Adam, I know so little about these trucks. I can't help you one lick with transmissions or gear ratios.
I can say that I'm very interested to see what you decide, and I'm a little scared for myself, too! After I've read so man people say "These trucks are so simple. Anyone can do it!", you're the first person to really make me think "Maybe I can't...". Maybe I'll be in over my head as well on this very expensive hobby.
Like you, I've never owned a project vehicle, although I have owned a truck in my past. It was a 2001 Nissan. Totally different animal, but I loved driving it. Something about a pickup makes me feel like a man. Raaaa!
I'm on the lookout for an old Chevy now, but I won't buy one until it's the right truck, the right time, and right for our budget. That gives me time to research, talk to people, and do the occasional gut check to make sure I'm not jumping into something I'll never finish.
So I love your truck, but don't try to sell it to me :-), and I hope you find a way to keep it and enjoy it and find pleasure in the labor, even the body work. Or, if it's not right for you, cut your losses before you get in too deep. As somebody else advised me, it is still just a project. No more, no less.
Please keep us updated on your decisions and your progress! Good luck! I think you're asking all the right questions.
Steve.
