Just a thought, I am runnin 30X9.50 on my stocker. My gear ratio is 3.07:1 and I felt the increase in tire size. Milage dropped off and when we get the 25 - 30 mph winds, forget about 5th gear.

The up side is that before I changed tires, I would go down to South Padre Island and my skid plate acted like a shovel. I get home and while hosing off the top of the skid plate, I would get enough sand in the drive to build a small sand castle. Since the upgrade, I don't drag the skid any more.

Welcome to the board and enjoy the new toy.

Looks like most of your Q's are being answered ok so I'll just add, I think you should join the club if it's a good one. Go to a few meetings to get to know the people and ride with them before making any modifications. See what others are using and how good they do off road. Even if it means sitting and watching other Jeeps play (large part of the fun!). Members will be riding more than once as month, nice folks will let you tag along before you join. If it's a good club they will charge minimal or no dues and you will get all the help you need to do whatever you want to the Jeep. IF IT'S A GOOD CLUB! There are some that are not so good. Guy's that like to spend lots of money on their rigs, shine them up and meet at a mall parking lot or restuarant to swap lies and then won't go off road because they can't risk scratching the paint or denting a fender. Some call them Posers and some have their own Clubs. Beware! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />