Since starting on simvastin along with plavix (clopidogrel) following a mild stroke 7 months ago, prior gout was a nuisance, now chronic, should i switch to lipito?

Debatable: atorvastatin (Lipitor) is a more potent "bad-cholesterol" lowering medication than simvastatin (Zocor), but it's also not as thoroughly tested for stroke prevention as tried-and-true simvastatin, so many neurologists choose to recommend the older, better-known option. Cost often is a factor as well. Either could be a reasonable option depending on your situation: ask your neurologist though.