Towing Upgrades for a 2004 Sierra 1500 4x4

[bambbrose]

Hey guys, my daily driver 2004 GMC 1500 4x4 is about to take on some extra towing duties.

My wife and I discussed upgrading to a 2500 or diesel, but we don't tow all that often and I really like my truck, so I've been considering just doing some upgrades.

My rear-end is a factory Posi but a 10 bolt I think 8.6". It had some shavings and what looked like parts of a needle bearing in the fluid last change. It's working fine now but I know it's a ticking time bomb.

I'm considering the following:
-Upgrading the rear to a 14 bolt (brake upgrade included?)
-Babying the 4L60E, but planning on swapping for a 4L80 at some point.
-Putting on some better springs/shocks (they are getting older now).

Anybody have any useful links or info on the above three tasks? Any reason I shouldn't head down this route?

I figure my truck is paid for, and I don't want a new truck payment, so why not just upgrade what I have and keep it that way.

I'll be towing a 6000 lb horse trailer (gooseneck), along with up to 3 horses and some gear. I'll be pushing 11,000 lbs worst case.

Thanks for any advice