You're thinking along similar lines to us, but we're hoping that the ute's stopping and turning can be improved by converting to power assisted rack and pinion, macpherson strut front end and all wheel discs. It's a fairly common modification and the converstion kits seem easier to get hold of than the original parts. It's a straightforward bolt on, no fabrication required. I'm not sure what we'll do with the rear end, but I'm sure there are plenty of aftermarket springs and swaybars which will screw it down a bit harder.

In the meantime this is going to be an interesting ride. It's 350 miles one way, not 35, I left a zero off in my original post. I don't know how much of it I'll drive myself, but there are some nice easy stretches for a learner to get a feel for the vehicle.
--
Drive it like you hate it