EDIT: Ok @
rugcag let me redo this post now that I have a keyboard LOL
So first of all, from one vet to another, thank you not just for your service but for what you're trying to do here. A lot of vets lack the outlet needed to square their minds away. I'm getting another truck solely because I miss being able to swing a turn off a hardball onto the dirt and just go hang out in the desert. Fast cars are fun, but they lack the escape of a proper truck.
To your point, and what I said originally, Carli pintop is the way to go. These trucks have significant ground clearance as is, however, for your desire to run 40s, I'd suggest doing a 6" lift. (Carli Unchained) and pair it with single or dual King reservoir shocks. This setup will give you the height needed for your desired tire size, plus give you plenty of adjustability for on and off road dynamics. You can also couple this build with Carli's radius arm kit, as well as the remainder of Carli's suspension upgrades.
Carli builds suspension for Baja trucks that catch several feet of air off jumps, their stuff will handle some wheeling. My Carli commuter w/ Fox IFP shocks had zero issues at 70+ on the dirt and was stable as could be.
However, Carli's products aren't cheap, especially if you do everything (strongly recommend their balljoints, btw); but it'll be the best kit (and last kit) you buy. Also, don't forget that running 40s is absolutely going to require a significant regear.
My bottom line advice, find a solid shop and spec out what you want and have your truck built. What you're looking for is a significant overhaul and really should be done by a shop. I see you're in Florida, but if it's worth it to you, I have a shop here in Arizona that is a Carli dealer & certified installer, they've built multiple Baja trucks (they built my last Ram) and they do offer benefits for veterans.
Feel free to PM me if you wanna chat more.
Bookmarks