I have been building my truck without actually buying a kit, was going for AWD but didn't get it done. When I gave up on a driven axle I bought an Integy front beam axle kit, comes with everything and because I didn't buy a truck kit I needed everything. I'm happy with it but I can't say that is it soooo much better than having a Tamiya axle, it's just a little more pretty.
Also check out Bo's front axle mod.
http://rctruckandconstruction.com/sh...ad.php?t=12133