brian0128

I decided to finally start a build thread even though I've already completed some of the work.

The plan is to build a capable daily driver that still gets driven 25k miles a year but can go off-road and hit the trails.

The plans for it include:
3.5 inch OME lift
SYE / Driveshaft
31/32 inch tires
Skids, sliders, and bumpers and whatever else comes along.

Here it is before modifications started in December of 2011.

N8-96XJ

Good lookin Jeep.

brian0128

So I ordered the Super Ultimate OME 3.5 Lift from Dirk over at DPG. I can't say enough about the level of customer service provided by him.

The kit came with everything needed to work as a system.
OME XJ Coils(2930)
OME Dual Rate Leaf Springs (CS033RB)
OME Front Long Travel Shocks(60052L)
OME Standard Lenth Rear Shocks(because I got the JKS Shock Mounts(60053))
JKS Disconnects (200D)
JKS Adj Trackbar (OGS126)
JKS Lower Adj Control Arms (6100)
RE SS Brakelines (RE1550)
1.75 in coil spacers(MO2532)
DPG HD Ubolts (DPG825U)
DPG Ext Bumpstops (DPGNHL2)
DPG Disco Cables (DPGDC1)
Leaf Bushings
JKS Weld On Shock Mounts (OGS922)
RE 4 Degree Shims (RE1467)

brian0128

I joined up here at the forum and met Justin (Dukie564) from Maryland and he offered to help me install the lift. I'm in the Army so I had access to the auto hobby shop on base so we tackled the project with the parts that have come in so far.

I'm still waiting on my JKS lower control arms and the JKS shock mounts but I wanted to get it on so I could take measurements for the new driveshaft.

brian0128

Of course I ended up breaking all 4 rear shock bolts but I also broke a front shock bolt, and had problems with the front leaf spring bolts as well but Justin was very knowledgeable and we were able to complete it without getting a torch or cutting tools out.

brian0128

I also broke a track bar bolt during the install but we found a bolt to use so we could finish it up and get it out of the shop since it is my daily driver.

Here it is with the basic lift installed. I still need to fine tune the lift but I am happy with the way it turned out. I found a set of Moab's on Craigslist and picked them up for a good price and decided to throw those on until I can find a set of black wheels and load range C tires that I like.

We took measurements of the drive shaft and I ordered an SYE from Tom Woods along with a new double cardan drive shaft. In the mean time, I pulled the stock one out and I'm driving with front wheel drive only.

brian0128

Control arms came in the 2nd week of January so I went to the shop and put them on. I'm having a few issues with the wheel base and the alignment since it is pulling to the right, but at least I was able to get the arms on. I ended up installing them with a 16 1/16 length eye to eye, but I missed the fact that there was a shim on the passenger side and it's still there. Even with a shim in the passenger side control arm bucket the driver's side wheel base is longer.

98sport4x4

its look good and clean so far! ill be following the progress

brian0128

So the thread is now all caught up. I'm patiently waiting on my Tom Woods DS and SYE to arrive so I can get that installed.

brian0128

Thanks. I'm looking forward to researching other builds and finding the next parts for the build.

Thank you. I try to keep it in good shape. It's got it's share of scratches from camping trips and I currently have a huge dent in the hatch that I either need to get repaired or get lucky and find a Forest Green hatch at the JY.

I can't really complain about the dent, because a lady backed into me with a stake bed truck and settled out of court for $1600 which was the money I used for the lift.

98sport4x4

at least its just a dent...could have been way worse. besides you may find a few more dents depending on where you wheel lol

brian0128

Yes I know. I had a rock leave dent on my rocker panel and I've got a few creases from tight trails including one right across my gas tank door. That doesn't even include all the "pinstriping" from going down tight trails when it was stock.

Right now my priorities are to install the read DS and SYE and a transmission cooler. The cooler is sitting here on my floor.

List of things to do:
Install transmission cooler
Install SYE and Tom Woods DS
Front recovery (tow hooks or a bumper)
Fix radio reception problem

Wish list:
Factory front skid
Factory gas tank skid
Powdercoated Sliders
CB
Gears
Electronic Locker

leecarr

I think Jeep should work on the same plan. Looks good.

brian0128

Had a box waiting for me when I got home. SYE and a Driveshaft. Try to see if I can get it installed this weekend and get some pics of the install.

jscusmcvet

Nice Jeep and quality build. Would like to see pics of the SYE install if you can. Also now that you are aligned and with the quality JKS parts, tell us about the ride and handling...

John