Along the way, in keeping with the "keep checking for good deals", I found a new set of 37" MTRs for sale with free shipping on ebay for $1000. Seeing as how I wanted 37s and a set of 4 would normally cost me 1300+ I jumped all over it!
Plans also include a 383, 6-7" lift to clear the tires, 700r4, 14bolt with disc brakes, and an 8 lug swap up front.
Well that's about it for now - will get back out there this weekend to keep the progress moving...