Basic, easy first modifications for a newly bought Samurai.

• Remove anti-sway bar. This bar seems to do nothing to improve the handling, but hampers articulation.
• Install 2" longer shackles. This would be mainly for clearance for 29"-30" tires.
• Mud Tires. I have used 29" Wildcat EXT mud tires with GREAT results. If the springs are in very good shape, 30" might clear if the spot weld lip at the rear of the front fenders is gently hammered flat.
• Remove cold-start heat riser tube, and block the hole where it enters the airbox. This is to ensure no mud enters the airbox through or around the tube.
• Use a small amount of silicone sealer at all intake tube and airbox connections.
• Remove all underhood electrical connections and apply dielectric grease, or better yet, silicon to the connections. Include spark plug wires and bottom of distributor cap.
• Remove carpets. This is quite optional, but I have found once the carpets get wet and muddy, they are junk. If you remove them before they get submerged, at least you can reinstall them later.
• Remove the package shelf from under the passenger's side of the dash. I have learned the hard way (twice!) that passengers like to keep their feet dry, and when water comes in the vehicle, the package shelf makes a great place to put feet to keep them dry. This only works once, however, because the shelf breaks and the feet get wet anyway.
• If possible, replace the mechanical clutch fan with an electric fan with a thermostatically controlled switch and a manual override for deep water crossings.
• Remove weak front bumper and replace with a quality aftermarket bumper or a custom (homemade) one, preferably with tow hooks. The reason for this is the 4 small bolts which hold it on. The smallest impact with anything more than a half grown fern will result in the bumper unbolting itself and becoming embedded in the front tire. This was also learned from experience.
• Remove the trailer hitch. The hitch is a great place to tow or be towed from, but it also has a habit of hooking on rocks, stumps, and the half grown fern from the last tip. Tow hooks should be installed here also.
• Modify door hinges to allow for easy removal. This is personal choice, but I happen to love the open air feeling. Make sure you mount mirrors to the body.
• Hinges can be purchased to allow the windshield to fold onto the hood. For same reason as door removal.