Can't offer anything on a hitch but I think you have a good idea what to start doing. I would change all the grease fittings on the chassis and lube it. The old fittings might still be good but its a cheap fix and you never know if an old one is pluged. I put an in-line fuel filter between my pump and carb. Fram G-2. Check for gas leaks and check your wires for cracks or breaks. Check all the lights. Of course you will do that sort of thing on a regular basis after you have started driving it.
Good luck and have fun!
