Welcome to the Stovebolt Community William!
Your truck find looks outstanding and sounds like you already have a good start on your plan.
As yourself and others have said, your engineering/construction skills provide a great basis for learning wrench turning.
Anytime you get stumped, or just have a question that your not sure of, ask away! We are here to help!
Looking forward to your future posts and pictures (lots and lots off pictures please).
Enjoy the experience with your kids. They will remember it forever!
Dan
