Front K Member - Minus 5"

[jra1950310006]

I am building a 1950 3 window with a small block and a 4 speed.
Decided to swap a 1970 front end onto truck. These units - 67-72 bolt to the frame which is why I selected it. The front end measures 63" wide mounting face to mounting face. This needs to be reduced to 58" to keep same dimensions of old truck.

Has anyone sectioned a front end K member? Did you use a cutting torch, band saw or take it to the machine shop? Did you put plates on it afterwards to reinforce? Will this make it to week?

It seems to me if you narrowed the front end none of the geometry would change. The engine is already being mounted to a universal cross member.
Am I missing something here or am I onto something new? (I doubt it)

Also - has anyone done a rack and pinion on this style front end?
Any feedback is appreciated.

Background - I am doing this as a cheap independent suspension upgrade. I got the whole front end for $200 - which included disk brakes, power steering and independent suspension. A good deal in vs aftermarket.