I would just go ahead and pull the shocks because they look rough. But I also understand you have a few young in's, so finances may be a little tight.
Then do the frame measuring on a flat concrete pad. You could also measure from the frame to the axle on each side.

Back off topic, how is your friend doing with that 57 2-Ton I hauled to central Illinois a couple year ago?
He got a good buy on that one.

Don

1967 GMC 9500 Fire Ladder Truck
"The Flag Pole"
In the Stovebolt Gallery
1946 2-Ton grain truck
1946 3/4-ton pickup,
1953 1-ton pickup
1957 1-ton flatbed dually,
1954 Pontiac Straight Eight
Of all the things I've lost in my life, I miss my mind the most!