if both of you are keeping the caps then just cut out the bad, pick up some sheet metal and make up a patch, weld or rivet it in, paint/protect it, throw caps back on....done and done for less than a C-note, and you learned something!

 

I plan on welding mine just got to get time.

 

Would be cheaper, that’s for sure.

 

Depends on how detailed you want to get and how much you want to spend. Also if the vehicle is going to the JY when you are done with it, maybe functional is better than pretty.I would get rid of the end caps. If you can weld, fine. I f not, you can attach panels with screws and body filler.

 

That's not hard to fix. You need a welder, some air tools (cut-off tool) and 20 ga steel.

Before you cut it out make a cardboard template of the shape. (or use the other side.). Then cut it out and start by welding in the back plate (you don't need to get as 'clean' in the back). Then cut a patch to match the area you cut out. I would personally butt-weld the new piece in but you could also tack a 1/2" wide strip on the back-side of the metal you're patching ...and lay the new patch over top of that strip. Sorry if I'm not explaining it well.

There are a lot of bodywork videos, ...a lot of them aren't professional at all ..but just get started.

 

You could also remove all the bad parts, and just rivet in the new piece, and it would covered by the bumper. That's a cheap quick fix. IF YOU can find a matching piece of panel
Personally, I would do the cut and fold. I hadn't seen that mod yet and I think it makes the Jeep look better. I may do it for the heck of it...

I cant believe Australia has those kind of restrictions when the ENTIRE country is probably good off-roading territory...

What if you have an off-road rig? Do you have to trailer it to your off roading destination?

 

You either have to pay to get it engineered, or find a regular mechanic who will certify it is roadworthy... each year in most States

It is possible to get an Jeep XJ certified for a 4" lift and 35" tyres, but it would be difficult to get one engineered much more than that and still be legal to drive on the road..

heavily modified/built vehicles have to be either approved by a licenced automotive engineer or trailered