Exactly, getting rid of the radiator allows for a LOT of changes. You would be amazed at the difference in heat without the radiator blowing hot air over the motor. Of course this isn't so good in the really cold weather.
I was thinking about shortening the front of the truck actually. I would have it end at the front spring hanger with the bumper barely sticking out from there.
Then (actually first on things for me to actually do), I will bob the bed to end at the back spring hanger/shackle.

A while back I was making pictures to show Pascal ideas, and this is what I came up with.
This is based on a wagoneer/cherokee frame for length.