Things I'm considering as a requirement before I put the 35s on.
Steering linkage upgrade, possibly the Iron Rock Offroad one. http://www.ironrockoffroad.com/Merchant2/TJ_XJ_ZJ%201_2%20OTK%20Steering%20System%20Install.pdf
New steering stabilizer (I need one anyways, still running the stock one from circa 2003), looking at the OME one I guess, is there really much of a difference?
Things I'd like to do anyways
SYE kit, new CV drive shaft, + adjustable arms
maybe a new gas tank skid to replace the dented one...
Regarding tires, I'm still favoring the Duratracs, but I am starting to consider the MTRs w/ Kevlar.
Any thoughts?
Problem here is that your "list" of things to do for 35's should be on a rig with 33" tires anyway. The only thing you should consider above and beyond your list is chromo shafts (as mentioned)....IMO you may as well run 35's. 33" will still fubar your rig up good unless its built up with the parts on your 35" tire list!
on 33" tires Your still chewing through units bearings, your mileage will still blow and your jeep won't be any more practical! DD 33" tires compared to 35" didn't change much for me...and I went from a 33x10.50 to 35x12.50.....
That said...the fact your are seriously considering dura-tracs as your primary tire tells me that...right now, 33" tires are good enough!
**Disclaimer
** Duratracs are great tires! a fine trade off for the Weekend warrior, my comment simply suggests that you are not willing to put up with the draw backs of a full M/T for maximum performance. Clearly road driving is key! In the future under differing circumstances this may change. I could be wrong, this is my personal opinion/interpretation and no personal attack or insult is intended.