Leaderboard

Late to the party, heres what I did to my 02. Disclaimer, the Boss gave me carte blanche with my build. While it wasnt cheap it was way less expensive than buying something newer like a pro4x xterra, 4runner, or FJ and upgrading one of those vehicles, plus it was a blast to work on. As Jotegir mentioned above, i first either replaced every suspension arm/link/connector, even new rack and pinion, or in the case of the pan hard, replaced the bushings. Anything that wasnt welded down got replaced. I got everything from rock auto and bought the upgraded greaseable mevotech supreme parts. At the very least replace the bushings. Adding a lift to a loose suspension is asking for trouble. I also upgraded my CVs with high articulating joints which can handle the extended angle much better than stock. (also rock auto) For the lift, up front I went with OME struts ARB-N145S. The Rugged Rocks website says they are still available. Those struts are longer than stock and I have yet to top them out. I put AC 2" lift springs from 4x4parts.com over the struts. In the back, I went with bilstein 5100 shocks and nrc9449 springs in back. This has given me a slight rake but it should even out when I finish my coastal offroads steel swingout bumper and has been a great setup that gets me to most places my jeep buddies can go.