Ok, I officially declare this thread off-topic. If people are offended let me know and we can take it to email.

Geoff,

I'm definitely very concerned about moving from a solid axle to an IFS front end. The only reason I am considering the move is that ultimately the Jeep gets pretty bad gas milage (13-15mpg) and is really not "driveable" enough to use daily. I'm not looking for a dedicated rock-crawler, instead my goal is a truck I can reliably drive to Tahoe for skiing or take on trails up to about the level of the Rubicon without excess breakage. It seems that a moderately build 4runner could fit this bill.

Steve,

Thanks for the information! I think you're right, the 5spds w/ e-lockers are almost non-existant. I'm still not 100% sure I want to go with the 5spd, it is much nicer to drive on the street but autos do have benefits on the trail.

Thanks both for your iput.

- Matt