Bought my first Jeep last month, a 99 Wrangler with a 4.0 motor and a 5-speed. Right now it has stock alloy wheels and p205 75R15 street tires. It is my only vehicle, so it will get me to work and everywhere else. But I also want to try some off-roading for fun. Soon I'll try some of the Trail Rides I read about here --I think I'm gonna like this. Take off the top and doors and enjoy some 4-wheeling. So how do I get my Jeep ready?

Here are my questions about wheels and suspension:

1. Are 31 x 10.5's good size tires to upgrade to? Will they fit the stock wheels I have now? How do I find out exactly what size wheels (width) are on the Jeep now? I'm trying to strike a balance since this will be my daily transportation and I want to explore some off-roading too.

2. As for tires, what about the brands Pro Comp Tires or Mickey Thompson tires? A local 4x4 shop wants to sell me these 2 brands. Maybe I'm better off just getting a lift from the 4x4 shop and going to Town Fair tire supermarket for the tires?

3. I read great reviews of Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo, the Firestone Destination A/T's, the Perelli Scorpion AT's, and the Dunlop Radial Rover RVXT tires. Anyone have any advice regarding tire brands and models?

4. I read I don't need a lift for tire sizes up to the 31 x 10.5's I'm considering. So what is the point of a lift? In particular, I'm looking at a 2" suspension lift kit from BDS suspensions. What are the benefits of a suspension lift? Is that BDS one a good one? How do I know I'm getting good parts and proper installation?

5. If I do opt for the suspension lift kit, how much should I pay to get it installed? I live in Seymour CT, any locals recommend a particular shop they trust?