Removing Every Other Leaf Spring

[Dan in Pasadena]

Those that have done this in the past; talk to me about it. I found this article online:

http://www.chevytrucks.org/tech/TF_lowering.htm

Yes, yes, yes, I KNOW that the accepted wisdom is to:

1. Graft a GM subframe onto my cutoff stock frame
2. Install an aftermarket Mustang II front end
3. Install either a dropped axle or a set of lowered or monoleaf springs.

I'm clear on all those. I've found lowered leaf spring sets at $389 a pair, so about $1000 for front & rear. I've also found dropped axles for about $400+ but they involve modifying the pitman arm, etc. Not to mention kingpin replacement (yes, necessary w/lowered leafs too). I'm trying to save money in the short run - a couple years (no, its not a daily driver) as I work out all the other mechanical issues and improvements.

Removing every other leaf used to be a common approach. I'm thinking of doing this, cleaning/painting, and adding Teflon between the leafs to improve the ride and new shocks (recommendation?)

Tell me your experiences, how difficult it is to do on the rusty old hardware I'll be facing, how long did you have it? Would you do it again?