Thanks everyone for your input!
Its tuff because I have already started into the 6 cylinder, rebuilt the carb and blasted and painted the original rims,then wrapped them in new goodyears. If I stick with the original frame I will modify the front end...any donor suggestions? If I decide to change directions with the drivetrain I can always put the 327 in it and decide on trans.. speaking of which I would still like to ad powersteering and put in an automatic tranny for cruising (dont get me wrong, I love shifting gears...but I prefer a muscle car over a granny 4 speed truck).
Any suggestions on an automatic trans that would bolt up to the 6 cylinder for the time being and could also work if I decide to go with the 327 later on? I would like OD but dont "need" it.

Just out of curiousity with the later model frame option. I found a 77' Short bed locally with everything "except" the engine...which I have. Its $750 and may be cheaper than the first option. I do have some older friends with fabricating experience! It would include better brakes, a 12 bolt rear, and a 350 trans, and the power steering I really want among alot of other extras. Im wondering if anyone has any reason this truck would NOT be a good donor if I go that direction?? The kicker is the truck has a really nice body which I would sell and make most of my money back!

Im a bit scatter brained at the moment because this project consumes my thoughts everyday Im ready to get this project DRIVING! I also have the funds to do it now as I just sold my 58' Cadillac and want to put every dime towards the Apache. So I need to decide and buy what I need now before I blow it!
I posted a link to the donor truck below if that helps.......

http://kansascity.craigslist.org/cto/1595816721.html

Pro's a Con's to everything greatly appreciated. This is my first big project and Im ready to dive in. I just want to do it right!

Thanks,
Jerad