Tuff Country 42700 Lift Kit for CJ5/CJ7: 2–4 Inches

Upgrade Your CJ5 or CJ7 with the Tuff Country 42700 Lift Kit

Classic Jeeps like the CJ5 and CJ7 are built for adventure, but factory ride height often limits tire choices and off‑road capability. If you want more ground clearance without sacrificing a comfortable daily ride, you’re not alone. The right lift kit can give you room for bigger tires and improved articulation, while keeping the ride feel close to stock. The Tuff Country 42700 lift kit is designed specifically for 1976–1983 CJ5 and CJ7 models, offering either a 2 inch or up to 4 inch lift with no shocks included.

Before you dive in, it helps to understand what you’re getting. This kit is built on Tuff Country’s EZ‑Ride suspension approach, which aims to preserve a factory‑like ride even after you gain additional clearance. It ships with a complete mounting hardware kit and brackets, so installation is straightforward for a weekend warrior with basic tools.

The construction uses sturdy steel components, ready to handle both daily driving and off‑road excursions. And with a limited lifetime warranty, you’re covered for the long haul.

What makes the Tuff Country 42700 lift kit stand out

Key to this kit is choice and compatibility. You can select a 2 inch lift for a modest bump in clearance, or push the setup toward 4 inches for bigger tires and more aggressive off‑road performance. Since shocks are not included, you can pair the kit with your preferred shock configuration to tune ride quality and damping to your liking. The engineered geometry helps maintain steering and suspension angles, so daily driving remains calm and predictable.

In addition to the rubber of the tires, the kit’s hardware kit and mounting brackets are designed for a bolt‑in installation. That makes this an accessible upgrade for CJ5 and CJ7 owners who want a reliable upgrade path without a full suspension overhaul.

Compatibility and installation notes

The 42700 is specifically engineered for 1976–1983 CJ5 and CJ7 models. That means you’ll be working with correct geometry, spring rates, and attachment points—key factors for off‑road stability and predictable handling. The lack of shocks means you can tailor your setup to your preferred shocks and overall ride feel, whether you prioritize articulation, highway manners, or a balanced compromise.

Bolt‑in installation keeps things approachable for DIY enthusiasts. While the kit lays a solid foundation for improved tire clearance, consider your current drivetrain components and axles, and plan for periodic alignment checks after installation to maintain even tire wear and steering precision.

Choosing the right lift height for your CJ

Two inches is often enough to open up fender clearance for modest tire upgrades, preserve a comfortable ride, and keep steering geometry close to stock. If you’re chasing more aggressive off‑road capability, the 4 inch option widens the gap further for larger tires and more ground clearance. Remember that tire size, wheel backspacing, and suspension travel all influence rubbing, articulation, and drivability. With the 42700, you can tailor your Jeep to your exact off‑road needs while still enjoying a ride that doesn’t feel like a completely different vehicle.

Cross‑brand context: what else is out there

When you shop for lift kits for other brands, you’ll see options labeled as Chevy lift kits, Ford lift kits, GMC lift kits, or Toyota lift kits. There are many brands offering similar performance upgrades, and some dealers publish rough country lift kit reviews to help buyers compare ride quality and value. For CJ Jeeps, the Tuff Country kit is engineered with Jeep geometry in mind, aiming to preserve a factory‑like ride while delivering extra clearance. If you’re weighing your options across brands, it’s worth noting that the goal of most reputable kits is to balance ground clearance, ride quality, and reliable fitment. While Rough Country and other brands may be strong contenders in their own right, the CJ5/CJ7‑specific fit and EZ‑Ride approach of the 42700 provide a clean, Jeep‑focused upgrade path.

Installation realities and maintenance tips

Expect a straightforward bolt‑in process, with mechanical basics like lifting, supporting the frame, and reattaching control arms or brackets as required by the kit. After installation, schedule a wheel alignment to ensure proper toe and camber, especially if you’ve chosen the higher 4 inch option. Periodic inspections of mounting hardware and bushings will help preserve ride quality and safety as you log dirt roads and highway miles alike.

The warranty and long‑term value

Durability matters when you’re hitting rough trails and everyday roads. The 42700 lift kit is backed by a limited lifetime warranty, giving you extra peace of mind that your investment is protected as you explore more challenging terrain and tackle everyday driving.

Final thoughts

If you own a CJ5 or CJ7 and want more tire clearance without sacrificing ride quality, the Tuff Country 42700 lift kit offers a thoughtful balance of performance and practicality. Its jeep‑specific geometry, bolt‑in installation, and lifetime warranty make it a compelling option for those who want to go a little higher while keeping the dependable ride that makes CJ Jeeps so enjoyable to drive.