You can keep the beam axle and simply drop it or use different springs depending on how low you are trying to get. At this point you still have the original brakes and steering box. Disc brake kits are out there for your spindles and you could use a later model steering box, both will add to driving enjoyment somwhat.
Changing the front end to an independent of the so called Mustang II type gives you argueably better suspension and disc brakes along with rack and pinion steering. More work but it's all in one package.
Add up all involved to make the original axle the way you want it and include disc brakes and a newer steering box and then compare it to the price of a complete independent kit like from Total Cost Involved or Heidts or Fatman and see what is right for your ideas with the truck versus how much you feel like spending.
