I've read the FAQs.. but still have questions. Maybe the best thing to do at this point is to say here's what I want, and leverage the forum to help me figure out how to get there.

I've got my first Jeep, a 2010 Wrangler Sport, with no options but a Freedom Top and A/C. Has 16x7 steelies and boring tires.

Intended uses: Mostly highway, no serious trail/offroading, but want the ability to take the offroad route when SHTF. Live in Maine and do some winter/snowy driving.

Goals:

a) conservative lift of 2 to 2.5 inches
b) bigger, more aggressive tires
c) keep stock rims to limit the cost and not have to mess with TPMS etc.
d) even out the rake
e) not prematurely wear out components due to lift... such as U joints, etc...
f) I prefer a slightly toned-down look; I'm not into attention-getting or slapping on the giant tires and lights. I prefer function first, but want a clean, simple look. Next mod will be bumper replacement but that's another chapter.

Specifics:
- lift: OME kit (do I understand correctly the OME kit does NOT even out the rake?)
Comes with shocks and coils. What else do I need? Bump stops, trackbar stuff, ...?
- tires: 31x10.5 is good for me, narrowed down to either BFG A/T KO's or Goodyear DuraTracs. Would consider 33's but not sure that buys me much.... EDIT: Okay, I'll consider 33's, but really, no larger., It's come down to almost a tossup between the two. Function is important but I have to be honest, looks are too...

If I do the above, what else do I need, particularly to avoid problems noted in e)?

Sorry for the newbie post but I find myself looking at FAQs for weeks and still getting nowhere.

 

IMO, 31's will look bad with any lift. consider 33s or 35s. you can go 33s with a narrower tire (255, or even 285 doesnt stick out too much). check out discount tire direct, they are a site sponsor (discounts sometimes) and offer free shipping. you will probably need a front adjustable track bar with a 2.5" lift. everything else should be fine/included in the lift. if they are not included, might need brake line extensions/relocation brackets (check the DIY), and maybe bumpstops. im running a 2.5" lift with the factory bumpstops.

 

No help here. I'm still trying to figure that out myself. I have no budget .

 

My recomendation would be to go the the "Show me" threads and get an idea of what the different combinations look like. 33s and a 2 or 2.5" spacer lift is a nice look and fairly capable set-up for a resonable price. Some level the jeep, some don't. Most spring kits will actually make the nose sit high unless you have an aftermarket bumper or winch to add more weight.

There are tons of different options, good luck with you're choice!

 

Don't go any smaller than a 33" tire, you will probably regret it later. I had those rims w/ 225/75/16 tires stock. Man were they small ! You may need some spacers to get clearance though. with that and a 2-2.5" BB lift will get you pretty capable off-road.

 

I currently have 2.5" of lift (bit more in front) with 32's and it looks decent. It would look better with 33's. Mine also is a bare bones X (there is no Sport model, that was a TJ/XJ thing) that came with the silver steel wheels and 29" tires.

Here is what mine looked like stock, and now. I think its kind of what you are going for:

THEN:


NOW:

 

http://www.jeep.com

 

Sport has replaced the X currently.

I think your look is probably close to what the OP is looking for. I don't see anything wrong with 2.5" of lift, either BB or springs (preferably) and 33" tires for what OP wants. This combination will not require new control arms, driveshafts or anything costly. I would look into longer swaybar links, and if you can live with your axles slightly to one side, you don't need new trackbars or relocation brackets, although some lift kits come with trackbar brackets (TF, to name one)

 

2.5" coil lifts will typically yield higher than that (3-3.5").

If you don't plan on replacing components such as adj. trackbars, control arms, driveshafts,etc.....I would recommend sticking with:
(1) 2.5" BB(budget boost)
(2) Leveling kit(2" front, 1" rear)
(3) or something like a 2" LIGHT duty OME coil....


Just my thoughts

 

Huh, I was not aware Jeep got rid of the X. That just really confuses things. But ohwell