2012 JKU Build - Any opinions/suggestions
 

Hey guys, so I've gotten a quote I'm happy with and am very close to pulling the trigger.
Just wondering if anyone has any opinions or thoughts, or suggestions on the package/build I'm getting:

- AEV 3.5" Premium lift
- Tom Woods 1310 Driveshaft
- Tera JK Exhaust Spacer
- BMF Matte Black Rims
- 35/12.5/17 Toyo Open Country
- 2 Sets of KC offroad lights - wiring them into the factory fog light switch (good idea?)
- Smittybilt XRC Front bumper (already installed)
- Rugged Ridge XHD Rear Bumper with tire carrier (already installed) - got it because it looks good and allows you to keep/use the factory tow package
- Best top cab cover (hopefully and supposedly water proof)
- tubular half doors (already have these)
- EXC spline drive kit
- Mopar black fuel door

Is there anything with this build I am missing that I need/should have????????

THANKS GUYS!!!

Re: 2012 JKU Build - Any opinions/suggestions
 

just curious why the hassle of 3.5" lift and only 35s?

Re: 2012 JKU Build - Any opinions/suggestions
 

I'm new . . . so although I've asked tons of questions and done tonssss of research, but I definitely don't know everything . . .

I chose the 3.5" AEV because from what I can tell it can do almost anything offroad while still being great onroad. I know I could do the 2.5" AEV however from what I can tell it doesn't have the high steer 'stuff' and is missing components that make the 3.5" more complete . . . . ??? I figured I'd do the driveshaft so that I dont have to worry about it at all later no matter what I do/where I offroad. The driveshaft installed is only $550, so I figure that's worth it, plus takes away the need to do the "Y" pipe to bypass the exhaust issue in the new JK's.

What would you suggest? I definitely will not be going larger in tires because I will be doing offroading only periodically. However when I do offroad I dont want to be too limited and I don't want anything to go wrong (ie. bending a driveshaft, or wrecking fenders). I will be running stock fenders for now . . .

I am completely open to more opinions, which is why I added this thread.
Thanks for replying! Please elaborate on what you think would be a better idea if this one is not the best for me . . . ??

I have only put the downpayment on my rims because they are rare and almost out of stock everywhere in the states. I have another week or so to make changes on the rest of my order.

Re: 2012 JKU Build - Any opinions/suggestions
 

So why do you say a 3.5 is a hassle??

Re: 2012 JKU Build - Any opinions/suggestions
 

Once you get into the 3.5"+ range is when it starts getting expensive. There is no need for adjustable control arms and all that extra stuff with a 2.5" lift. No need for driveshafts and exhaust spacers its either or..
The reason I asked why is because its the tire size that makes it more capable not the lift. You choose the height of lift to match the tire size you choose to keep the lowest COG (center of gravity) as possible. I personally don't see the need to have all the fancy bracketry thats on the AEV lifts but thats Just me. If you rock crawl at all you'll be beating up those lower drop brackets. We have been running 2.5" TeraFlex Lifts for almost 5 years on 2 Jeeps with no issues at less then 1/2 the cost.
Totally up to you though.. If you like the AEV kit its your call, they do make great quality stuff..

Re: 2012 JKU Build - Any opinions/suggestions
 

So basically though, you think I should get a smaller lift?
Because even with a 2.5" lift I'm pretty sure it's still a good idea to do the drive shaft. I definitely agree overall I'm spending a bit more than planned. . . my buddy got his 33" tires with 20" rims (i know :S i dont like the big rims, but his call not mine) for around $4,300 and I am paying $7,100 for labour and parts for everyyyything on mine, but I won't ever have to add to it or worry about it because it's all quality parts and I'm doing it right the first time. I could go a cheaper/smaller lift, but I'd maximum save $1000 (because I'd still want to do the drive shaft).
I'm not arguing your point, but I definitely need more details to change my mind on the lift . . . My offroading will primarily be mud and rough trails . . . not too much hardcore rock crawling . . . I appreciate your thoughts and advice either way! :)
I've been told and read that the 3.5" actually has a better ride quality than the 2.5" because of the geometry correction stuff and high steer kit etc that come with the kit . . .

Re: 2012 JKU Build - Any opinions/suggestions
 

Stuff will break, no matter what. You can't stop it, you go offroad you will break something eventually. So don't think if you buy the best of the best you'll be bulletproof out there, mother nature always wins in the end. Just what day will she pick your day to break.

Re: 2012 JKU Build - Any opinions/suggestions
 

I am not gonna try and change your mind my friend. Just giving another option to think about. Changing the front driveshaft even for 2.5" lift is only required if using drop brackets or adjustable or longer control arms. If you like the look of 3.5" lift and 35s by all means do what looks best for you. Your choice of tires is going to determine how far you go more so then the lift.
Otherwise you have a very comprehensive list and if you stick with everything you will be fine. But I don't believe a 3.5" lift will ride as good or better then a properly set up 2.5" lift.

Re: 2012 JKU Build - Any opinions/suggestions
 

It's actually easier and cheaper to get a better ride out of a 2.5" lift. The higher you go the more it takes to get the ride and handling back.

Re: 2012 JKU Build - Any opinions/suggestions
 

livdrty,

Sounds like one sweet ride! Definitely jealous.

***About the KC lights, check and make sure you're not drawing to much from that circuit, might cause some grief down the road if it starts blowing fuses or worse modules. Maybe some type of fuses/relay to protect it would be wise.