pre-IFR training/preparation?

I second this! I started off with one that wouldn't fly actual in the
rental birds, and migrated to one who loved to. WHAT A DIFFERENCE! If
you can find a CFI who is willing to fly hard IFR at night with you,
you'll be getting a much better education than otherwise.

As a side note, our local FSDO does accident talks and one of the big
causes of fatal crashes they are always listing is freshly rated
instrument pilots going into actual for the first time.

As for prepping, King CD roms/DVD are good. I'd also recomend
Kershner's instrument text and the Jeppesen weather text. You'll need
to undrestand wx like the back of your hand. Hood time with a safety
pilot under flight following is a good way to start building experience
as well as hours.

Helen