I have saved up 10k to invest in my 2008 JK Rubicon 6 speed manual 55k miles. My dilemma is I can either trade it up to a 2013 Rubicon auto with 8k miles (10k difference) or mod my 2008??? I ultimately want to run 37's and hit some hard core trails; it will mainly be a weekend toy I plan to retire next year and tow it behind an RV. So mod the 2008 now or trade up and the mods will have to wait???

 

If yours isn't an oil burner that was common that year I say keep it. The only real difference is the motors. For 10k you could spend 3-5k of that on a supercharger to get power that you will want when running 37's. You would still have more than enough for a lift and wheels and tires and start enjoying it that much sooner.

 

I am trying to plan the best for long term... I'm really on the fence on this one.

 

I would agree with above. I had a 2010 that I had bought brand new and it was going through over a quart at 3000miles, at only about 10k miles on the clock, and thats why I ultimentally traded in mine. Financially I would have made way more sense to keep my 2010 but I was also concerned about long term engine life. I do love my new 2013 Rubi and the penstar is great.

 

I would trade up because you're getting all the power in the new one to run 37s. You will be able to wheel some on the 4.10 gears but will probably want to rehear if you want to wheel hard. Trailing will be ok. I traded my 2011 for a 2014 and couldn't be happier. The new engine also gives the jeep way better highway manners as well. Just test drive a few and you'll be hooked.

 

I would build... Spend the $1200 (with labor) on new gears, get a 2.5" metal cloak dual rate lift - ARB edition - $1600 and use the roughly 7K left over to buy some 37's, gussets, sleeves and HD ball joints. You can build a VERY capable rig for 10K. Then again, if you've got the money to get a new one and build it....

 

i'd say build your 08, why start payments all over again

 

I don't really see the point in getting a new one if you don't plan to drive it very often. Not to mention you'd be back to square one as far as money for mods go. If it was me I think I would build what you have. That being said I like my 2014 much more than the 2010 I had.

 

For that amount of cash you might be able to drop a Hemi in it that would put the Pentastar to shame

 

I currently own 2013 Rubicon,& I would do what your doing and add 5:13 & lockers also.