Cool another Flattie, I also wheel a 51'. Air cond and wheelin...
anyway, some food for thought.
if money is tight, instead of a lift kit do a Spring over (thats what I have on mine) it will get you some flexing and a whole lot cheaper. on the locker is your rear axel still the original 10 spline?? if so I have my old one that is like new I can make you a deal on. I had a outer bearing spin and woble out the housing, so I used that for my reason to put my 19 spline in. that engine and tranny combo are great, one og the guys I use to wheel with put a Iron Duke in his MB. if the spings are too stif you can take some of the leafs out.
Rich