Chrysler is selling new Jeep Wranglers from $30k to $50k... a $1000 lift would be a bargain then!
I just got online and built a 2019 Wrangler Unlimited MOAB... with the options that I would want, came out to $56,320 before taxes, dealer fees, plate and registration...
OK, so what the bloody hell is my point? If the KJ is in good condition, don't look at what it's worth in terms of what you could sell it to another owner for. Are you going to sell it? If no, then it could be worth $10 or $1M.. doesn't matter because you're going to keep it.
So, given that.. put what you want to into it in order to get it where you are happy with it. It is the end result that matters.. and it's your cash, so drop $8000 on a solid front axle conversion and a 4.7HO swap if you want to. It'll be bad *****-chuckin' ass!
So long as you're happy with it in the end. Street value is irrelevant.
Also, most agree that about 3/8", MAYBE 1/2" is max thickness for a top plate. No wonder 3/4" still gave you issues. 5/8" of clevis spacing is also more than accepted max...
Best to get the bulk of your lift from proper, quality springs, either OME, BDS or there was another brand someone got from overseas, I can't recall (but could search t his forum for it). Add in a 1/4" top plate and then after it's settled, space out the clevis to level it or bring it back up some.