Nothing wrong with keeping it original. If we are talking about a 1957 3100 just rebuild what you have.
Have you confirmed the tie rod and drag link ends are all good (no play when rocking the steering wheel)? What about the King Pins? Have you adjusted the steering box per the Shop Manual instructions?
It will take a lot more money and effort to install a different steering system than it will to fix the original...new parts are available.
Mike B
