Good call. The perfect gears for 'you' can be difficult to determine, so the more time you spend looking into it the better off you will be. There are plenty of gearing threads to read through for opinions, but remember to note the specifics of the replies. (do they have a different engine/transmission, live at altitude, all in town or like to cruise at 90, etc, etc.)

The best bet would probably be to hook up with some local jeepers and see about getting rides in jk's with that tire size and a couple different gear ratios.

When the axles are torn apart is a great time to add traction, so if you are thinking about lockers or limiteds at all, do some more research on that.

If you end up with a front d30 and 3.21's, you will need to replace the open carrier in that axle. Minor expense, but worth noting.

I read an interesting conversation, with an engineer from Dana. He advised that welding actually weakens the metal, regardless of the perceived gain of the reinforcements.

To your point, he advised replacing the axles if 37" or more is desired.

I want legit capability, beyond the mall, lol, but 35" will do for RV dingy duties, moderate trail use, and keep her in the garage.

Thanks for the advice and info.

Thanks, you guys all have great advice.

I hope to do just that, go on some Jeep runs and such.

Fortunately, or not, I started a little late, so I have a Hard Rock, with everything. Only compromise was the automatic (for the wife) and 3.73 gears...the topic of this thread.

I am really impressed with the amount of time the folks in here spend, trying to help eachother! Just like I have learned to love the "Jeep Wave" on the road, this is going to be a great experience.