[2GPS4ME]

This is a Backwards Budget Build. I'm shooting for a LCG (This was my original idea long before LCG became a 'trend') Jeep intended for comfort, practical use, and performance. It's backwards because I'm focusing on important and useful components of the Jeep first, instead of bolting on a 4" lift and 33s and then wondering why it doesn't perform like it should .

The '98 TJ was a steal with a Salvage title, making it a perfect candidate for a budget build.

4.0, AX-15, 30/35, 3.07 gears, 31" tires (OEM was 205/75-15 or 27.5"), and 158k on the ODO. Runs as good as new.

1st stage plan: $1,000 budget
1 - Replace wheels/oversized tires with Treadwright tires on a set of oem steelies.
2 - Front tow hooks
3 - Custom rear bumper for a better departure angle
4 - Fender flare trimming
5 - Interior paint/trim change & restoration
6 - Basic sound system improvement
7 - Communications (CB radio/antenna)
8 - Lock the front differential
9 - 2" front/1.25" rear spacer lift
10 - V8 ZJ tie rod
11 - Basic armor (if funds are left)


2nd stage plan: $1,500 budget
1 - LOWER GEARS (DIY?)
2 - Chromoly axles (if D35 is kept)
3 - Highline, Metalcloak, or flat fenders
4 - 31-33 inch tires (depends on gears available)
5 - On-board Air

[AlTheKillerr]

sounds interesting. ill be watching this build

[2GPS4ME]

The first change was to pull the CD changer from the trunk. CDs were skipping over small bumps on the road - it would never make it on the trail.

Next, I pulled the front bumper end caps, then threw on the wheels/31" tires from my XJ to see what they looked like. I like the look of the 31s on stock configuration, but with some less-backspaced wheels, and some fender/flare work (highline or similar later), 33s should not be a problem (after gears, of course).

[2GPS4ME]

As of late, I have done the following:

- Install Crown Automotive mirror movers (to go doorless)
- Install adjustable door straps
- Tightened the parking brake
- Chose a color for the headlight bezels, swaybar cover, and fender flares
- Bought a set of Treadwright tires @ 235/75-15

Next on the list:
- Fender flare painting & trimming
- Interior makeover (eliminating the overwhelming puke tan color)
- Front tow hooks
- Swaybar DQ installs

More pics to come. Gotta have the pics, or it's just wasted typing.

[2GPS4ME]

Crown Automotive #57005 mirror movers - $28.99

Rubber stubby antenna - $3.99 (TJ didn't have an antenna at all).

[2GPS4ME]

Front tow hooks/keepers installed - $29.98

I also removed the front swaybar until I get the disconnects installed. The color on the swaybar cover is what will be used for the fender flares.

Krylon Fusion textured charcoal - $5.99 for a can.

Will also be painting the bezels. Bright, shiny chrome =

[2GPS4ME]

235/75-15 tires from TREADWRIGHT - $297.00 to my door.

[2GPS4ME]

Had to make the Jeep custom to myself.

'Trail Tested' (instead of 'Trail Rated', for you newbies) - $5.98

[ruff88xj]

Nice start, you'll be happy with the treadwright atg's. I'm more than impressed with my set.

[2GPS4ME]

Well, I did some swapping the other day, and a new friend will be constructing a nice hi-profile rear bumper with integrated receiver, etc. That will finish the recovery points for the TJ!

[2GPS4ME]

Comparison of the worn out door straps vs. the new adjustable straps - $8.99

[2GPS4ME]

Upcoming...

- Install CB radio and antenna (from my CJ)
- Changing trans fluid to Redline MT-90 (Hoping to help the 1st-to-2nd shift blues)
- Powertrax Lock-Rite is in the mail for the Dana 30!

[2GPS4ME]

Looky what the mailman brought to my door! Powertrax Lock-Rite - $175 (Thanks gatorayde!)

[2GPS4ME]

Quadratec 'built' a TJ in stages, so I'm doing the same. But differently.

As of now, STAGE 1:
Treadwright tires (ATG) - $297
D30 Powertrax Lock-Rite - $175
Front tow hooks - $29.98
Rear bumper - $Traded parts
Mirror Movers - $28.99
Door Straps - $8.99
1.25" spacers - $40
Spray paint - $5.99
Rubber antenna - $3.99
Front rotors/pads - $101.04
Decals - $5.98
TOTAL = $696.96

[Imped]

Nice job man, very thrifty.