Check out Hellwig traction control springs from JC Whitney. These cost $80 for 3/4 ton trucks. They don't change the spring rate, don't hang down to catch on rocks, don't bind or limit suspension travel, don't require welding and add so little to your unsprung weight, you'll never know the difference.
I had horrible wheel hop unloaded or loaded in deep sand. Had to use 4x4 where it shouldn't be needed. After I installed these, I can drive through deep sand unloaded in 2 wheel drive easily. They work especially well climbing cut banks. I highly recommend them.
These springs work by resisting the tendency for the front of the leaf spring pack to bend upwards when the axle twists. They are installed with the suspension at full droop so they are preloaded. I can't tell you how much difference these things make. They should be installed at the factory as part of the "off road" option.