[dsraven]

I suggest to figure out what it is you want in a truck and then ask questions from there. if looking for a numbers matching truck or a truck that is at least as stock as possible without the numbers match then you may have a little more trouble finding an unmolested truck. not impossible though. if you are looking for a fairly stock truck that may have been converted to a v8 at some point then you will have better luck. the thing is, it doesn't matter what you buy if it is a runner, because you will likely be going through the whole thing anyway sooner or later. if you just want to get into a truck and drive it then look for that. if it is a project you want, but sort of a light project, then look for that. by "light" I mean, it runs, it drives, maybe it needs a few tweaks but essentially you could get in and safely drive a few hours without any problems and not have to fix it before driving again. if it is a full body off frame rebuild then you need to decide what it is you want it to do. a truck with independent front suspension, power steering and brakes, seat belts that have shoulder restraints, doors that close and latch properly, wipers that work properly, a heater that works (a/c would be nice depending on where you live) and a gearing set up that allows highway speeds is sort of a good start. disc brakes up front would be good as well. there are some decent prices on stuff if you follow along with the sales and aren't in a hurry to buy. you kinda need to know what you want first though. are you outfitted for a shop and tools? welder, grinders, jacks, stands, hand tools etc?
go through some of the build threads or look on google images for the look you like, decide on the power you like, decide on the options you like and how you will drive it, then ask again for what may be involved to build something like that. show quality, primer quality, daily driver?