So I finally took my (stock) 2000 wheeling a few times, and I think I know what I want now. Basically, no lift, but still capable. So, what can I do to make it more capable? I already removed the rear sway bar, and it has new shocks and tires. Skid plates? I don't have any, and while wheeling I noticed how little clearance I had... Maybe a locker?

 

Like a 2 or 3 inch lift could help.In armor t case skid gas tank skid and rock sliders should be top of the list.

 

no lift, but more clearance.. uhm, what?

cut the bajeezus out of your front fenders, comp cut the rear, stuff 32's under it and bumpstop it all to hell. flex will be crap, but you'll have no lift and more clearance

 

What kind of wheeling you wanting to do? If it's wanting to get off the beaten path a stock XJ with a few modifications can get you pretty far back. If your wanting to climb over things,cross rivers,mud boggs,etc your talking lifting or major trimming for taller tires and more underside clearence.

 

Remove the front sway bar, add factory skid plates, a rear locker, cut your fenders and add 30s or just aggressive 235s. There's a dude on here with a ex-forestry service rig that's stock suspension wise and he kills it offroad.

 

Don't forget recovery points front and back.

 

Skid plates and a rear locker would be good.

 

ARMOR, Lockers and recovery. Add a bit a fender trimming and some bump-stopping you can even go with some pretty big tires 31-33". Maybe do 2" if you do go with 32 or bigger, so that you will have some up travel.

 

^^This..

Maybe a small spacer up front and fresh leaf springs in the rear with extended shackle.. just enough to fit a slightly larger tire in there.

Then go enjoy it..

 

I know, I know, but the reason I don't really want to lift it (for awhile, anyways) is that I don't have the funds to do it how I would like (RE 3.5). I don't want to cheap out on anything, because this is my DD for a loooong time (I'm a senior in HS). However, I was looking at 2 inch lifts, but I couldn't find a full pack for the rear... I don't want shackles on my old springs... like I know OME has 2in leafs but I can't find them anywhere...

Anyways from what I'm hearing, I should buy some skids, possibly a rear locker, and I should look into 2in lifts. Thanks guys this is really helpful.