Straight axle truck are, I think one of the most fun vehicals to drive since they handle,...they just don't some times, so you think quickly when you're driving too fast and have a few corners to take. If I were keeping my current truck, I'd keep the frontend stock forever. I like that kinda ride, you can't always drive like you would with a camaro and 'stang, but I tried and the truck only jumped off the ground a few times. It was scary but that was the best part. Manual steering is good as long as the truck is moving. Power is just better in tight spaces. I know the 'stang stuff isn't really stang, but I'd just still prefer using GM or "Brand" components. TCI, Fatman, Heidts, certain combos they all have. For steering, I'm just gonna get a box out of a 70 chevy truck, to put into my next truck, considering it doesn't have power. But that's only if I decide to get power.
Real men drive straight axle, manual steering trucks, like back in the good ol'days. And big rigs too

Nate