[Riveted1]

Maybe I'm starting to show my age, but I would never skimp on my suspension. I know lots of ppl do it, but when I drive a vehicle, I want it to ride and perform well. You can get fairly cheap kits for that body style that will give you either a 2/4 or 4/6 drop (front/rear) that will set it down pretty good and it will be level.
Here is an example... Drop Kits You could also piece together a kit since you already have the shackles for the rear. Belltech, McGaughy's and DJM all make quality parts for that truck.
If you really must go cheap, don't heat the coils. That is the worst thing you could do.