i had 4.10 gears and 4 speed . never used 1st much with even 35" tires . but jumped up to 38" tires and had to start more in 1st gear .
so short answer you prob wont notice much . .
look at tuff country suspension lifts for a good off the shelf ride .
ruff country ride just like there name . i wont even deal with them .
these people are SUPER quality service .
http://www.offroaddesign.com/catalog.htm
and as to shocks lots of guys are going bilsten shocks for the best leaf spring ride and shock combo .