another front suspension swap question

[hpcgmc]

I'm looking at alternatives for my 67 GMC front end. In reading about this, I see three options:
1. 1971 front discs
2. 1973 to 87 front cross member to get discs, more modern front suspension and power steering.
32. buy a disc brake kit and just install the disc brakes.

Here are my goals - I'm not building a show truck, but it's not my daily driver. I've had the truck for 30 years and plan to keep it for another 30 years. I want a good driving, good handling truck that I can run around town in and maybe take to a few local car shows. Whether I use my existing front end or a 73-87, I'll be replacing ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, etc, and probably adding a sway bar. Engine will be a sbc with 300 hp or under and probably a newer transmission (whole different thread). I will probably use the truck to haul my dirtbikes and bicycles around, and maybe tow a moto trailer, but mostly it will be a toy.

I want power steering and power disc brakes and probably a 3" drop to lower the truck. I don't know yet if I will keep 6 lug hubs or switch to 5 lugs. I have not invested in nice wheels yet, for this reason (and I believe the offset changes if I use 73-87 front end). I don't have a cutting torch or a welder. I'm good with bolt ons, but not so good with actual fabrication, so if fab is required, I'd probably have to pay for it (and I'm a cheap bastard!). I don't have the space to buy a 73-87 and have it at my house for months to dismantle it, then haul off the frame with no front suspension.

My questions:
will I get significantly better handling with a 73-87 front end?
How much work is the 73-87 swap vs. just adding aftermarket front discs and spindles?
how hard or costly to put in power steering if I don't use the 73-87 front end?

I know there are alot of variables, so I appreciate all the input I can get. I'm researching now and hope to figure out a plan and do the work in the spring.

Thanks!!

[steelhorse]

The 73 and up front crossmember will bolt right in place of your existing one. If you are going to replace all the ball joint ect. anyway it might not make much difference price wise. I am using the 73 and up upper and lower control arms just because I like the newer style bushings in them.

[PanelDeland]

Check your parts prices.IIRC the 73 up bushings,ball joints and such are cheaper.Probably about even on price either way but the 73 up stuff would probably net you PS for that price.Make sure you get the pulleys for the ps when you do this.And the pump with all brackets.Did I mention,you want to make sure you get all the pulleys from a truck that matches.Might grab all the acc. brackets just to be sure.Keep in mind that there are 2 different water pump lengths.

[John Fabris]

Where are you in NorCal?

I come across parts trucks all the time (example, 72 1/2 burb, with front/rear 5 lug suspension last week) and suspension already spoken for.

If you are close by, I will keep you in mind should I find another 71-72 1/2 truck to part out.

(not a for sale ad, I got the burb for free, suspension given to a friend for free) so if you are close, I scratch your back, you scratch mine.

[hpcgmc]

Thanks John, I'm in Auburn, only a couple hours from you. If you came across something in your neck of the woods I would be happy to make a deal with you and make the trip to Magalis.

Are the front suspensions off a 4x4, a 3/4 ton and a suburban, 73-87, all the same, meaning could i use the parts off any of these trucks?

Thanks guys!