Which way should I go with my TJ?

So after getting the 2015 JKUR rigged up and just about were we want it for now, its time to focus on the TJ. Over the last few months I have been reading, researching and trying to decide exactly which way I want to go with this rig. Its a 2006 currently on a no name budget boost that PO had installed and 31x10.5x15s..4.0L with 6 speed manual. Open Dana 30/35 and 3.07 rears. I don't want to make it a rock crawler, but I want to be capable enough to go where I want within reason.

Pretty sure I'm going to stay with the 31's, at least for the foreseeable future. So I'm thinking 2.5 lift, probably a OME kit. Right front fender is boogered up from a deer I hit a few years ago..I really like the Metal Cloak Overline fenders, figure if I go up to 33's at some point then can get away with it with out having to go higher on a lift with the extra clearance. Any advice on 2-2.5 lifts and what I should consider as far as track bars, control arms, ect... I have read alot of good things about Rock Jock sway bars.

I can't decide what to do about rear axle??? Do I go up to a Dana 44 and which gear ratio??? Built Dana 35 and gears??? Locker rear only? What should I do about front axle. These the things that I can't decide which way to go...

Not alot of TJs in my area that I can talk to others about and see in person. I have read and read and read..still kinda lost HELP!!!!! LOL

Jerry Bransford said:

Since you want to keep your Dana 35 and you want to install only a rear locker you'll need to install a Super35 kit from Revolution Gear & Axle to make it strong enough for a locker. Stock, a Dana 35 is absolutely not strong enough for a locker while offroading. You have a choice of several lockers that come with their Super35 kit. Don't buy a cheap knock-off Super 35, the shafts must be 30 spline 1541H heat treated steel. Some knockoffs only provide 27 spline shafts and they're not strong enough.

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Thanks for those specifics sir. Currently on their website only the ARB air Locker is available, which I'm fine with. What gears would you recommend?

Jerry Bransford said:

You can also get an Eaton E-Locker or Detroit Locker, at least when they're available.

Gear-ratio wise, that depends on what tire size you want to run and which transmission your JKUR has. And I know nothing about JK transmissions or their ratios, that's not a beast I have become involved with lol. Its engine and transmissions apparently allow higher axle ratios than what our TJs require.

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The JKUR has Dana 44's front and back and E lockers..mine has a 3.73 rear end and is just about perfect for what we do.

The TJ on the other hand is Dana 35t in the rear and open..has 3.07 gears, Its the 6 speed manual transmission, I can never remember the model number on it. I really like you Super 35 recommendation...I'm not planning on ever going over 33's, but just not sure which gears to go with in the rear end.