There is nothing that can assist your Jeepucation like joining a club. These are people that share your same interests and heve the experience you lack. They can offer tools, assistance, ideas and muscle. You will learn how to modify, get connections for parts and supplies and your knowledge of building will get better and better. They also know and love to share the back country experience. Remember that with trail runs, if you start it, you finish it. You can get assistance with the obstacle or the climb. You'll learn all the ltlle tricks on driving a Jeep. Everyone will get off the trail and home.
Forums help, too. A free exchange of ideas. What you think may work may not. People will help you at most forums.
It can be exciting designing your modifications. It is a process that can reap many benefits. It can also frustrate you.
With the Mighty YJ, I did a 3.5" BDS lift. 33" tires. Winch. FIPK ram air filter. custom exhaust both pre and post catalytic converter. Soft top came later. Poison Spider cage later still (amazing how one near flop can inspire you).
The FIPK precludes a body lift as you would have to be inventive with a
throttle body spacer.
The final product is never done. Lights? Cage?
Locker? The list goes on and on... The Mighty YJ is also known as The Money Pit. But it is worth it when you hit a trail - And you conquer it!