I bought the WJ to build a fully capable off road rig, to serve as a toy and replace my 76 Cherokee and go where the Tahoe shouldn't go. And to do it in luxury to keep Yvonne interested in being the copilot. But I like driving the thing so much and now regret not buying one when they were relatively new. I have put more miles on it than intended as I experienced the vehicles on-road niceties and off road capabilities. So the mod target has changed a bit over the last year.
The overall plan is 3 phased-
1) Shake it out and repair as necessary-
Change all fluids, spark plugs, brakes, rebuild drivelines, replace window regulators, change axle bearings, fix pinion seal leak, etc. All the usual stuff to make up for the defered maintenance of the previous owner. I now am reasonably comfortable with it's reliability. But it is a Jeep, so fixing stuff will never end.
2) Optimize what is there (budget boost) and cover the weak spots-
I decided the end goal is a 3" or 3 1/2 inch lift. So all optimization has been setting me up for this. New 3" lift Rancho shocks, front sway bar disconnects, extending the rear sway bar end links, ongoing tuning of bumpstops, upgraded track bar, change cooling setup to get rid of hydraulic fan, add radiator protection (Goliath front skid), install strengthened D44HD. And little things like Panavice mounts for the dash, mount fire extinguisher, remove electric seat setup for less weight and room under the front seats, remove 10 CD changer and store first aid kit, and so on.
3) Mod it-
IRO 3" lift springs, 1/2 inch spacers, front IRO long arm, rear adjustable lower trailing arms, IRO skid plate, and eventually a tank tuck and maybe rock sliders. 32" tires on Wrangler 16" steel wheels, front bumper trim, and some sort of added off road lighting. If I can pull it off cleanly, will also add on-board air.
Since I enjoy driving the WJ on road as well, the plan is based on keeping it daily driveable. This includes keeping tabs on mpg, stability, comfort, and weight. No roof rack, I make use of the factory rails and add gas cans and other items as needed for each planned adventure. No cargo rack or other permanent slides, drawers, or the like inside. Oversized spare tire will go on a KOR roof mount when I need the cargo space. I use bins and duffle bags, again outfitting for each trip. I have worked out kits I store in the garage and a loading strategy for the WJ. Grab what I need, strap it in, and go! I have multiple vehicles, and many different types of adventures, so this is what works for me. I may be overlanding, hunting and base camping for 10 days, headed out on a day trip with recovery gear only, or cooking a family brunch at Pismo beach. So a fixed set up does not work FOR ME. Your results may vary!
