Budget axle upgrade advise

[Cajuncrawler]

I have a recent TJ purchase. I bought it knowing the front differential needed work. Apparently it was run without lube. So, I am planning to rebuild it.
I am running 33” tires. 4.0, 5 speed. 98k miles. I see no issue with the rear axle.
I think I have the budget for 3 options.
1. Rebuild front stock 3.73
2. Rebuild front with 3.73 and add lunchbox locker
3. Rebuild front with 4.11 or 4.56 and re-gear the rear to match
Which do I choose? Or is there a 4th option I should consider? (Trying to stay under 1k)

 

[PNW_LJ]

Since you have a Dana 30 up front, the cheapest option would probably be to get a used Dana 30 out of another TJ with 3.73 gears.

They are pretty common and around here you can easily find a complete one for $100-200.

 

[Rickyd]

Regear to 4.56

 

[machoheadgames]

Regear to 4.88.

 

[Cajuncrawler]

Since you have a Dana 30 up front, the cheapest option would probably be to get a used Dana 30 out of another TJ with 3.73 gears.

They are pretty common and around here you can easily find a complete one for $100-200.

Maybe I am looking in the wrong place, but the ones I am seeing are in the $800 to $1000 range. And the history is usually sketchy.

 

[macleanflood]

I've got my original 3.73 open carrier and pinion if you want them.

Lots of D30s here in the PNW.

-Mac

 

[RangerTJ]

You have 33" tires.

You will eventually want/need 4.56 or 4.88 gears.

If you can find a cheap Dana 30 to get it going, do that.

If it's going to cost you a good bit, now is the time to re-gear.