98CheroXJ

I just bought a 98 cherokee and I need some help getting started. I would like to build a dd with 35's, 6.5 lift w LA,sye, swap to 8.8, keep dana 30(lunchbox locker), frame stiffeners, steering upgrade,rock sliders. The vehicle is currently stock, auto np231 and 8.25 rear end. I plan on doing rock crawling but would like to drive it there. The trails I want to run require 35's. I want to get started and have it finished by next spring, maybe sooner. I am on a budget. What would you recommend first?

gunmetal_nightrider

Well you have a goal, thats always good for keeping within budget. If you had a whole weekend and the skills, do the axle swap, the lift, and the SYE all at once. Then do the LAs and other body work as you see fit. Budget for new gears too unless you want to get gallons per mile lol.

Organize, plan, execute.
Find out manufacturer for all your components you want, prices and shipping for them too. Find your 8.8 first. Your build seems to revolve around that. Your budget must be pretty high if you want to do all these things.