Finally getting a 72...

[lonewolf187]

After so many years of trying to find the time and money, im finally picking up a 72 this weekend (God Willing...)
Just a few questions if you guys would be good enough to help a newbie out.

1) The one im looking at has an 8" lift in the front where they replaced the leaf springs, but in the back they did a 6" and just used blocks. The stance still looks decent but I am concerned with the force put on those long U bolts. Should the 1st thing i do be to replace the leafs back there or will i be alright for awhile?
2) Are the stock axles strong enough to support the 36" all terrains he has on it?
3) I have heard tell that people have been able to put a suburban bench in the front of these. Are these rumors true? (He has stock in the front and they are pretty wrecked.)
4) Given the 6" lift in the back and the 36" tires should i be concerned with the 4 hours of freeway driving i have to put on it? (He has a recently rebuilt 350 motor with a TH350 tranny that has around 20k.) Specifically im worried about the 3 speed at freeway speeds.

And lastly I have done alot of research on what to look for when buying one of these beauties, But if anyone has any other ideas as to what to look for I would appreciate it.

I will post pictures this weekend.