The weld in IFS is the best option but the low end cost of that will be about $1,500. Next you have a blown engine which means replacement. Since you posted in HI-PO forum I venture to guess you have a V8 on your mind. You can spent about $1,000 on average to build up a small block chevy with parts, machine work and labor. You then will need a new transmission so add another $500, a new drive shaft will run about $150, then comes the rear axle which you can cheap out on for about $150 for an open differential. You will need about $500 for a rear suspension kit unless you cobble something together yourself but since you have limited fab skills this is a buy item for now. Then you have new wheels and tires so add another $600 for some basic steel wheels and some decent rubber. Next comes new stuff like glass ($200), wiring ($200), patch panels ($300), V8 radiator ($250), fuel tank ($300), brake lines ($200), fuel lines ($100), and finally bed wood ($250). This does not include painting but then natural patina is always an option.
So there you have a rough cost estimate of what it will take to make your truck a daily cruiser. You may be able to get some bargains on some items but I think my costs are pretty close when you include shipping costs.
So for a total of about $6,000 in parts and the free help of your friends who hopefully will still be friends afterwards, you have a daily driver. Oh and you might want to include in the cost a much larger diamond for the bride as she will probably get very jealous of the new mistress in the house (garage) especially if it takes time away from her and the planning of the big event.
My suggestion is to wait until after the wedding and HOPE you can get the money put aside to pay for the truck before any little tax deductions start popping out or the other option is to put the wedding plans up on jackstands until you get everything bought and the debt is already incurred. You then have two incomes to help pay it off. You will still need to spring at least the same amount on her either through jewerly or an upgraded honeymoon.
Good luck.
