I also agree with working on the mechanicals first then the body. Engine, Drivetrain, Brakes, Steering, Suspension and Wiring. Get it to run, get it to move and get it to stop. Get it to do all that safely and then worry about the body. Not only are you going to need parts but don't forget about the tools you will need to work on your truck. My tool collection definitly got bigger when i bought my truck, from various air tools and accessories to welders to new basic tools (screw drivers, sockets, ratches and wrenches). Tools make great gifts, tell that to everyone in your family.
What i would do, and what i am doing is take a day or so and inspect every part on the truck and make a list of what is needed complete your truck or to get it to a certain point. Divide it into the different sections and jot down everything that is needed to complete that section. (ie. - brakes - master cylinder rebuild kit, brake lines/fittings, brake cylinders, interanal hardware, brake shoes & brake drums). I went to the links section at the top of the page for
parts and went to every part retailer and requested a free catalog and also bookmarked the sites in my favorities. Once I got the catalogs I sat down and went through every catalog comparing prices and then on my list next to the part i need I wrote where I can get it and how much it would cost as well as the part number. Also keep in mind that most part retailers will give discounts or ship for free when you place large orders.
