Here's what I would do. Jack it up and do a complete brake inspection. Make sure, in your head, that you fully trust the brakes. Do a complete tuneup including changing all the fluids, tranny and diff included.
Then tackle the body.
I bought a little Lincoln welder, and the MIG kit. I've been practicing on an old fender that I can cut up and weld back for fun and training.
I'm in a delay mode right now as we're getting ready to move, but I plan to do it all myself, including the paint.
But get your brakes and drivetrain going, and take it for a ride. People appreciate old beater trucks as much as fancy restos.
