I feel like I'm at risk of getting flamed for asking something that's been asked, but I couldn't find anything definitive in the forums. My '07 JK Unlimited is on order and I plan to lift it.

This vehicle is going to see time on-road and off-road (sand/mud; I doubt I'll be doing much rock-crawling at the beach). I paid extra for side-impact airbags and a 4.10 ratio, and it's going to also serve as a promotional vehicle. I don't want to sacrifice any highway/on-road ride quality or safety for liability reasons. I also plan to tow a boat with this vehicle.

I'm looking at getting the Cragar series 397 15x8 wheels with TrXus tires in the 33 or 35" flavor. I don't know how much lift to go with. I'm thinking that 2.5 would be fine for 33s, but if I decide to go up to a 35, I'll need a 4" lift. I'd like to keep the lift kit under $1,000. As I said, I want my ride quality to stay the same and don't want to have to do anything weird to keep the safety and traction control features functioning, as I may have other people driving this thing from time to time. I don't want to risk voiding my warranty either.

From what I've read on these forums, the stock spare tire carrier will support a 35 on a 15" wheel.

Which lift kit/tire combinations would you recommend for me to not sacrifice on-road ride quality and safety from stock? I would rather go with a smaller tire and lower lift if it's safer and more comfortable. However, if I can go bigger and higher without sacrifice, I'll do it.

 

If you want to keep gas mileage somewhat decent compared to stock, ride good onroad and off, look much better than stock and not make to many changes go with 2.5" lift and 33's. A 3" lift will work with 35's as well.

 

The next question, of course, isn't just the amount of lift, but which lift kit to purchase for the best ride quality. I expect to be driving this thing for road-trip distances at times.

 

I agree with the above statement. Very happy with my 2.5 lift plus 33"s. I think 3" and 35" is an excellent combo as well.

For on-road / interstate, I would go smaller than the 3" and 35"s.

As far as which kit, it all depends on budget. From what I can tell, you really get what you pay for - more money, more parts. My SkyJacker kit was inexpensive compared to a similar Full Traction, but it only comes with the shocks, springs, and hardware. Spending more money will get you adjustable track bars and other nicities.

 

i have a full 2.5" lift kit on mine (as in not a BB) with 305/70R17 which are 34.6" and it is perfect. the only time i ever rub is at full turn and hard hard bumps.
i don't know if a 15" wheel will clear the brakes, u might have to get a 16".

 

I am extremely pleased with the ride and handling of my 3" Black Diamond lift and Hankook 315/70/17 (35's) tires. Here's my thread about it with a few pictures.

https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/jk-show-tell-33/unlimited-rubicon-3-black-diamond-lift-35-hankook-tires-commander-hulk-wheels-4434/