Rich's Command Green Budget Build

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Continuing with my budget build, I decided to get rid of that unsightly third brake light "periscope" on the back of my Jeep. Picked up some Delta lug LED lights as a replacement. I took a Sawzall and Dremel to the third light, and hooked these up instead. Have to say I love the brightness of the LED's the sleek look, and the price. Had to file down the lights themselves so they fit snug in my lug holes, but overall everything looks good.
 
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I installed a Teraflex leveling kit today in preparation for my wheels and tires that I want to get in the next couple months. I decided to go with 17x9 Procomp 7069's and Goodyear Duratracs in a 33x12.5 size. The install was pretty simple, and the Jeep rides just like stock. Very happy with the look even with the stock setup.
 
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I've been doing a lot of work on the outside of the Jeep lately, so I decided to work on the stuff you don't see. Since the stock soundbar speakers are so lousy, I upgraded them to some Kickers I ordered from Mopar. For 80 bucks, the stock stereo actually sounds respectable. I also added a K&N drop in since my OEM air filter was getting a bit dirty.
 
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Was out wheeling the other day, when my stock equipment caused an issue. While cresting a sharp hill, my cheap plastic OEM side steps got torqued and ripped right off from the pinch seam mounting areas. Got my first metal carnage! So, needless to say, I ordered some rock rails and a cover-up for the lower panels. I'll post pics once they are on. I also realized I need new rims, tires and 3" lift now. Ugh.
 
Was out wheeling the other day, when my stock equipment caused an issue. While cresting a sharp hill, my cheap plastic OEM side steps got torqued and ripped right off from the pinch seam mounting areas. Got my first metal carnage! So, needless to say, I ordered some rock rails and a cover-up for the lower panels. I'll post pics once they are on. I also realized I need new rims, tires and 3" lift now. Ugh.

...the sickness of 'more parts needed' will continue for ever and ever and ever.....
 
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Got the Rugged Ridge rock sliders and RR rocker covers to cover up the trail damage. Hardly noticeable now, and I have some extra protection.
 
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In anticipation of my rim and tire install this weekend, I purchased the Flashcal to help correct the speedometer difference and also disable TPMS when I am off road and aired down. So far, this thing works great!
 
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Got the wheels and tires on, finally!! Three years in the making, but a lot of thought went into the combination. In the end, I went with 16" Procomp 7069's, BF Goodrich KO2's in 295/75/16. A little over 33" tall. I am loving the ride and the combo looks great on the CG.
 
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Tested out the new tires. Did pretty good in the slippery clay. Discovered I need to trim my fenders or get some new flats....:crazyeyes:
 
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I was getting irritated by the lack of light the stock halogens throw out, so I decided to stick with the budget theme and upgrade. I ordered a set of Delta Xenon hi/lo headlamps for 150 bucks. I haven't seen a lot of stuff on these headlights, but the few things I did see were positive and said that the difference was noticeable. I also liked the fact they were DOT legal, as some of my friends with LED headlamps had some really bright lights that blinded oncoming drivers. The install was fairly simple, and as you can see, the lights are a bit whiter than the halogens (fogs on for comparison). At night, the high beams work AWESOME, and the low beams do throw out a bit more light further and clearer.
 
Really liking the looks of that size tire. Love the KO2s, I miss them. They were on my old black rig! But, definitely considering them in this size when it's time for a tire upgrade :) nice build!
 
Thanks Napalm..yeah, I needed to balance the Daily driver with some practical light off roading, and I think I found the ideal match. I love the Pro Comps as well, they look minimalist, don't need much cleaning, and still look sharp. The KO2s are amazing..
 
Thanks Napalm..yeah, I needed to balance the Daily driver with some practical light off roading, and I think I found the ideal match. I love the Pro Comps as well, they look minimalist, don't need much cleaning, and still look sharp. The KO2s are amazing..

This is exactly what I am going for as well. Thanks for the recommendations :)
 
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So after installing the new fender flares, I did not care for the fact that the lack of a liner left parts of the engine exposed. And since I have an ugly stock suspension, I decided to trim the liners so I could reinstall them. I made two quick cuts with a saw and dremel, and screwed them back in. They are solid, don't flap, and do the job. Budget budget budget!
Sorry for the lousy pic; and for the majorly dirty flares.
 
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So here is the final product for now. I wheeled it this weekend, and it performed very well. Nothing broken, nothing rubbing and easy to clean up.
I don't have the funds to do anything else to it for a while now, focusing on home improvements and an upcoming vacation out west. The next thing I think I will do is a 2.5" or 3" spring lift with new shocks. But that won't be until next year. Signing off for now on the build...
 
Looks awesome Rich. This is exactly the direction I am going for my budget build whenever things slow down and get back to normal.
 
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