Thanks to all for your input. We are struggling with the reality of the cost and I wish I had the skill and knowledge to do much of it on my own, but that's not the case. It is what it is and we just hope we can do the truck and the hobby justice. Even though the truck is a 51 with a 54 engine, we are otherwise trying to keep it as original as possible....I like the idea about looking into a newer engine and possibly upgrading the drive train (has the original 3-speed and 4:11 rear). Any suggestions on a drop-in combo that's not to difficult to find and wouldn't break the bank on installation costs? Speed's not the objective, just something that's dependable and will start most of the time. By the way, truck is still original 6V system and wiring, if you can believe it. If we do go newer, at what point do I have to go with the 12V change? Thanks.
