New to the world of the Jeep

[Toddg]

Hey everyone,
I was hoping to get some information about the tj wrangler.
Preferably 1998/1999.
As the title suggests I'm new to this jeep thing.
I've had a (dare I say it) Patrol for a couple of years but looking for something that doesn't feel like a semi in the bush.
I've always loved the look of the wranglers and a 98/99 tj is in my budget.
Would just like to know general do's and don'ts with these cars?
What to look out for?
And I was also wondering how diff clearance compares to the other 4by's out there.
Thank you in advance.

[romito]

well do you want stock or modified? and when i was running 31s the clearence under my diff was higher than a patrol running 33's

[Toddg]

Lightly modified I guess.
Maybe more.
Thanks for the diff clearance info.
My patrols got 33's and definitely needs more diff clearance.
Anything I should look out for when buying one?
Possible problems?

[romito]

if i you get a lifted one preferably get one with a sye eliminator kit, i would recommend a 97 to 99 as they have a better gear box in them although they still have distributor in them.

[Toddg]

Ok thanks mate.
Anything to look out for with the engine?
Or any bad spots for rust?

[romito]

with the engine i would dare say no as they are a good engine and they also dont normally rust as they are a galvanised body

[Toddg]

Alright.
Thanks heaps for the info mate exactly what I was looking for.

[mylilTJ]

the body is galvenised but everything else isnt. just beware they love to drink fuel, a modest 2.5in lift with sway bar disconnects will get you nearly everywhere. a quick list of mods I would do

2.5in lift with rubicon express or rancho springs.
sway bar disconects.
31 in tires for on road, 33's for off road you will need aftermarket rims for the 33s. 31's can be put on stock rims.
7 inch flares.
front sway bar bump stop extensions.
slip yoke eliminator.
upgraded. tie rod and drag link.
after market control arms.

I would strongly advise using aftermarket rims for both 33's and 31's as standerd rims with 31's under 7in flares looks extremely gay.
I disconnected my front sway bar with 33's and a 2in lift and the tires massaged my fenders.
if you want 33'a all the time, then a re gear of the diffs is not needed but a very very good idea. as its a pain to drive. gears you need are 4.56:1 for a 5speed. unsure about the autos . may also be the time to consider lockers.

happy jeeping.

[Toddg]

That's great info myliltj.
Thanks heaps for that.
I think I will be aiming for 33's.
Is a 2.5 inch lift just shocks and springs no other shit needed?

[slayer]

Hey,I'm running a 2.5" ome lift came with springs shocks and rear panhard drop bracket.you'd easy be able to fit 33's.im running 35's not ideal but I had them off another truck and I'll be goin 3.5" and a bodylift ASAP

[slayer]

You'd prob want front disconnects and not to sure if you need sye kit and driveshaft,but a good idea I think