BTW great job on that paint on the tintop sami.  At first glance it looks like a removeable hardtop, then you realize it's a tintop rig...great job

I second this. 

As for the recommendations, what I would do is just get some meaty looking 235/75 R15 tires under your Samurai for now.  Then save up a bit and go for the SPOA and a 4.8:1 or 5.8:1 transfer case kit so you can run the 31" tires.  I like the Sky Manufacturing Basic SPOA kit myself, mainly because of the wrap-around spring perches that make getting everything to fit properly a breeze.

A good SPOA will give you room for 31" tires without having to do much else.  I was able to squeeze 33" tires on my SJ with a straight SPOA on the first version of it's build with rear fender trimming.  Personally I am not a fan of body lifts.  They don't look quite as nice, but I do recognize they have their place. 

Original Build:



Current Build:

First off congrats on starting your build, start a thread in the DIY section and post some pics!  I have to agree with the RRO sintiment.  thats where i got my 5" SPOA and i regret it wholey and completely.  they have terrible customer service (i called to tell them they sent me the wrong piece and the guy started yelling at me sayin i had to pay for the right part) and some of my parts were rusted when i got them. 

What are you planning on doing with you zuk?  Rocks? Mud?  i started were you are a while ago, its awesome to learn and you learn fast, hopefully wit your step dad it will be guided so you dont always doit the hard way like i did.  Where are you located?  its my experience that most the ppl on here love to help if you need it

heres my build, if you have any questions, ask away, ill try to answer
http://www.zukiworld.com/forum/build-diaries-how-to-diy/87-sami-project/