Yj On 37s

If you are a proud owner of a Jeep Wrangler YJ and are considering upgrading to 37-inch tires, you’re on the verge of tapping into a world of off-roading adventure. It’s undeniable that the larger the tires, the more capable your Jeep becomes in tackling challenging terrains. But, before slipping those big hoofs on your rig, it’s essential to understand the implications, modifications, and investments required. Let’s dive deep into unraveling what it means to have your YJ on 37s.

Understanding the ‘YJ on 37s’ :

Putting your “YJ on 37s” refers to upgrading your Jeep Wrangler YJ’s tires to 37 inches. Your Jeep YJ was initially designed to run on 28-inch tires, meaning switching to 37-inch will drastically change its performance and appearance. Moving up to 37-inch tires will offer your YJ extra ground clearance and the ability to conquer tough obstacles with comparatively lesser strain.

However, this transition isn’t just about swapping the tires. It calls for certain amendments to harness maximum benefits, including upgrading your axle, gearing, suspension system, and more.

The Impact of Upgrading Tire Size:

The first noticeable impact: Your Jeep gets a muscular, aggressive stance, transforming its visual appeal. On the functional side, larger tires improve off-road capabilities by offering better traction and ground clearance. It can keep your undercarriage safe from rock damage, enhancing the overall lifespan of your adventurous buddy.

However, these larger tires also demand more power to move. You may notice your Jeep’s power and fuel efficiency decrease unless you adjust your gear ratios accordingly. Additionally, the increased weight and size may strain the braking system, requiring an upgrade for safety.

Modifications Needed When Upgrading to 37-inch Tires:

Before hoisting 37-inch tires on your YJ, consider these essential modifications to ensure your Jeep can handle the transformation.

Axle Upgrades:

The stock axles on your YJ aren’t designed to handle the strain of 37-inch tires. Upgrading to stronger axles will prevent premature failure while on your off-road adventures, where the last thing you want is a broken axle.

Here’s a handy checklist for axle upgrade:
– Consider Dana 44 or Dana 60 axles for the front and back
– Look for axles with reinforced brackets and large bearing ends
– Make sure the axles have sufficient splines (at least 30)

Gearing Changes:

Your gearing ratios need to be recalibrated to accommodate the larger wheels. You will need a lower gear ratio to maintain performance capabilities and fuel efficiency. A popular choice among majority Jeep owners is upgrading to 4.88 gear ratio.

Suspension Upgrades:

A lift kit is obligatory when accommodating 37-inch tires to ensure enough clearance, preventing the tires from rubbing against the body of your YJ. Although a 3-inch lift can get the job done, some off-roaders prefer going as high as a 6-inch lift for a pronounced rugged stance.

Brake Upgrades:

The addition of bigger, heavier tires means your YJ requires more stopping power. Upgrading your brakes not only compensates for the extra load but also enhances safety, particularly for downhill descents or emergency stops.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. Can my YJ’s stock axles hold up with 37s?

No, the YJ’s stock axles aren’t suitable for handling the stress of 37-inch tires. An upgrade to stronger axles is imperative.

Q. Can I skip upgrading my braking system with 37s?

While it might feel tempting, it’s not advisable to compromise your safety. Larger tires demand more stopping power, and a brake upgrade is a must.

Final Thoughts:

Upgrading your YJ to run on 37s takes you into a realm of unmatched off-roading capabilities. However, taking this leap calls for essential modifications to make your vehicle compatible with the new size. It could be quite an investment in terms of effort, time, and money, but the bottom line is, the joy and adventure that follow are well worth it!

Remember, the highlight of owning a Jeep is its capacity to be customized according to your requirements and adventures. Happy Jeeping!