So I got my first XJ...now what
 

So I got a 2001 sport a little while ago, its my first car and there are already tons of things I want to do to it. Buttt thats where I need help. Im on a very limited budget and this build will definately take me a while to start. I wanna get at least 31's or 32's and whatever lift is best for that without being too expensive, and that means I may need new axles...But Ive seen poeple say that youd be fine with stock axles if youe nlydoing light stuff not major crawling, any help is welcome. Thanks guys -Tyler

oh jeeze sorry about all the typos..I promise I have better grammar than that

Check out the 'edit' feature. It really works if you make a mistake and forget to proof read it

For starters, perhaps start with something mild, 31s and a budget lift with pucks & shackles or AALs. This will minimize the cost, and give you plenty of capability for most mild off road running. Combined with a cut-n-fold job and QD sway bar links, she'll gain enough flex to surprise you with what she can do. When you make the switch to 31s, get a set of wheels with less backspacing, kicking the tires out a bit helps keep your turning radius useable with the taller tires.

Beyond the budget lift, consider the terrain you contend with. Crawling of course calls for extreme flex, higher lift, long arms, etc. Mild trails & most mud can be handled by even the most basic XJs, while deep sloppy mud & steep climbs benefit from good lockers and gears, and of course the appropriate tires.

Good idea, I dont need it to be able to crawl or go in deep mud. Mostly easy trail and mountain trips. But I really do like a bit higher lift than that would call for, but I can always upgrade later on I suppose. Thanks for the advice TwistedWrench

Happy to help, here's the bible, give you an idea of the additional parts needed the higher you go.


https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.che...34585f9b55.jpg


And for any and all questions, and ideas for lift/wheel/tire combos, check this out;

https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f67/al...go-here-10579/

Your axle strength and capabilities depends on what you have under there. I would assume a Dana 30 front. There rear will most likely be a Dana 35 or Chrysler 8.25.

I have a 2000 Sport. I am running a 4.5" Rubicon Express Lift on 32" BFG M/Ts. I have not needed a SYE to this point, although I will do it soon because it is recommended. Every Jeep is different. Some must have SYE at anything over 3" and some don't.

I have the Dana 30 front and the Chrysler 8.25 rear. The 8.25 is comparable to the desired Dana 44. I have wheeled the mess out of it with no problems. Even if you have the weaker Dana 35 rear, you should be fine on 31-32" tires. Just don't hammer on it if you get hung up on a trail.

If you are only running light trails you should be fine. However, you will want to eventually try bigger and harder trails. It just comes with the territory.

Welcome to the Jeep life!

Thanks everyone. Big help!