If you are running an oversized spare, I would go bumper. Gears may help the performance, but the bumper will keep you from damaging the gate if you catch the tire on a ledge, and also will save it from breaking spot welds.

 

Since you have an auto if you are or will be running 35"+ tires do the gears will have a larger reward.

You spend most of your Jeep time inside of it , where you can't even see the bumpers but you sure can feel the gears.

 

That's a tough call on which route to go. Since you're running a Rubi with an Auto, and I think 33's you should be okay for the time being unless you're planning on upgrading to larger in the next 12 months. If that is your plan then get the gears.

If you're planning on sticking with the 33's and waiting 'til your tires wear out before upgrading get the bumper or some other armor to protect your rig. The LoD is a slick bumper but there are others out there that are as nice or nicer. I PM'd you info on a bumper from this one company. Check it out, they've got a very unique set up and slick looks to boot.

 

If you plan on going to 35's do the gearing, get it out of the way now, its more expensive and time consuming. Bumpers are cheaper and its DIY do those later. You can always get used bumpers here on the forum cheaper too.

 

GEARS FIRST!!!!!

 

kkuntz - the PM didn't come through. I am interested in hearing what alternative you are recommending.

 

A little more info regarding my plans: I am on some really heavy 33's, which is why my Jeep struggles a bit to hold OD over 55 or 60. I don't daily drive it, but it is typically 1.5 - 3.5 hours to get to local wheeling spots. I occassionally drive it to work, maybe once a week. I don't need the gears for low speed at all. The 4:1 transfer case ratio running offroad is plenty of help for that. When I do 'go big', I may go 37s. I need a taller garage for that and I'd like to get some use out of my current tires, so it is by no means imminent.

Can anyone better substantiate the transmission wear issue? Isn't it just one set of gears versus another? The trans isn't struggling at all with O/D off. It seems like there is less 'slip' with the O/D off. I am no transmission guy, which is why I am asking for more info to help with the decision.

 

Since it isn't a daily driver, and you are only on a 33" tire at the moment I would really argue for the bumper. It will save your tailgate from having spot welds break from the heavy tire, could save body damage if you catch your tire on a ledge off road, and also could save your rear corners in thos instances.

If you do a 5.13 gear with a 33" tire you are going to be reving pretty high on the highway, so I would wait until you are ready to move up to a larger tire like a 35" or 37" to get gears.

 

that changes my opinion, too. 4.10s with 33s, go with the bumper. personally, and im sure ill get shit for this, but i dont mind 4.10s with my 35s. its my DD and i drive mostly highway (flat roads).

 

Warm milk anyone? My toy(s) just turned into a new refrigerator. Only 8 years and dead compressor.