I have a 2dr Rubi... I am currently running 35's under a budget boost.
Next week I am upgrading the lift to 5+ inches. When my 35's wear out, I'd like to graduate up to 37's.
My off-road is light to moderate - exploring in the woods and playing at the beach.

I want to make sure I am not forgetting anything:

I'm having gussets and sleeves welded in at the same time the lift goes on.
Should I still upgrade the shafts as well?

When I go up to the 37's I will regear the axles to 5:13.

I will switch from 16" wheels to 17" (or 18?)... Trying to keep the amount of sidewall reasonable for both on and off road.

I know 4.5" backspacing is the rule for aftermarket wheels, but when you get over 35" tires and up, wouldn't you need even less, since the edge of the tire is further out there and can reach further in and out when turning?
Maybe I will need wheel spacers, even with aftermarket rims?

I'm expecting to have to cut 2" off the stock Rubi rock rails, and beat in or cut the pinch seam in the wheel well.

I already have a Hypertech to program for the tires/gears.
And I already have an aftermarket tire carrier that will fit a 37.

Am I forgetting anything? I don't like bad surprises!

 

Tell us about your lift plans

 

It's the Trailmaster 5" flex-arm kit. The same one that Northridge is giving away.
New springs, shocks, all control arms, front and rear trackbars, drive shafts, etc.

 

with the guessets and the sleeves on the 44 you should be okay good luck lets see some pics when its done

 

Sounds like you have the plan, everything seems to be correct and thought over. Once shes done post some pics.

 

Sounds like things are in order. Can't wait for pics.

 

I will definately post pics...

Any other comments or thoughts on whether to go 17 or 18 inch wheels?
And if I will need to space them out further? The wheels I'm looking at are backspaced 4.75".

 

Planman,
Great info from somebody who has gone town the road I'm starting on...
Thanks a lot!

 

sounds like your on track. I also have 37s and wouldn't go smaller. I run 5:38 gear in mine.

 

Ditto on the 5.38s. I have the 5.13s and want to upgrade to the 5.38s.