lift questions...

1/2 ton 4x4 5.7L

ive been getting conflicting info from many people, so hopefully someone in here will give some solid info.

can i put a 6 inch lift on and not have to mess much with the drivetrain, such as longer driveshafts, and stuff of that sort? if a 6 inch is very involved, whats the highest i can go without too much messing around. and if anyone has theirs lifted, how does it handle compared to before it was. were the tradeoffs worth it?

if you have any opinions or knowlege id apreciate any of it :-) thanks guys

-Rob

P.S. how long should my tie rods, pitman arm, control arm bushings last? many are worn out, and lemme tell ya, they are not fun to replace...

What year????
Most years, 3" is the max lift without getting complicated. As far as your steering linkage...the life depends on your driving and maintenance habits. A lift kit will wear these parts much quicker because you putting stress on different than the design. If you're not sure how to check your steering components, take it in for a wheel alignment (at a reputable shop) and have the tech check it out.
As far as the benefits of putting a lift kit????Here's my two cents!
Why anyone does that is beyond me. It looks good, but the tires are more expensive, it won't drive correctly, any and all vibrations are amplified. If you're just Mudhogging in a 4X4 go ahead. If you're seriously trying to not get stuck in the woods, a 12,000lb wench and a good wench bumper are $$ better spent.