I like the fact you're going to go "old school" this time around. Nothing against those who want to upgrade suspensions and all that, but if I want to drive a truck with power steering, power brakes and all that, I've got my '93 Z71 sitting out there. I like the old truck ride and feel. I'm thinking about a dropped axle too, right now I'm just running mono-leafs in front. I just put a new set of radials on, and it steers, stops, and rides good enough for me. Good luck on your project!!