97 TJ: Update Priorities

[BrewCarry]

Bought my first Jeep: 97 TJ
I need help prioritizing what to update/replace first.

She has a 2.5l with a 5 speed @ 157k miles. I am the third owner. She has 2 inch spacers that I would like to upgrade to a 3 inch suspension lift. I plan to keep her on the road. I have given her a tune up, replaced the fuel tank skid plate, modded the fuel tank 15 gallons to a 19 gallon tank, replaced the rear parking brake cables (shredded), the front hubs, and replaced the dash and center console.

The PO didn't do much and I want to know what parts to prioritize to replace/update to start to resurrect her from her current state. She drives fine and the kids love her but i want to make her safer, more reliable, and be proactive considering her age and mileage.

My goal is a 3” lift (not sure what brand yet), 32s or 33s, and slowly update the interior and eventually a paint job.

I appreciate any and all suggestions.

 

[JustDandee]

What size tire are you running now? Have the axle gears been replaced to complement the tire size? Initial thoughts with the 4cyl that tire changes are going to impact your driving experience/ enjoyment. I t would be good to know where you are starting from and how that is working for you now.

 

[BrewCarry]

What size tire are you running now? Have the axle gears been replaced to complement the tire size? Initial thoughts with the 4cyl that tire changes are going to impact your driving experience/ enjoyment. I t would be good to know where you are starting from and how that is working for you now.

Thanks Dandee. I currently run a generic mud tire 32x11.5. The gears havent been replaces as far as I know.

 

[Danarch]

Did the tuneup include replacing the fluids and lube everything? If not that is what I’d do next.

 

[BrewCarry]

Did the tuneup include replacing the fluids and lube everything? If not that is what I’d do next.

Oil only for now. Good suggestion. Thank you.

 

[JustDandee]

Thanks Dandee. I currently run a generic mud tire 32x11.5. The gears havent been replaces as far as I know.

If your happy with what you got I would not go 3” suspension stay with the tire size- just my thoughts.

1. At 3” you start flirting with drive line vibes that will need to be chased. Can do 2” springs
2. If you want the look of three do a body lift for the addition amount as an option
3. I would try confirming gear ratios before considering going up you actually might find going to a 31 a better choice based on what you find out