No restored truck will go for that money around here. Check the classifieds, the ones up in that range aren't selling in this area. Most factory-restored trucks are in the $10-25K range.
You need to decide what YOU want. We can give you all the opinions you ask for, but you won't be happy unless you decide for yourself.
You can get an S-10 frame in a 124" WB or in a 117" wheelbase, if you like. I like the S-10 route as all the engineering is done, the brakes and suspension are all designed to work together and it drives, handles, and stops as a modern vehicle should. The front end and rear end kit route can work, but I've driven a lot that just aren't right.
Do you want a restored truck, or do you want a truck that's more modern?
