Not everything has to be expensive to be cool. We're so often caught up in the next big thing that we forget about some simpler things, which can be just as cool or just as necessary.
After exhaustive research with some catalogs we had close at hand, we came up with the 25 best things to spend your money on in the chassis and suspension category without breaking the bank.
1.Steering-box supports: $76.99 Once you've gone to 33- or 35-inch tires, you have started to test the limits of your frame where the steering box bolts in. The best way to reinforce that area is to tie the box into the opposite framerail or crossmember. Well, these steering-box supports can be found in the Quadratec catalog under PN 12518.58 (TJ-76.99), 12518.57(YJ-76.99), and 22518.57 ('76-'86 CJ-69.99).
2. Tow Hooks: $9.99-$19.99 Many organized trail rides won't even let you participate unless you've got front and rear tow hooks. And at these prices you'd be nuts to go wheeling without them. Available through Quadratec under PN 12007.02 ('76-'06 front) and 12107.04 ('97-'06 rear).
3.Teraflex Coil Spacers: $22.99-$27.99Used either with or without stock rubber isolators, you can get from 3/4-2 inches of lift for your '97-'06 TJ for under $30 a corner. Pick your spacer height and place your order through 4 Wheel Drive Hardware.
4.D-ring Receiver shackle: $24.99Having a removable snatch point can be very useful too. Aside from recovery, they can sometimes be used as jack points or tie-down points for cargo. Whatever your use for it is, it's available through Quadratec at $24.99 under PN 92144.101 (including the mount and the shackle), you provide your own pin.
5.Rampage D-ring mounts: $39.99If you don't like tow hooks because you are afraid of the line coming off the hook, never fear. You can get D-ring mounts from Rampage without spending a paycheck or two on an aftermarket bumper. The mounts are available through Quadratec.
6.JKS Shock Conversion: $29.99For either '97-'06 or '87-'95 Wranglers and available through 4 Wheel Drive Hardware, these conversions get rid of that goofy upper stud mount on the front shock. That stud mount limits the choices of available shocks, and for $30 you can open up a whole new world of shock availability.
7.Daystar Greasable Shackle: $79.99 per pairAvailable in any lift from 1/2-2 1/4-inches for '46-'95 Jeep Wranglers and CJs. The lift gives you that little extra height you might need to clear the new tires while the included greasable bolt and polyurethane bushings get rid of the sloppy dry rotted rubber you've got now. The shackles are available through Quadratec.
8.Daystar Greasable Shackle and Main Eye Bushings: $36.99-$46.99 Now for less than half a sawbuck, you can replace those worn-out leaf spring eye bushings in your '46-'95 Universal-style Jeep. The set, available through Quadratec, includes polyurethane bushing, greasable bolt, sleeve, and nut for specific application.
9.JKS Quick Disconnect System: $89.99For '76-'95 CJs and Wranglers and available through 4 Wheel Drive Hardware, these disconnects mean no more fumbling with wrenches and getting filthy and greasy just trying to gain some off-road prowess. Disconnect that pesky sway bar for under $100 and buy yourself a meal too.