So I have a pretty good family friend that is a retired head Ford mechanic. We own a used car dealership and he is our go to guy on everything that needs extensive mechanical work. Very reputable guy.

He told me that he would install gears on my JKU for $350 total labor. I supply the parts.

So here is my situation. I can get the Truck-Lite/D2 combo or throw some 5.13s in my Jeep.

Which would you do first and why?

 

What year JK and what size tires are you running?

 

2011 JKU, 4'' rc x-series lift, 35'' tires. Automatic trans, stock 3.73s currently.

 

I would do the gears first. Also, you'll need a ProCal to adjust your speedometer and shift points ($159).

You can add lights later... as long as you have headlights you will be good enough.

 

That guy is doing it for a steal I'd do the gears.

 

Yeah, like I said he is a pretty close family friend and him and my father have exchanged business with each other for more than a decade. I know he is hooking me up on the labor for sure.

Would I benefit from saving and going with another tuner like a Diablo Sport or something, or is the Pro-Cal going to do primarily the same thing?

 

First of all-If he is a really good family friend then he should do the install for Free, just my thoughts. As what I would do to help out friends, just depends upon the friend so you don't always expect it because of their knowledge.

Do the gears for that year and the tires you are running. Lights can wait and you can do that yourself-really depends upon your need right now.

 

Coming from someone with 35's and stock gears myself, I would go with the gears no doubt

 

He is a good friend for sure but we also have a business relationship with each other. I don't expect him to throw his labor away on my project when he could be helping support his family on other jobs.

I understand what you mean though. I am just willing to compensate him- especially since the labor would be double or more from other shops.

 

I would do the gears. The only question is since you are sitting at 4 inches of lift, do plan on going to 37's at some point? If you do then gear for those.