Hey Howard

Thanks Howard, I like the truck.

You asked about advantages of the tubular/crossmember like engine mount versus the more traditional? I guess too me, and just me, I like the tubular mount because-at least in my memory-the other mounts don't connect the left and right frame members? Maybe they do? And I like all the extra beefing up the frame that I can get. I'm always like that. Never too many crossmembers in a modified truck. That's my motto. I'm not an engineer or anything-maybe that's why I tend to overbuild stuff-because I'm not an engineer! There may be more oil pan clearance problems or just better planning needed to get things to fit with the crossmember type front engine mounts, but it looks super strong to me. Either is probably fine. Its just me.

And yes I kept the OEM brakes all the way around, and the only front suspension mod was that I went with the SACTO vintage Ford monoleaf front springs. Not the reversed eye mono springs, but the standard eye mono springs. I wanted it lower and tried the reversed eye springs, but there was zero suspension travel even after seriously cutting the OEM rubber frame/spring bumpers down to nothing. I sold those springs to a local guy who understood they were fine for "looks" and cruisin easy, but not functional for general street use. IMO anyway.

I don't have power steering, but I do have the F300? steering column box assembly (can't recall the exact model number-its in the shop book i have too late to go look,) but anyway a bigger truck. And it has more turns lock to lock as a power steering unit would etc so it seems almost like power steering. The previous owner put it in. I think front discs would probably be a good idea, I just didn't do it. ???

Goodluck Tom