[Funky61]

Hello Pops, Not sure if you were talking to me or OP but I have few observations.

I bought this Suburban back in 2007 and drove 700 miles one way from Redding to SoCal area. At the time it was stock (no P/S) and had 225 x 75 x 15 retreads. Made it without a hitch. I don't recall the steering being too bad, but excitement from a purchase will cloud a memory.
I do know the P/S upgrade made a big difference in the trucks utility; just so much easier to park. Also the radials. as you stated, helped the ride out a lot. The torsion front end allows a nice, smooth ride. A front anti-sway bar would also improve this I'm sure.
Rides much better then the 1970 GMC 2500 I used to have and only slightly less comfortable then the 1973 GMC I had as well.

Maybe the old GM guys were referring to the stocker/cookie cutter wheel look. Been a while since I drove on bias ply type tires and I recall they used to "hunt" a lot on the highway "looking for the groove."