It is my understanding and I have been told this by several people that the DI axles are almost as strong as Dana 44's.
Heavy duty axles are a easy upgrade but no needed unless you are going crazy big on rubber.
As far as rim choices, if you can fab you can make spacers with the bolt pattern you want.

 

I run 7.50x16's, which are about 32" OD.
It all depends on where you drive and how you drive.

 

I think 2-3" lift with 31's would be more than adequate for anything I would ever be doing so I think I am safe on this one. Which is good cause the Jeep will have to eventually be upgraded. Don't want to pay those prices on both my toys.