This is what my build sheet says about my axles...You likely have either a corporate 8.25 or D35 rear axle. No D30 for the rear.

 

Okay cool well it defiantly is a 3.55 rear axle from factory assuming someone didn't already regear it which I doubt. If they went with a budget lift I wouldn't think they spend the cash on gearing.

The 8.25 is what I really want huh? Either way gearing will change later down the road. I got some friends who can do that probably for nothing or a case a beer lol so it will just cost me the parts.

 

So no thoughts from anyone about running a 1 ton steering system? Serious Offroad has the kit for $300+ figured might be worth getting but would it really be ideal for mild off road use but also something that I could say is done now instead of waiting until later and wish I had it? I know it will require drilling out my knuckles some but I'm okay with that. I need other items before I make the purchase but just wanted to get those who are running it opinions and then those who don't why you didn't?

 

I didn't pull the trigger on track bar and bracket yet but I will this week. Just waiting on a couple things just incase I need to spend that extra cash on something else. Aside from shocks I will have everything I need for front end lift. Wait one more thing do i need a drop pitman arm? That and yes I have brake lines already tabbed to order and also the track bar brace.

 

Wish I could help you with these questions my friend, but I have absolutely no personal experience with lifts on these.

 

Well turns out I was able to make the purchase so I just bought RE Track Bar 1660 and bracket from Serious Offroad so in a week or two they should be arriving to the house. Next up brake lines, brace for track bar and shocks. Then I can finish up the rear parts.

 

Your fine I'm hoping others will help too!

 

Have you read the stickied thread, "I just bought a new XJ, now what?"

https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f46/i-...w-what-239167/

I wouldn't spend thousands on lift parts before you're able to see the Jeep and go through it and figure out what it actually needs to become a reliable, road worthy vehicle. Due to the age of these vehicles, they always have at least some sort of issue that requires attention. With mine, every time I would buy a fun part for my Jeep, another different part would poop the bed and need replacement. My Jeep was in my family for the majority of its 20 years of life, but I still had to change wheel bearings, seals, the entire heating system and all the fluids, window switches, window motors, motor mounts and a ton of other stuff to just get it back to a stock from the factory level of reliability.

I understand you want to start acquiring the fun parts, but just make sure you save enough for the repairs that it will definitely need here at some point. I'm looking forward to seeing more of your build.

 

Thanks for the kind words! I do not plan on getting that 1 ton steering system right now. It was a thought and still is a thought but yes I have a seperate funds account specifically for the general stuff that I need to get done on the Jeep. I got my hands full on that area which is expected for a vehicle of 20 years old. I have also read through that thread link you sent over it has much great information for those who are just starting out. I have owned well over 20 vehicles in my days of being able to drive and none of my vehicles except one turned out to be a pile of ****. By that I mean because I take a lot of pride and ownership in my cars/trucks no matter how old or what condition they are in and will most certainly bring this one back to life.

The money I spent so far is my extra cash saved up for the goodies!! But your right there are people out there who don't realize that and end up putting $k's of dollars into a vehicle for looks and performance but neglect the basic like a oil change. That and I'm a mechanic by family history and hobby so I have no issues turning a wrench on my own vehicles.

 

Slow and steady process that is for sure! This is a project and I knew that going into it. If for any reason I feel as if I would be dumping more $ into it than I would be willing to absorb I will just stop while I'm ahead and part it out.

My goal is this spring/summer start wheeling it but if that does not work in my favor then I have no issues with it taking longer. I still have a Wife and 4 kids plus full time job so this will take time and last on my priority once I get home.

 

Right direction.

So many people out there paying a laborer to the physical work in their garden yet they say they need a gym membership to stay in shape.

 

Well said. I am sure you know what you're doing and not trying to doubt your expertise, just wanted to mention it just in case. I have had a lot of unexpected expenses with mine, so just wanted to throw it out there. Like I said before, look forward to seeing what you do to your rig.

 

Hey Irish, I believe someone above suggested confirming what bits and pieces you really need as you go through the build, rather than trying to anticipate and spending a bunch of money up front. Wise advice, and as I mentioned to you in another thread Olympic 4X4 is right in your back yard. They've got pretty much everything you could possibly need on the shelf (or in the graveyard out back). I'm doing an XJ build with my daughter right now, and we've been running down there every few days as another part becomes needed.

 

Totally understand. At this point I have everything just saved ready to order if I need to. With all the information on here I will not justify spending any more money on parts until I get back home and check out Olympic 4x4 just incase they have stuff I need and not waste money on brand new stuff. Thanks again for that lead on good parts there.

You got a build on your daughter and yours XJ? Like are you documenting it on here or just building and maybe do that later?

 

Thanks and I apprieciate your replies as well as your advice. I too look forward to the progess on this Jeep. The wait is killing me but I will just have to suck it up and wait a little longer