Front Spring Replacement ('64)

[javadoc]

Okay, my searching skills must just be totally lacking because I couldn't find what I was looking for. Here's my situation:

I have a 3/5 kit that I want to install on my '64 C10 stepside, and the rear looks super straight forward with 4" springs and a 1" block, new Belltech shocks and adj. trackbar, bushings, fasteners, etc. The front, I'm not sure about what is involved, but it can't be rocket science. Can someone point me to a How-To for the fronts? I'm just putting 3" springs and new Belltech shocks up front, and probably replacing every single wear item and fastener up there because it's super loose. And... is this like a Saturday project, or a weekend-long project generally for the normal (thorough but not slow) shade-tree guy?

Also, do I need to use a spring compressor for the front springs? While I don't cherish the idea of my abs being perforated by a coil spring, I gotta wonder if it's necessary.

Thanks!