Don't mind most of these guys, lots of them are keyboard wheelers anyways... Best thing is to ignore them...
As far as the front DS goes, I just went to the junk yard and found one out of a 2000 or one with low mileage. Think it calls for an 8mm wrench. Anyway all jeeps are effected differently, I have 4" lift on 33's and haven't needed a DS yet, but the 2000 I had needed just a transfer case drop kit. You can be very capable with 3-4" of lift and up to 35" tires (depending on how well you bump stop it) 33's would be your best route, you'll have a lower center of gravity and in some cases you'll make obstacles better than guys with bigger jeeps. Get yourself some rock sliders and better bumpers a front of rear locker (i like rear lockers but a lot like fronts better) and you'll be in the game to take on a lot of trails
If ya lived closer I'd help you more with a lift, but your a half day drive from me.
