Adam, have you driven your truck as it is? Your drivetrain might be adequate...those little V-8's can run easily at higher rpms. If your highway driving is going to be limited anyway, well, it might be good with a little freshening-up.
Lots of new body panels are available, and only require a little "fitting". You can spend many thousands $$ and have a "show truck". Or spend a few (and many hours) and have a cool, dependable driver. I wouldn't want a show truck, because I like driving mine.
Having said that, I just ordered a bunch of parts and will be taking my '65 off the road until I get the cab & fenders patched up. If it lasts another 40 years, great. I've been driving it for 20, it doesn't owe me a thing.
Best luck,
cm
