On #2, have you attempted to adjust the bars back up? There's an adjuster screw (should have a 3/4" hex head) on the crossmember. Unless the bars have been clocked incorrectly, you should be able to get the ride hight back to spec by cranking the bolt in. You may want to hit it with some Kroil or PB before you try it.
For #3, an entire front crossmember from a '63-'87 Chevrolet truck can be adapted to your frame.'71-'87 would get you disk brakes in 5 lug.
