I was experiencing almost the exact same scenario (minus the CEL codes) about 3 months ago. Replaced what I thought might of been a weak starting battery (4 years old) but that didn't do it. Inspected fusible links and those looked fine. Ended up replacing the starter and it has been good...
Go with the Old Man Emu 2.5" lift and 33 inch tires. Pretty common setup, affordable, looks cool, and you get to enjoy new suspension. Now post some pictures of this thing so we can see! Oh and... :flipoff2:Welcome!