Dave...I wanted to do the same this on my '41...I replaced the rear end on my truck with a late 70's Blazer rear and had to install tube shocks. But your right, I could carry a tank in the bed of that truck and the springs would barely bend.
And I did some research on lever action shocks...did you know they last 3 to 4 times longer than tubes and give as good a ride? It appears to be worth it to have your fronts or rear rebuilt (if they need to be!).


Steve G.
--------------
1942 Chevrolet 1/2-Ton Pickup Truck