1956 4x4 Build Steering Q's

[nbean1973]

I'm about half way through a build of my '56 3100 4x4.
Details on the truck include:
OEM '56 body & '56 frame
'73 K5 Dana 44 front, '73 K5 GM 12 bolt rear w/Richmond PowerTrax locker NP205, NV4500
388 stroker
Front suspension: '73 K5 leaf springs
Rear suspension is NOS '56 HD leafs.
2" lift in the rear to level the stance of the truck.

I rebuilt both axles, front diff, transfer case, brakes, (front disc, rear drum) and added firewall brake pedal with firewall mounted MC and prop valve.

I need advice with steering mods. Here's why...

PO installed GM 4WD Saginaw mounted exterior on frame and used stock drag link & pitman arm. I have upgraded with Bulletproof tie rod and drag link with their heim joints. PO Saginaw box install was not well done, b/c box is secured to frame rail by 3/16" scab plate welded to frame; only the two upper mounting bolts on Saginaw are through the frame. Lower two Saginaw mounting bolts are attached to scab plate, but are not through the frame. However, PO did hang Saginaw box directly at intersection of front x-member rather than forward or aft of the x-member. My dilemma..

1) Should I remove the Saginaw box and re-mount with a 1/4" scab plate in such a way to have all 4 mounting bolts go through frame? ...3 out of 4 of the mounting bolts through the frame, (like the CPP or Brothers kits)?

2) Should I fab a backing plate to beef up the frame?

3) Rather than keeping the "stock" style steering arm, pitman arm and drag link should I upgrade to crossover steering?

My primary objective is to have a safe truck that steers well and as much as is possible eliminates the negative aspects of the stock steering issues for the straight axle 4x4's. The truck will be used for surf fishing, farm work and occasional camping trips. It will not be wheeled or driven as a rock crawler. Thanks for any constructive advice on the steering mods.