Mild drop with bags/spindles questions

[earl84]

I am a long ways out from doing this and have asked questions in the past about bags, etc, but as I get closer to doing this I want to be sure I do it right and do it once.

I only want a mild drop on my 66 C20, like 3 in front, 4 in back. From what I have read, bags will give a great ride, and I would like that very much, in fact that is probably the main reason for wanting to use bags. I have also read that the best way to not mess with geometry and have alignment issues is to do drop spindles up front first, then add bags. Well, it seems like this is going to drop it too low for a mild drop. Either that, or I would have to air the bags up to such a high pressure to get it back up to the height I am after that the ride quality will suffer. So, what would be the best answer for this? Probably going to start with Schrader valves, as I am on a budget, and don't have any intention of airing down and up at all.

The rear seems pretty easy, just replace the current springs with bags, done.
I intend to keep the 8 lug, just to be different, and will occasionally tow, but not often. Mostly just using it as a daily driver and a Home Depot hauler.

I know it would be cheapest and easiest to use blocks in back and cut the coils up front, but I currently have HD 3/4 ton springs and it is very stiff. So at a minimum, I would probably need softer coil springs, and I figure if I am going to spend the money, and ride is a primary factor, why not just put the money towards bags.

Another important point; I am planning to swap in an entire front crossmember to get disc brakes and power steering as well prior to or at the same time, as doing anything to the suspension. Do it once hopefully, and do it right.
Any ideas/comments. Thanks, guys/gals. And as always this forum rocks.