New Radiator what else?

[1964Chevy]

I ordered an aluminum rad, 16" electric fan, thermostat controlled switch with A/C override.
I plan on replacing top and bottom rad hoses, thermostat gasket (it's seeping), alt and A/C belts, and checking that the water pump is working.
My old radiator is leaking in several spots. I like the looks of an open area in front of the motor, my truck has never overheated (knock on wood) but I know the rad is going fast, new leaks everytime I look.
My question, if it was you what else would you do with the rad and fan out of the way?
PS, it appears that the water pump is working fine, what is the shade tree mechanic way of checking this with all the stuff out of the way.
Bought a 3 core aluminim rad with a 16" fan, supposed to pull 2500 CFM, from Reliableradiator.com
Hope you all have a safe happy new year.