Jim -- You may also want to consider the possibility that you may become an addict like the rest of us. Stovebolts are a powerful drug that will use up ALL your time and money if you get bit hard by the bug!
However, it is a great hobby, more fun than a barrel of monkeys.
Now that truck you mentioned does not sound like a bargain at all. I bought my truck for $1100, and drove it home, and then after a tune up, drove it about 300 miles the first week! It has some dings and dents and a little rust, but no major problems. Patients is the key, and try not to get lock into NEEDING a specific year and model. As long as it's a pre 1972 GM you'll have a blast with it!
Boo
