So everyone recommends at least a 3 inch lift. Just remember that I have to be able to get the kids and the wife in and out of it. I will start looking around for a 3" suspension lift. What size tires will that allow?
OK, first to answer this question, a 3" kit should get you 32's-33's on a TJ. But back to the original question of "body vs. suspension" lift... My opinion has always been to go suspension. A body lift only gain you clearance to the frain that you get with the bigger tires, so a 2" body lift get you 32's. A stock TJ has 29's or 30's depending on what wheel package you got. so you really only gain 1" of clearance at the frame. Now do a 2" suspension lift. You moved the frame up 2", plus you can now roll 32's. A totl gain of 3" clearance at the frame. You will always only gain the extra clearance that you get from the tires at your differential, but you will get more frame clearance from a suspension lift.
That being said, there is a lotof people that are of the opinion that limiting suspension lift is better. It keeps your center of gravity lower to reduce the risk of roll-over. So a body lift, and maybe some high-line front fenders and some cut-out flares on a TJ can really add a lot of tire size. If I remember right, there is a set-up from AEV that gets you front fenders, a new hood, and new flares for the rear that will fit 33's on a stock suspension. Add a 2" body lift and you get 35's and have really not raised your center of gravity signifigantly. I reccomend grabbing a couple issues of JP magazine and reading what they have to say about lifts. They really push keeping the center of gravity low.
At any rate, which ever way you go, we will gladly help you out. I have personally put a Rock Krawler 7" long-arm triangulate 4-link onto a TJ, and there is a lot more experience in the club. We will be happy to help.
