pre-IFR training/preparation?

Get the King's video course and watch it ALL the way through at least
three times (yes, three)... If you actually do that and work all the
problems in the book, you will be prepared for both your written and
the oral - there is a reason they stay in business decade after decade,
and that is results...
A good instructor is the next requirement, and really hard to find...
Like looking for a girlfriend, you are gonna have to keep trying until
you find the right one... Do not start out teaching yourself on a
simulator (a dunce for a student and a flaming incompetent for an
instructor is not a recipe for success) as all you will do is ingrain a
pile of really bad habits that are nearly impossible to break once
formed... Once you have an instructor have him/her set the protocol
for using the simulator...

Oh ya, and have fun...

Denny - who is looking for a break in his schedule to drag his carcass
off for the annual IFR refresher...

Ohhh, so I have an engine fire..
Lessee, where's the check list..
Hmmm, why is that red overvoltage light on..
Gee, the gyros have rolled over
And ATC says to remain clear of the bravo and expect further
instructions by 0378 Z
Golly why's that whistling sound getting louder..
And why is the heading gyro going around so fast