Hy JaysinSpaceman, lots of questions, as to the rear axle ratio, there my be some numbers stamped into the front of the pinion, just wire brush the heck out of it when you get the driveshaft off, there will be a part number for the pinion and hopefully some other numbers which represent the ratio, something like 6 - 42. As to the power steering there may be something in Tech Tips, or go over to the Old GMC trucks site Grigg is doing a Detroit Diesel swap with power steering, that is also where you will find ideas for Hydro-boosted brakes, hope that helps.
