i broke one CV..... ever. and it was due to that side being at full droop and at full-lock turn and having a lot of wheel-spin stopped immediately upon the tire touching the ground. yes, the extra down-travel was a factor, but a small factor. the CV's are plenty strong enough to handle most off-road situations and will last a long time when used with either suspension lift mentioned above.

just so you know, i suggested tire sizes to you as maximums, not options. 30's are really the max you can run on a stock rim with no lift. if you actually get a shop to mount a 31 on the stock rim (not common), they will rub more than i think you estimate. you will need to trim A LOT and it still may not be enough. i understand you concerns about center of gravity and body roll, but if these were concerns at all at the time of purchase, why buy a Sportage, it comes equipped with a certain amount of body roll from the factory and it's COG is already something like 20" off the ground. my suggestion to you if you truly plan on going this route, is to get a 1-1.375" body lift from 4crawler (roger brown) found elsewhere here on 4x4wire. this will lessen the amount the COG is raised and offer what should be enough room to run a 31 with the same sort of fender trimming you are looking at right now. and it's easy to do and cheap.

good luck whatever you do, and now back to WHO ACTUALLY WANTS A 2" OR 2.5/1.5" SUSPENSION LIFT KIT?

thank you