Frame rivets and stuff for 71 Chevy Custom Deluxe?

[71CHEVYSHORTBED402]

Stage one cleaned the frame under the "missing" bed today, for the 71 Custom Deluxe. I hit it nearly 20 years ago with Krylon, and believe it or not, it's held up real well. A "couple" things have come up, including:

1. I found that one of the rivets for a leaf spring mount to frame is missing. I suspect it's been that way since new. I could just use a bolt, but nah, I'd like it to be right. Any recommendations? I don't have the equipment or knowledge.

2. I'm considering using POR15 Chasis black for the refinish. What's your opinion(s) on scuffing up what's there and applying it, as opposed to stripping this down to metal?

3. I'm thinking about removing the leaf springs for refinish. Seems to be straight forward. Support the axle, remove a bolt from each side of the leaf springs, remove the nut on top/center of the leaf springs (can't tell what type of bolt that is), and the four bolts from the hanger brackets. Am I missing something?

4. I need shocks. I'd like to stick to the original theme. Any suggestions?

5. I may want to replace the exhaust system. Again, I'd like to stick to the original theme. Any suggestions?


"couple things". Thanks for any input.