Dealersips SUCK as said before. on that note run the 33s you should be fine, save to regear so you can run larger tires.

 

Nice to have a 3.5" lift....but you don't need that size lift to run 33's, or even 35's.
As others have said, you don't have to re-gear to run 33's. A Superchips will help a lot, but even that's not absolutely necessary.
Just be aware that your JK will feel different with the larger tires, and the speedometer will be off.

You can do a LOT with a budget 2" or 2.5" lift and 33's. Try it.....you can always go bigger later.

 

As far as spending a ton of cash...welcome to the world of modded Jeeps. It can become a very expensive hobby...

 

From what I know (and that isn't much), the best gear ration you could have gotten from the factory is 4.10. Most folks running 35's and a manual upgrade to 4.88's and many with auto's are thinking about 5.10's.

You probably would have wanted to upgrade gear eventually anyway. I got a used sahara that had a hook on the back, but no actual towing related equipment. I thought I had 3.73, but I got a call from the install that I actually had 4.10's. You never know what's inside those pumpkins!

The upgraded axles would have been nice. Also the electronic disconnect, but I have wheeled with some sports that had no issues on the trail....

Good luck!

Josh

 

Honestly, for 33's I see no need to regear. I'm sure it would help a bit, but running 35's with stock 3.21's, and regearing is the last thing I'm looking at, I don't see 33's and stock gearing having a big issue. Just sayin'

 

Completely agree since the wranglers come with 321/2 inch tires from the factory.

 

I think the bigger thing to look at is your driveshaft... I'm a bit surpriesed no one has pointed this out, but 3.5" of lift on a 2 dr could lead to problems with the driveshaft angle. Do another search on the topic and if its turns out true, go with a 2.5" and run 33's.. you'll be fine and not have to spend near as much. personally with 3.5" of lift I would go at least 35's and upgrade the DS.

Good Luck.

 

I run 35x12.5x17's on 3.21's right now, its okay. Even wheel with em and still get over stuff. I wouldnt sweat it about not re-gearing right away, you'll be fine.

 

Everyone is different... I thought 3.21's sucked with 32's.

 

He didn't get screwed. He didn't ask the right questions. OP - did you honestly ask the sales rep to outline the differences in the models? BTW, all that information is on the Jeep website... and was there when you were buying.

I know a lot of dealers and sales agents are looking for the easy score - but most dealerships want you happy, so you come back and continue to do service, etc... and recommend to others.

You should have pushed on your detail, done more homework, and pressed the sales rep for the 'resident jeep expert' at the dealership.

just my $.02