Hi, I'm new to Jeeps and off-roading but have been reading and learning on the forum for a while. I used to race cars on-road and am mechanically inclined, but have a big 4x4 learning curve ahead of me. I recently bought a 2001 TJ with 118k miles, 4.0L and 5-speed, Rough Country 3.5" lift kit with Bilstein 5100s, Dana 44 rear with Detroit posi and 30 front (no lockers), 4.88 gears, 35" Goodyear tires, front Anti-Rock, and some kind of fender flares I haven't ID'd yet (maybe Smittybilt). I already fixed a couple of things including a bump steer issue by replacing the drop Pitman arm with a stocker so it's now fun to drive. It does ride really rough but that seems common with RC lifts, so I'm at 20psi to help with that. It still has vague steering and definitely needs a track bar, but there's no death wobble. I plan to start by upgrading the steering, then the suspension, one area at a time until I get it where I want it.
What is the best order to approach the upgrades? Shocks first, then springs, or something else? It's a weekend toy so I am mostly looking for off-road capabilities for trail riding and ORV parks in the Pacific Northwest. I do still want it to ride and steer well on the road so my wife or daughters can drive it on the freeway and we are comfortable driving it to the fun areas. I like the idea of a lower CG build so I'm thinking 3.5" - 4" of lift and then highline fenders or whatever is needed to prevent rubbing. I will probably stick with the 35" tires. I like what I'm reading so far about Savvy, Currie, and Metalcloak but haven't picked a route yet. I don't mind investing money in quality parts, but am not sure yet how to go about getting the best performance and I need your advice.
Thanks for the help!
-Chad
What is the best order to approach the upgrades? Shocks first, then springs, or something else? It's a weekend toy so I am mostly looking for off-road capabilities for trail riding and ORV parks in the Pacific Northwest. I do still want it to ride and steer well on the road so my wife or daughters can drive it on the freeway and we are comfortable driving it to the fun areas. I like the idea of a lower CG build so I'm thinking 3.5" - 4" of lift and then highline fenders or whatever is needed to prevent rubbing. I will probably stick with the 35" tires. I like what I'm reading so far about Savvy, Currie, and Metalcloak but haven't picked a route yet. I don't mind investing money in quality parts, but am not sure yet how to go about getting the best performance and I need your advice.
Thanks for the help!
-Chad