6: Install Rear RockSport Shocks

Step 7: Install Rear Bump Stops

Step 8: Re-route E-Brake

Step 9: Finalize

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