jimgmc - thanks for the additional insight. I had asked the seller for a picture of the serial tag and told him where to find it, I didn't realize that he had added it to the listing information but it makes sense that he would. I am not sure how to relate the serial tag numbers with the title numbers but that is just another piece of the puzzle.
I did not realize that there were 1st and 2nd series of these trucks or that the change occured in '46 (actuallu made in 45 per the date de-code). It sounds like this truck would have more in common with the 39-45 model years than 46's.
Gdads51 - thank you for the information about the cabs being common, that will help a lot if I decide to pursue this as there are a lot more used and new parts avaialble for typical pickups than the big bolt trucks.
Given that if the engine is original and therefore a 216 I suspect that I would want to replace it or rebuild it with more modern bearing, etc. I know HRL has posted a lot of interesting ideas along those lines so something else to put into the mix when thinking about thispotential project.
I read that because replacement/modern wheels for these can be difficult to source that many people update the axles to something more modern.
If the engine, axles, and wheels would all be replaced its sounding like I would basically be buying a frame, cab, and front sheet metal. The seller's asking price reflects that I guess but it does highlight the scope of the project. I'm still considering it but in reality I should probably pass, except I find it so interesting a prospect it is hard to let it go.
