2003 Rubicon, 136k, shocks, etc. need to be replaced. Looking for a moderately capable above stock mudder/light rock climber, for use during winter and for weekend excursions.
a stock Rubicon with 31s is plenty capable enough for your light usages.
I was thinking a 2.5" lift with 33"s would be sufficient.
no, you'll need more than that.
33's are fit in two common ways on TJ's:
1. 4" suspension lift, with ~2" bumpstop extensions in front and ~2-2.5" in the rear. Requires a SYE/CV shaft.
2. ~2-3" suspension lift, with a 1.25" body lift, with 1-1.25" bumpstop extensions in front and 1.25-1.5" in the rear. The 1.25" BL usually accompanies a 1" Motor Mount Lift to offset some of the driveline angles.
Either way you go, figure on some or many of the following components: longer front brake lines, extended sway bar links front and rear, gears, brake and steering upgrades to accommodate larger tires, SYE, CV shaft, bumpstop extensions, new shocks, adjustable track bars, and a rear track bar bracket.
My local shop recommended a RC 2.5 lift for $300. Teraflex minimum $1,000. As a new Jeeper, is it worth it to go with the RC if you have the means to go big?
I wouldn't recommend either of those. Keep looking, and find a different shop. Better yet, don't go to any shops...do the research and learn for yourself. Install the parts yourself. Also remember a "kit" is nothing but a bundle of components, often a very incomplete bundle.
I hear people hate on RC gear all the time on here so, I'm wondering, what is your opinion on their stuff for someone who may or may not want to drop the cash to have a truly awesome machine? Is it worth throwing $300 away on?
Different strokes for different folks. Remember, free advice is often worth less than you paid for it.
You have to understand some people don't have the knowledge to comment, but they still comment out of ignorance. People often have not driven their Jeep with a wide variety of lift brands, but whatever they just bought is the best. To them it is because they replaced 10-15 year old worn out components...but anything is better than busted junk!!
Some people are happy with mediocrity. Some people have unrealistic expectations. Some people are only concerned with one aspect of "performance".
I happen to be one that is not happy with mediocrity, and want better performance everywhere...better ride, better traction, better safety, better steering, better stopping and more suspension travel - but well rounded travel, I'm not talking about "flex". It's about the package, and how everything works together.
Here's my junk running 33s.
Take your time. Save your money. Do your homework, research, search, read, then rinse and repeat. Do that for several months, maybe even a year. Then make an educated decision based on your needs/budget/knowledge.