Well, I am back home with a bit more observation:

On the ticking:

• I am thinking more and more that it has to do with the main pulley/acc belt
• Gas mileage at ~60MPH netted 26.5MPG - ~70MPH 23.5 - I take that to mean that the engine is working properly and has been well maintained
• I am a DIY guy - to a point. You mention the word camshafts and I run screaming into the night. I am going to get at least one set of professional ears on it and see what is found. I bet that the sound goes away with the 90k service and fuel routine I have planned.

Other:

I now know what the ball joint/sloppy steering feels like lol. That and the water pump/timing belt are going to be resolved in the next week or so. Even with the sloppy/wobbly (at 70-80MPH) front suspension issues this car is fantastic. There is plenty I want to do, $$$ will be the only thing holding me back.

You guys and gals have been the catalyst for my entry into the Lexus world and I thank you all. I drove over 1000mis (round trip) to get mine and am sure the trip was well worth. Thanks for the welcoming and advice. My expertise is mostly personal computer oriented (and graphic design, multimedia) so if anyone has questions along those lines, give a shout!