Tech in the Sierra Chapter??? (long)

[xtrm_jeepr]

Yea, thats right, so shoot me. Its all your fault anyway for making me confused. So here is the deal, I'll be getting into a highly paid full time position within a year or so, since I'll be out of college, and its time to start contemplating my future mods. First off, my plans for engine, tranny, t/c are a Chevy 350, 700 R4, and possibly an atlas (not so sure here). For suspension, two ideas, depending upon axles. First option would be portal axles with a 5.5" RE lift. Second would be to home brew a lift with Clatons LA, Bigoffroad leaves, and sykjacker coils, totaling about 8-10" with ProRock 60's. Both combos would be running a combo of 35-37" tires for rocks and snow. Also to be considered would be the unibody stiffening and cage. Now, which should be none first, keep in mind though that I am approaching 210K miles and not enough $$$ right now to afford a new vehicle. Also what supsension/axle combo to run, I am personally leaning toward the portal option. And finally who would be willing to assist with the various instulations since I know a ton about the Criminal Justice System, but very little that would be able to get me through this with an XJ. Thanks for the assistance, I dont mean to be an a**, but I really dont want any other options, unless they are really good cause Im already way too confused. One last thing, money would really not be an option or a factor, so other GOOD ideas are welcome.

[Maximus]

Sounds like you have a fun mission ahead. Since money isnt an option I guess finding those portal axles (i assume from Volvo) would be feasible, the drawback is the prats or even finding some sort of traction device for them. If you can make it work go for it. I would otherwise stay with something that is more available and therefore inexpensive. No one has soooo much money they can just give it away for no reason. 60's would be plenty srong for what you want or go with some rockwells and run like huge tires and be the only monster truck type XJ.:)

[xtrm_jeepr]

Come on now, I know you all have some suggestions. Or is it because I forgot to mention that there would be some $$$$ paid to those that would be able to help a guy out??? What upgrade should be first on the list (engine and tranny, lift and axles, etc.) and where would the frame stiffening come into play with all this?

[ChuckD]

Well, I'd say start with the engine tranny/TC. Get that to fit, then you make your suspension fit the new engine. Then decide on tire size, get axles that are gear and strong enough to match them. Work on the suspension, then body work.

If you don't do the engine first you'll end up wasting a lot of time, since money isn't a concern.;)