Ok, so you can see my specs below, but basically I'm running on 3.5" of lift. I am a little leery to head out on the trail this season as I'm running stock driveshafts. Also, I'm worried that stock control arms aren't doing me any good either.

My questions are open ended so add what you can.
1. Should I or shouldn't I hit the trails with my current setup? am I looking for a broken driveshaft if I go out? other damage?
2. I have no intentions of upgrading control arms. is that a bad idea? what would happen if I left them stock?

I ask this because money for upgrades are not coming easy and I don't see them coming along any time soon. (wife wants another kid) if I can't do much with my current configuration I may just sell the jeep and go another direction. I'm looking in to possibly adding a driveshaft later this year and doing the install myself, however, that will be a big maybe at this point. And fitting two dogs and two kids in a JK is not possible. I'm already looking in to buying a trailer or rack to accommodate two dogs and a kid, but once aagain a big soccer mom vehicle may also be a possibility.

Anyway, give me your input to help me decide which direction I should go.

 

I'd say trade in on a JKU. I can easily get my 2 kids and large dog in mine, it's a great family car.

 

Take it out and do some easy trails. Your rear ds will be fine on the 4dr, the front you may rip the boot on it. Still usable though. My advise would be to cut off the metal band of the boot ( accordian style)on the shaft thats closest to the T-case ( i replaced both on mine)and replace it with a ziptie. The metal nub on the band will catch the edge of the tranny pan and nick it causing a leak.


You can also trim the tranny skid and drop it a little to help keep the boot from tearing.
These aren't guarantees, but can help. Also, go wheelin with a buddy so they can spot you and never be afraid to take a strap if you feel you can't make or get stuck on an obstacle. These jk's are beasts off-road, but take it easy and you should be fine.

 

His proflie says hes got an unlimited

 

2 kids + 2 large dogs = no where to put supplies, luggage etc.... I need a rack or a trailer, both of which are a couple thousand.

Thats probably a good approach. I'll keep it light and travel in a group. I looked in to cutting the skid plate and don't ahve proper tools. I'm going to cross my fingers I get enough cash for my B-day in august to put on a new DS.

Yup.. got a 2007 JKU already.. Haha.

 

My front DS was damn near touching the crossmember sitting in the garage with 3.5" RK lift...I wouldn't think of wheeling that way. I went with the Coast 1310. Control arms are going to save you U joints and give you better handling and flex...watch the for sale section. I have seen a few in there. Good luck man! I would suggest leaving the dogs at home to wheel if you need the space...my two dogs - 65# chow lab mix and a 100# bloodhound puppy won't roll while I'm wheeling...if you are desperate for space get a hitch rack for now maybe? Good luck bud!

 

X2, I use one from harbor freight, it was 50 or 60 bucks.

 

Yeah, but their 3.5 gives about 4.5-5in of lift. haha