[James]

Personally I would leave the frame alone. Install power brakes. Attached is some pictures of my work on the brakes. The front spindles and rotor comes from an 82 GMC 2500. The brake calipers from an 82 GMC 1500. Then the master/power booster and proportioning valve is an aftermarket kit. The rear brake is the large Cadillac caliper with parking brake. The rear rotors and the caliper brackets was part of a kit (for a Dana 60 axle). Then plumb together. When connecting the power brake booster to the pedal, you will need to drill a new hole 1" above the old hole to obtain the proper ratio.

As for the ride, the front spring will be smooth enough. However the rear springs will need the overload springs removed and a few leaves removed from the mainsprings until you get the desired ride comfort. This will require shorter axle/spring U bolts.