It solves vibration issues in some cases. Sometimes you need an SYE.
Only lose 1in of clearance but you can run 1in bigger tires without trimming, so you really only lose .5in clearance. :P
I never had an issue with a tcase drop when I had one, never scraped anything. If he's not tackling ultra large boulders, he'll be fine.

Still would need an adjustable trackbar and longer brakelines though, or he can relocate the trackbar and the brakelines (which I wouldn't consider the "right" way to do it).

 

Ok now I'm considering a 3" lift cause I really don't want to get into it too heavy with modifications. It's never as easy as it sounds lol.

 

You said it man.. I don't wanna be that guy, but it sucks getting in over your head on a project... Small bites, if you've got the patience. Either save up for the real thing, or go budget boost (BB) for now.. For under 100 you can do a 2 or 3 inch "lift" that is comprised of poly spacers for the front and either an AAL or drop shackle for the rear.

As stated, there are some ways to save cash by doing a 30 dollar track bar relocation bracket, instead of a 200 dollar new adj bar. Also, the TC drop is an alternative to the SYE kit. At ~3" you probably won't need to mess with break lines, but do an incremental flex test to make sure, if you want. Fender trimming cost me 5 bucks in used tin snips. So, yeah. Do some searching on here and google. The more you stumble around the info you more you learn! Good luck!

 

Just a little update. I've decided to go with the 4.5 lift figured I'll learn as I go. Not sure what size tires yet. Took rear end out to replace carrier bearings and one shim was cracked and the other was broke so now I have to figure that out. Looks like I have to buy a shim kit.