I'm one who likes the original I beam front axles left in place on those trucks.
I like to go by the mantra of K.I.S.S.
Keep it simple, stupid.
If your truck runs and drives fine and is in good working order....why mess with it?
Get some lower leaf springs and drive drive drive.
Just my .02
As far as "Patricks lowered leaf springs" I have no clue.
But I do know you can take some leaves out of the original pack and lower your truck around 3".