I ended up going 5 turns each side from where it was. Driver side bolt was up a good amount further from the start. Is that normal?

Doing tie rods now, inner and outer, and when done I'll get an alignment. Ball joints seem fine for now.

 

Its normal, both bolts are set differently from the factory. As long as you come out level your good.

 

Yup! My technique...I crank both sides full until they bottom out. Then if one side of the truck is higher, lower that side to balance out and sleep well.

 

Hows the ride on something like that ..

 

Firm. Very firm.