The truck reads 9053 miles, so the steering will be checked, but I doubt it is an issue.
The front hubs should be removable from the spindles without spoiling alignment, and also allowing the front bearings to be replaced (the truck is at 9k miles, but it was a farm truck, I'm not gonna risk that). The rear axle is a simple affair as well: the plate that holds the driveshaft and pinion actually holds the entire assembly, minus the axle shafts. Pull the shafts, and remove the differential assembly, swap in new, reinsert shafts. I could even go to electric, but I suppose actuators have a common mount.
The brakes are a point of concern, but I have heard of others adapting f550 brake systems to fit six lug Budds. If nothing else, I'll build new brackets. Don't worry, for me it's not built until it is massively overbuilt.
I'm not sure about the 6500; the driver side door is seized in the frame. I took a glance underneath, and the axle looks the same, barring fin casting alterations. It should be a straight swap, assuming the yard will let me touch the truck.
I have nothing against Budds, except that I have found 1 8x22.5 rim in my entire area, and I have a single one piece rim. Not exactly a reassuring fact.
The engine's power is no concern whatsoever; that is why I want to gear up. But if I don't know the engine, I won't know what parts to get for it.
