What would you do if you started your build over?

[fixmysix]

I'm starting a scratch build that will be a TJ from the frame down. The body will be the CJ-6 in my avatar picture. I'd like to know some opinions on modifications and upgrades that maybe you went half way the first time around, spent the $$, then realized you should have gone with $$$$ dollar part, or even the extra man hours to get right. Budget is a concern so if like to follow the 90%/10% rule. Also things that will be way easier working on without the body on the frame. Goal is a reliable Jeep to take the family camping, fishing and run the Rubicon with minimal chance of breakage. It will not be a daily driver, but needs to be able to be highway stable for trips from LA to Sacramento/Rubicon.

Current build/parts list include:
HP 30, 8.8 combo. ARB in both
Currie 4 inch with Antirock
Rancho 5000x ?
2014+ gm 4.3 and 6l80, NV 241
35 inch tire 4.5" back spacing.
101"-103" wheelbase
I picked up a rolling chassis with Currie 4 inch lift for a great deal which is in the pictures.

That about covers stage 1. I want to run that for awhile and consider the Savvy mid arm later. I'm looking to maximize stage 1 though.
Any thoughts, opinions, tips and tricks are welcome.

 

[Irun]

This should be very interesting. Out of curiosity, why the 4.3 vs a 5.3 v8?

 

[fixmysix]

This should be very interesting. Out of curiosity, why the 4.3 vs a 5.3 v8?

Early CJ under hood depth, and the V6 puts out 285hp and 305 ft/lbs stock. I didn't really see the need for more than that and I'll have room to spare to work on things and adjust position for oil pan clearance.

 

[Goatman]

Will be very interested to watch this build. I've been a 6 cyl fan for years. But have you considered a diesel with turbo for the powerplant? As I get older they seem to make more and more sense to me.

 

[fixmysix]

Will be very interested to watch this build. I've been a 6 cyl fan for years. But have you considered a diesel with turbo for the powerplant? As I get older they seem to make more and more sense to me.

I like the power numbers and efficiency. I don't like the weight compared to an all aluminum engine, and I don't know how to fix diesel. I do think diesel is way under utilized.

 

[Plumber1]

Be watching this

 

[fixmysix]

Be watching this

The real fun will start early summer. Right now I'm just putting parts together. I know it isn't an actual TJ but I'll post a build thread in case anyone is interested. It will show basically a frame off restoration of your Jeeps.... With more body rust..., and a frame stretch...., and an engine swap.

 

[Goatman]

I like the power numbers and efficiency. I don't like the weight compared to an all aluminum engine, and I don't know how to fix diesel. I do think diesel is way under utilized.

The VW 1.8TDI is probably lighter than your V6 engine. But that is just one of many concerns to weigh out (get it?) I would love to find out how the V6 engine works out. Power?✔ cost?✔ parts?✔ ease?
mileage?
Really looking forward to watching this build!