Restoration Suggestions??? 70 CST400, Short, Fleet, Wood

[7dguy]

Hello gents...

I own a burnished brown, 70, CST400, Shortbed, Fleetside. It has 89K actual miles, everything works and it has no rust. Runs and drives perfectly but needs paint and a trim restoration very badly. It's quite original and definitely a "survivor". I have a build sheet and the POP is still in the glovebox.

Body:
I'm inclined to take it off the frame and completely restore it to exact original spec's, but am fearful of being hopelessly buried in it. It really is an ugly color, but considering how rare the truck is and how good of shape it's in, I think it would be sinful to change it. On the other hand, black, huggar orange or even red would look better and might offset resale value enough to offset the lack of authenticity. I understand we are not dealing with Big Block sportscars here but there are some people who willl pay for legit vehicles. Admittedly, I have no knowlege of the market for show quality pickups. One thing to consider. I might...might be able to get away with an exterior repaint, including the jams. Intgerior paint is amost salvageable (near perfect but a couple of deep scratches)

Drivetrain:
I am considering just re-paint and re-seal the drivetrain if possible. Will know more on this after pulling it. Suspension will be re-sprung and powdercoated regardless.

The big question is really whether or not I want to change the color or not. With such a rare truck to start with, what would you do if you were at minimum going to a date correct restoration? Ugly color and authentic, vs pretty?

As a related matter I need a set of 6 lug front wheels. Mine are 5 in front, 6 in rear and I am taking it to original.

Thanks for your feedback.