Most agree that Jeep "wrote the book on 4 wheel drive"; hardcore offroaders acknowledge that Black Diamond has added a few new chapters. The Xtreme Coil Link (XCL) system is not your average "run of the mill" suspension. Unlike any other suspension system on the planet, the XCL is a round trip ticket to rock crawling bliss. Where most so-called "performance" suspension systems are designed to heavily modify the factory set-up, the XCL wipes the slate clean and begins from scratch. The XCL replaces all of the factory suspension components under a Jeep YJ or CJ with a long travel coilover shock / multi- link suspension design.

The conversion starts with a new skid pan (often called a belly pan) that replaces the factory transmission / transfer case mount, and serves as the anchor point for new links that locate the front and rear axles. The front axle is located by long, radius-arm style links (one per side) that attach above and below axle centerline via weld-on brackets. A new track bar locates the axle left-to-right. New coilover shock towers attach to the frame where the factory shock mounts were, while the lower coilover mounts are welded to the axle. All of this provides enough free movement for the suspension to make full use of the 30.75" long coilover shocks.

The rear suspension differs slightly from the front; the design consists of four trailing links (two upper, two lower), similar in concept to a factory Jeep TJ. The upper links connect to a weld-on axle truss that also strengthens the axle housing. A new frame crossmember captures the upper ends of the 23.5" long rear coilovers.

The base XCL system kit is made up of five part numbers: a front kit, center kit, rear kit and front / rear coil springs. Which specific front and rear kits are needed depends on your axle types. The choice of coil springs is dictated by the Jeep's trail weight. If your vehicle is equipped with a NP-231 transfer case, Black Diamond's Slip Yoke Eliminator Kit is required. Our optional rear anti-sway bar is strongly recommended if the vehicle is also used on-road.

XCL system installation requires extensive cutting and welding, and the ability to precisely measure and properly locate numerous components. Black Diamond strongly recommends that the installation only be performed by a qualified professional mechanic. If you have any concerns as to your installer's ability to tackle this complex project, call Black Diamond (1-800-521-4955) for an installation booklet and video.

XCL lift height will vary from 4" to 5.5" depending on Jeep weight, which coil spring rate is selected, and how the coilover assembly is adjusted. When contemplating tire and wheel choices, remember that the XCL provides a tremendous amount of wheel travel. When articulating offroad, the suspension will literally stuff the tires into the wheel wells. Generally, a 12.50" (wide) series tire on an 8" wide wheel does a good job of clearing the fender openings; anything wider really scrubs the fenders unless the openings are modified / enlarged.

On the subject of tire height, the XCL system alone clears most 33" diameter tires. Add a 1" to 2" tall body lift and clear most 35" tall tires.