what should my first upgrades be?

[samm]

Hey guys, I have a stock inline-6 4.0L 2006 TJ.
Before I lift it and add bigger tires, what should I consider upgrading first?
I've done some research and so far the big thing seems to be the air filter and cold air intake.

What are your personal opinions? What brands should I look into?
Also, I'm university so there is the money factor, haha.
I don't plan to ever be a crazy off roader, so things like a snorkel aren't really in my plans.

But right now I just want ideas and input. The build up will definitely take a while.

Thanks all!

[binare]

Personally, Id leave the engine alone, cold air intakes do more harm then good, same goes for k&n air filters. It's a great reliable engine that doesn't need to be fugged with.

[JackstandJohnny]

truck nutz.

it will throw the boyz for a loop!

[samm]

truck nutz.

it will throw the boyz for a loop!

LOL, i was considering the decal 'this isn't my husbands vehicle' instead

[apeman]

Johnny has a set on his zj, cuz his other set is in his wifes purse.

[Drambuie89]

The first purchase I made for my 2006 was a winch. Then swaybar quick disconnects. These two items alone will allow your jeep to do soo much more than you may think.

[binare]

Skip the quick disconnects and go straight for the anti rock, much safer!

[BUKI]

No, no. Throttle body spacer. 

[BUKI]

In all seriousness though. A good tow point/tow strap and a tank of gas.  Go exploring and have fun

[hps4evr]

What is your goal with this jeep? Looks like daily driver with light wheeling on the weekends. A stock TJ can do amazing things. But stock isn't much fun. TJ's are like Lego, so many easy bolt on options. It's too easy to let it get out of hand. Keep it simple and basic. I'd upgrade for comfort, reliability and a few personalized mods. Better quality seats with heaters, upgrade the shocks, and a 1" body lift to clear a set of 31" tires on whatever rim looks good to you. If you want performance maybe a cat back exhaust and an electric fan. Air intakes do help but some filters let more of everything through.
Unfortunately this isn't a cheap sport.
The number one thing to do with your jeep is maintenance. Make sure you have tow hooks. Then go wheel it;)

[Drambuie89]

If you decide to run 31s, I have a 1" body lift (new in box) that we can negotiate over. I run 31x10.5 on my TJ (stock height) and I have no rubbing at full steer. Only a slight rub on the shock tower at full flex. I definitely agree with everyone here though: solid tow points front and rear and a good strap will get you on pretty much any stock friendly open run. Going out this Saturday if you are looking for the adventure.

[Spinalguy]

Most important question.
What is your total budget right now?

[samm]

Thanks for all the input so far guys
And yes, this is definitely my daily driver - with light off roading on the side.
It will remain my daily driven vehicle so I'm not looking to do anything outrageous. If the trail required a snorkel, I wouldn't be on board for that haha.

What is the benefit of doing a 1" body lift vs a 2" suspension?

[Moezer]

Thanks for all the input so far guys
And yes, this is definitely my daily driver - with light off roading on the side.
It will remain my daily driven vehicle so I'm not looking to do anything outrageous. If the trail required a snorkel, I wouldn't be on board for that haha.

What is the benefit of doing a 1" body lift vs a 2" suspension?

a body lift will just lift the body of the jeep frame it self, most people do it to clear the tires from rubbing on the body, suspension lift lifts the whole jeep frame but keeps the axles in place

[hps4evr]

1" body lift gives a little extra clearance for a larger tire. But it doesn't affect steering or suspension so it handles and rides the same but has the room for bigger tires.
There  are many ways to build a tj.
Research your options. Call/email some of the local shops and get their opinions and maybe even a quote.
Now go wheel it:)