I have personally put over $5000 into my truck, as well as having done 100% of all the labor to do the work I do. Part of this includes engine modifications, as well as suspension/exhaust/wheels/tires.
When you lift a truck and suddenyl get into the 33-35" tire range, expect to pay over $300 per tire. After having dumped about 1600 into my wheel and tire setup, and an extra 400 for a matching full size spare - it definitely eats into your budget.
The difference is, I actually take my truck out and use it like a beast. Just last weekend I was out strapping 50 feet of snatch straps and tugging trees off a fencing system so I could repair it.
I lead a busy life, and my work has needs of a good truck. Plus, when I get 2+ feet of snow, I woudl rather not be forced to shovel the driveway in and out several times a day. Would MUCH rather just plow through it in 4x and continue on my merry way!
This picture is abot 2 years old.. and have since made custom HID projector headlights. Plus, this was all cleaned and spiffied up for a truck meet we had. 30+ people attended, had a blast!