Checker Wagon

I've sold my 49' Merc and I have been wanted to redo a Checker wagon that my father left me after passing away. Problem is that I prefer cars that sit low. So my questions are..

1. Does anyone have any knowledge about lowering these cars more then the 1.5" offered through the "lowering springs" listed online.
The floor boards are flat (without a hump/trans tunnel) and there is very little room in the rear wheel wells. Obviously it would have to have mini-tubs done but what else?

2. Would doing a body drop do the trick?

3. If you had to guess at the cost of having a street rod/fab shop do a body drob.. what would you guess the cost would be? Or how many hours do you think it take?

Thanks in advance for any info!

 

http://www.andysautosport.com/checker_parts.html