look through the s10 swap how to in the FAQ section. you can even find my first questions on a 47-53 swap in there. skymangs is a dynamite human being and still aanswers questions.
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=632686
I dont think you would need a mounting kit, but lots of good ones out there if you do. I like using the 98+ s10 donors, better engine, better electronics, better fueling. if you ever wanted to swap an LS style engine the 98+ just needs an adapter harness and 2000+ can even use the same pcm.
look through the build threads in the project section, lots of different ways to solve the same problems. I mentioned hussey, he has a build thread with a second mount design too.
I dont like the 98+ ford explorer IFS, ford always seems to use too short a spindle and it makes it hard to lower without crazy camber unless you raise the upper mount. the rest all sounds good though, rack steering is a big dea with the front sheetmetal, you wont need to cut it out like I do an a s10 steering box.
good luck!