Yes. Troy uses the 1/2" spacers. Not modified suspension pieces. He useds stock 68 idler, pitman, etc suspension pieces with his TTI headers. He drives the car everywhere and it drives on the highway fine. Drives straight and handles just like an A-body with no front sway bar. Do not bent the suspension pieces.
The steering column is not a big deal. Cut the tube and move the bearing back.
BTW, you can get the TTI headers coated in white or black. IMHO, if you are worrying about the angle of the collectors, you better have already some perfect 100% detailing done. Like, have you found a source for the 100% correct brand, model, size of tires delivered? You running a transistorized ignition?