I'm just wondering what type of front axle would have come in a 1989 Chevy 1-ton 4x4. Seems like pretty easy info to find, but I'm having a rough time tracking it down. From what I've gathered so far, the front axle would be IFS, is that correct? Is it a variation of the Dana 60? Thanks!

If it's the IFS, the only thing that would a variation of the Dana 60 is the bolt pattern. Nothing will interchange. It will either be the IFS or Dana 60, if it's a 1 ton.

So between the Dana 60 and the IFS, which would be considered "better", or are they completely different in that each is very good in their own way?

Depends what you want to do. If this is just a driver, then the IFS might ride better, maybe handle better. Buf if you plan to go offroad, lift it and put some bigger tires on it, then the 60 is the way to go. Lifting a solid axle truck is alot cheaper and easier than the IFS truck, and the SFA will last alot longer too.