Good luck with your project but in my opinion you might be biting off more than you can chew in a reasonable amount of time with your current housing and relationship situation.
The modifications you have specified will not come cheap. If you have not already done so, I would suggest sitting down and putting pen to paper to determine your build plan and the costs involved.
The IFS will be a large cost as will the engine/transmission.
Your lack of experience is not a detrement but it will lead to wasted time and money as you determine the best way to build your truck.
The lack of a close place to take the truck apart and work it is your biggest obstacle as I see it. Once you start taking one of these trucks apart you will find they increase in size by about 400%. Without a storage unit to keep them out of the weather you will find it difficult to work them effectively.
Not trying to paint a doom and gloom picture but without a dedicated place to tear it down, work it (load, dirty, dusty) and rebuild it you may wind up with a parts truck for sale soon.
Put a plan in place and work it. Identify the problems and a solution before you take a fender off. Plan on at least 2 years before you make significant progress and at least a cost of $8,000 for parts, supplies, outside labor, paint, etc.
Such a project will consume your extra time completely so make sure your girlfriend and you have an agreement in place as to cost sharing. Unless you make the trip to the altar to solve any such issues they can create tension and be a project killer.
Good luck and remember we are always here to share our experience.
