Thanks for the input guys! I see that Toytech has a 1" drop kit for the differential which is supposed to prolong the cv joint life. Based on the replies above I am guessing this is definitely a recommended item
I am still on the fence with whether to lift or not, but I have decided that if I do the lift, then I'll do it right. Doing it "right" from Toytech seems to be the Light Racing/Donahoe coilovers, Bilstein rear shocks, and Toytech custom coils. It's definitely not the cheapest route compared to other lifts I have seen but I figure if I spend extra up front then I'll likely save $$ down the road and have more piece of mind.
Thanks again,
Alphonse