I think its as simple as supply and demand. There is not much demand for the 8-lug stuff. And many of the 1/2-ton products were developed when the economy was stronger. Now as more people seem interested in the 8-lug trucks, money to create products is tight.
Since I'm a hot rodder instead of a restorer, I am not real worried about parts availability as I build a 1-ton hot rod trailer puller based on a GMC.
So far I've been able to find everything I really need.
