The front end fasteners werent black oxide...I think GM used that type...Ford used the grayish color plating which when new looks really pretty..look at the undersides of the fender washers used when you pull it apart and you will see what I mean. Occasionally you might find one that had undercoating..those are the best...
I wouldnt go with stainless if you are going for total accuracy...way too shiny IMO...plus alot spendy...I imagine the desert SW has lots of old FoMoCo products with nice clean fasteners looking to be saved...
As for removal of originals...PB Blaster or similar, a good wire brush or two and 6 point sockets in 1/2 and 3/8" drives as well as the appropriate box end wrenches in 6 point.


- cs65