The advantages of putting a SAS into a later model IFS truck go beyond the newer body style. With the IFS trucks, you already have the right steering box for the highsteer system so that's one less thing you have to worry about. To achieve the same set up that most SASer go and using longer springs, you have to cut off the spring perches of a factory solid axle truck anyway and start over. The IFS trucks also have a wider stronger rear axle housing and come with more powerfull motors. Even the later model 22REs has more power than the '85 22REs. Then factor in that swapping cabs and beds is probably much harder for most people, especially if the working space is limited.

One advantage to going with a factory solid axle truck is that the frame is humped higher at the front end which allows for the use of lesser lift springs.

Either way some fabbing has to be done to achieve the same thing. The IFS trucks just have nicer features and are usually in better condition.

The solid axles drive just fine down the freeway. Plenty stable. The only differences are the noticably decreased handling since most us don't have a front sway bar.