Adding modern Rubicon Wheels33 tires /- lift question

[rxthurm]

Hello there,

Current new to me TJ set up- 2005 X, 4 L I6, 4sp auto, 3.73 rear axle ratio, D 30 on the front and Dana M35 on the rear, set of Dick Cepeck specials w/ 32x11.5R15LT, NO lift, used for in town driving only.

I am wanting to replace the wheels with the modern rubicon ones seen in attached photo. They are 17x7.5. I am wanting to use 33" tires and understand that I will need to likely install a lift to accomplish that. I also understand that I will need to use wheel adapters to fit 5x5 bolt pattern. With that said....

- Would you recommend 2, 2.5, 3 inch lift? I read the Beginner's Guide to a lift on this website, and I'm seeing that I would need to add an SYE to any of those size, but are there any other pros/cons I should be thinking about?
- As far as gearing, will the 3.73 be sufficient? If i'm only driving in town, will that make a difference?

Thanks for everyone's input. I can add or clarify things if needed.

 

[Cornbread]

Nice looking wheels! What width 33's you plan on running? 10.5? 12.5? or some metric size in between? You will have to account this to get the proper backspacing when you order your spacer/adapters. Make sure the adapters you buy are "hubcentric".

As far as the lift goes it depends. Will this Jeep only see streets or will you be off roading.? For street use only I think you could probably make a 2" lift work. If you're going to do any off roading you will want closer to 4". If your budget is fairly tight I would personally recommend the Zone 4.25" combo lift. This kit comes with a 3" suspension, 1.25" body lift, and motor mount lift. With this lift you "should" be able to avoid needing a SYE and save some dough.

3.73 won't be ideal but if you're not trying to run down the highway or interstate often you might be okay.

 

[Goatman]

With that Zone kit, or similar you can put the springs in for town driving and be happy. And if later on you want to do more hardcore offroad driving you can at that point add the body lift to get the clearance you need.