Hi Greg, welcome. Glad you finally acquired the truck, just hang on to it and get her on the road. I also have a half ton, ('53) 4 speed truck. It was an option on the half tons and standard on the bigger trucks. You won't be needing the first gear except it's handy for loading onto a trailer.
I also got the Patrick's set-up, had the local machine shop guy install it and I am very happy with it.
Sounds like you have a good plan, hopefully it will work out for you.
Leo
