I'm always impressed with your pace of projects. When you get time you knock a bunch of stuff out
I vote 4500 steering, because I want to see how it works. Also I think you are right on in your thinking in your comment with bump steer. 2-5" of road travel no big deal. 100 mph suspension travelling 18" big deal.
It's been a long time since i have driven something with full hydro but i didn't mind it at all. The only time it really sucked was when the engine died and you have to steer that bitch out of a trail. End up with popeye forearms.