Newbie question about TJ 4cly touchness in the bush or on trails...

[scicero1]

I recently purchased a 1999 wrangler. I love this jeep, I am learning quickly you can really put alot into these little machines. Thing is I dont regret anything so far. I love it!

One fear I do have is the power I will get from the 4cyl. Ive heard "dont even attempt certain things without a 6" Ive also heard "the 4cyl is geared right for it, get a suspension lift and just dont expect speed on the highway or gas mileage" can anyone tell me what experiences they had with the 4cyl wranglers off road?

Im wondering what to start with. I already upgraded the tires to 31 10.50 15 because i needed tires. I dont know if I should go body lift, suspension lift, or what kind of power I will really have with this 4cyl. Can anyone help with some of your experiences?

 

[jfrabat]

If geared right, the 4 banger is quite alright. I run 33's with 4.88 gearing (and a few mods), and I hold my own quite well to 6 cyl Jeeps. Of course, dont expect to cruise down the highway at 80mph, but it's a Jeep, so I dont mind (mine can do 70 all day long, which is more than enough for me).

I ran 31's on 4.10, and it was OK, but nothing to write home about. Then I regeared to 4.88, and with the 31's, it was AWESOME! I could cruise in 5th even if I was uphill or with a head wind. Of course, then I went to 33's, and it was back to the same power level as 31's on 4.10, which is not horrible, but nothing like 31's and 4.88! As far as lift, I would go with suspension rather than body lift. A 2.5" lift should be plenty to clear 31's, and you should not need to go to a SYE and CV shaft.

 

[jps4jeep]

if it starts and run... run it.