So far after the bumpers and lift I've currently selected, I'm sitting right around $3k after shipping.

I can put the other $1k into maintenance and possibly swing the tools outside of my $4k budget, if nothing too expensive or specialized is needed for the work I need to do. I currently have half a case of diff fluid, extra air filter etc.

I'm pretty new to lifts etc. so I'm really grateful for all the advice here. I want to do things right and get as many miles and as much life out of my 4Runner as possible, so if I gotta spend more to get the vehicle ready for a lift vs buying cool parts I will.

I'm sure there are lots of 4Runner owners in Denver so am going to see if I can find a local 4x4 group or something as well.