You have a lot of options, but what is your desired result? Are you planning on customizing, hot rodding or bringing it back to original stock?
As what has been said, 3/4 ton is a great truck for hauling, but IMO the rear gearing is a little low for UK driving. The body parts are the same, the bed is a little longer and the axles are 8 lug.
1) If you were looking to restore a 3100 Chevrolet pick up and that is the only thing you want, then I would fix up the problems and get it running well and sell it and try and recoup your investment. The next time you are looking for a truck, contact us and I am sure many of us would help you in finding one to your satisfaction.
2) Frame swap. Not all is lost, you can purchase another frame for the truck, they range from $100 - $1500 depending on what has been done with them. I have seen frames (chassis) that were removed from restored trucks with rebuilt engines sell for less than $1000, just because the new owner wanted to hot rod the truck. Remember, you will need the 1954/55 truck frame, not the 1947/53 frame. You could also go the S-10 Chevrolet frame swap too, more work, but modern suspension. You may have to shorten the bed (I think there is a tech tip on this)
3) Change out the front axle and the rear axle and replace it with Mustang II front suspension and install a later rear end with higher gears for better (faster) driving, you can still maintain the 6 lug wheels that you desire. You will lose the 3/4 ton rating, but I have an idea that is not a concern.
4) before you do anything else, start networking with other bolter's that are in the UK, they may be able to help you procure parts or locate the better vendors or just be a good source for building and enjoying these trucks.
GOOD LUCK!
