He has 31x11.5's, not std 31x10.5's...so they fill the wells better.
The PML doesn't increase the max tire size you can run...a stock 2004 or older X can fit 32's w/o any lift at all.
You do not NEED a BL until you want to run 33's.
The PML increases your ride height/ground clearance of the frame...but only larger tires can also increase your TOTAL ground clearance, by also lifting the axles/diffs, etc...which of course lifts the ENTIRE truck.
So the PML is a no brainer for most...but the BL is what makes your tires fit, and gets you the most ground clearance potential, by allowing larger tires...even though the BL all by itself doesn't increase your grround clearance.
(The BL does improve your approach/departure angles though....as it gets those pesky plastic parts up higher out of the way, etc...)
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- TJ
2001 Xterra '03 VG33, SE 5 spd, 305/70/16's, Revolvers, UBSkidderz, Doubled AAL's, 3"SL/2"BL, winch/bumpers, skids, sliders, OBA, Snorkel, pine stripes....
Friends don't let friends drive stock.
http://www.gifsoup.com/view/501230/tj-tackling-crawlers-ridge-o.gif