[special-K]

Sandblasting is the easiest way to prep a frame with all it`s different sides,edges,and nooks`n`crannies.It makes the surface hang on to the paint like nothing else and saves alot of elbow grease.For me,there is no question there.Powdercoating?I wouldn`t.1)you don`t get the rust inhibiting qualities found in the choice of paints you`ll find.2)It`ll chip,is hard as hell to sand and feather for touch-up.Water can get behind it through a chip or wear spot and do some serious pitting(trapped water)before you even know it`s there.It`s like a shell and by the time it flakes,it could be a whole section damaged.I try not to spend alot of time under my truck.3)Everywhere a bolt or washer is torqued down it can pop loose.4)It doesn`t get between pieces that are not seperated.It is intended to be used on individual pieces prior to assembly.So,unless you are planning to strip your frame to it`s individual components it will not hold up.
All this said,if it`s a babied show truck that will avoid rain,rough roads,and be kept clean as a whistle is a different story.But,paint can look as good and is more serviceable.
You can get $25,000 for these trucks,but they better be nut`n`bolt meticulate.Certain unrestored models can go for $12,000 unrestored.I`ve seen plenty of both.