Yep, this is the reason why i didn't look for a high pinion axle. I want to run 5.86 gears (which i do now) and keep the choice to get lower than that if i ever go crzy with the tire size
I got a Chevy D60 with king pin knuckles, the big C's and upgraded to Dedenbear knuckles so the axle is as strong as it could get. I even reinforced the tubes with a additional pressed in tube. This should handle 44s and up
About the steering i did not have any opportunity to test it, but a cooler is in the plans as i'm looking for a hydr. milemarker winch too.
The e-brake lines are pretty long and i had to put them in circles (sorry for that, i don't know how to describe it) and am tightening down the e-brake connection thingy. It just shows reaction when pulling the handle so i will have to shorten the cable a bit and i'm sure it will work.
5.86 is great for the 37's on road and i don't regret getting this low. If i ever go over 40's i will go down to 7.17
For the coilovers - it seems to me the only choice i have. I want to keep road drivability and comfort as i want to have good flex off road. We don't have many off camber trails here and i never liked them. Too much risk for no fun

Does anyone have coil recommendations for a 2 coil coilover suspension? I will have a winch and winch bumper in front. What coil and shock setups (valving) are you running?