35" tire issues
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 471
Likes: 0
From: ottawa, ontario
I just heard from AEV concerning adding their 2.5" lift to run 35" tires on my 2008 2 door JK. Here's what they said:
"Thank you for contacting AEV. The 2007-2011 JK’s with the 3.8L automatic does require a driveshaft modification to the front because the stock diameter is to large. With the 2012 vehicles the stock driveline works just fine and does not need to be replaced. Please contact me if you have any further questions regarding the AEV product line."
Looks like I'll be needing a front drive shaft too!
Nathan
"Thank you for contacting AEV. The 2007-2011 JK’s with the 3.8L automatic does require a driveshaft modification to the front because the stock diameter is to large. With the 2012 vehicles the stock driveline works just fine and does not need to be replaced. Please contact me if you have any further questions regarding the AEV product line."
Looks like I'll be needing a front drive shaft too!
Nathan
JK Freak
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 854
Likes: 0
From: Humble, Texas
With the D44 I wouldn't worry about beefing the axles up unless you wheel often and hard. With the 3.8 it's a good idea to do the gears. I also recommend doing the DS now. Sure you can run on the stock shaft for a bit but you never know when it could go out. Just my opinion.
JK Junkie
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 2,466
Likes: 0
From: Pottstown, PA
replaced ball joints, axle u-joints and unit bearings after running 35's on my daily driver for a few years on my '07. It must be a Jeep think that's making me consider doing it all over again on my new '13 Rubi 
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 488
Likes: 1
From: orlando, fl
Will the gussets help in preventing ball joint failure as quickly? I was thinking 35's for my '12, but after all this talk I may think twice. I don't want to worry about replacing parts so soon.
Super Moderator
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 11,054
Likes: 85
From: Hendersonville, Tennessee
Super Moderator
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 11,054
Likes: 85
From: Hendersonville, Tennessee
JK Freak
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 854
Likes: 0
From: Humble, Texas
I've had my 35s for almost a year and 15k miles with no axle issues. Not saying it won't happen but I think you've got some time to beef up those components. It's low on my list anyway. I'm saving for a tire carrier. Should have gotten that sooner.
Thread Starter
JK Freak
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 514
Likes: 2
From: Eliot, Maine
As for balljoints, it should be noted that most jk owners will be replacing those way to soon, even in stock condition. Mine went out at 40000 with no mods. Factory balljoints are junk!!
JK Super Freak
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 1,007
Likes: 0
From: Cali