Going with a high-pinion axle will help if you keep the short driveline used with your Isuzu t-case... it is less of a big deal if you use a different tranny/t-case combination that winds up being longer. The FJ80 axle looks pretty cheap when you factor in the cost of retubing a Dana... still better if you can find one with an E-locker and the gears you want to go to.

Sounds like you have some pretty good wrench and fab experience/tools, so that's a step in the right direction. As for taking Dan's help, JUMP on that -- he's a talented fabricator and makes a mean latte' as well, just exercise some caution with the wheeled chairs at the kitchen table next to the expensive art glass. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/notooth.gif" alt="" />

I don't remember what the deal was with the steering pump, but I would actually expect it to work just fine with a normal steering box. The bets are off if you wanna run full hydro or assist, tho.

I agree with doing leaf springs to keep it simple -- they are WAY less complex than links and coils, though you do give up some flex. Pick your poison...

Randii