Yeah that always bugged me as well. I could see the transfer case on mine until I installed the kilby skid plates & rock sliders which make the under carriage look uniform.

You're right about the lifts. A suspension lift will show the lower links more and a body lift will show the frame/links more. Rocksliders, steps or skid plates will help cover up the under carriage and give you a cleaner looking side profile.

Evil, do you have a good pic? I don't ever remember seeing the tranny on a side profile...