Okay, revise that. Did some checking when you said Moab's are 16's. Turns out you're right. And I don't have Moabs, I have Ravines. (Blow to the ego)
Keep it coming!!! I need to know wtf I am doing! I would like to have myself sorted out by the time I get down to talking numbers with Mosdif.
Thanks again for helping to straighten me out guys.
Ravines are nice wheels. I like they as much as Moabs, and tires are plentiful and less expensive!
With an LJ budget build, I would go with as much lift as I could from the start, considering your wheelbase and we always want a little more of everything, a little bigger tire, a little more clearance.
If you can't afford the SYE eliminator and CV shaft now, I think you should stay at around a 2" budget lift. Low cost, and easy to install.