Canuck,
Well you asked for an opinion, I think if you want to make a 1/2 ton truck, you are better starting with a 1/2 ton truck. The prewar trucks are getting hard to find in any size. It sounds like it might be nice to preserve what you got. That being said... it is your truck, and whatever you do with it, there will be people here that will help.
Good Luck
John
