Just starting to build a 31 2 door sedan rat rod

I am 25yr old and completely new to building a hot rod. So please keep that in mind as I try to enplane my new project questions.
This past Friday I started building my first car ever. I am a machinist by hobby and have been working out of a tool box since I could reach. So Im hoping this will be successful. I am building a 31 2 door sedan and have a Ford 8in rear end that is 51in backing plate to backing plate. Will it be wide enough if I z the back end 8in and run the buggy spring in the original cross member?
I am thinking a 4in drop axle in the front with a 6 degree notch at the front of the cab should lower the front about 7in. So I will have it 7 in. lower in the front and 8 in. lower in the back will this be a good look?
Also I have been debating on which steering box to use. I really like the pitman arm look with the horseshoe bracket on the left front back plate of the drum brake. What is the best box to use that is not too hard to get a hold of.

Thanks in advance for the responses.

The important measurement of the rear is the wheel mounting surface to wheel mounting surface measurement, not backing blate measurements. If the rear tires are not going to be any higher than the fender notches in the body, 56" wms to wms will suffice. IF the car will sit lower, you'll need to be a couple of inches wider.

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Originally Posted by nichorv

Also I have been debating on which steering box to use. I really like the pitman arm look with the horseshoe bracket on the left front back plate of the drum brake. What is the best box to use that is not too hard to get a hold of.

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Sounds like a cool project. Old F150 And Mustang boxes are still around if you like that look. Check with Flaming River if you want new.
Rick

Thanks for the feedback. I am planning on an 12 in Z in the back end with stock spring so it will be close to the wheel wells.