actually, 31's should fit on your stock jeep, if you do not get too carried away with off camber activity(off-road stuff) but if you want to be sure, do a 2 inch body lift, parts are less than 250 bucks, it is relatively easy to install, and the suspension will remain stock...and I agree with your evaluation, the 4 banger is pretty weak to pull much of a tire, although I do have aYJ with an 11 inch with 36's, but it only functions properly in the really rough stuff...be safe, keep it stock or near stock...