66 K20 4X4 third drive line and leaf springs

[strongarm]

I was wondering if any one has done away with the third drive line from the trany to transfer case and if so how? can you get a cuppler? also I want to get new leaf springs but their is about a 5 inch block between my spring and axle was that stock? and can I or should I try to get higher arched springs I am wanting to use the truck for mounatins and the stock springs are around 12 to 1400 dollers for all, does anyone know a good place to get leaf springs?