Manifold questions from a newbie

[crhyno]

Hi
I recently acquired a 1962 c10 and was thinking about an engine cleanup. I have a 235 CID 6 cyl (at least that is what I think it is) that supposedly has 61,000 original miles on it. It has a 3 speed on the column and starts, stops and runs great. My feeling is that I should just leave it alone, but I know that I will be facing a long winter with just it and me in the garage and wrench happiness will set in. The only rusty part under the hood that concerns me is the manifold. Everything else looks good and can be given a bath / dip / sanding or whatever else is needed. I have been reading the threads and have heard horror stories of broken bolts, sand basting that has destroyed parts, endless misery etc. so I am looking for advice. Should I :

A: Leave it alone
B: Have a professional deal with it
C: Tackle "cleaning" it myself
D: Buy a replacement part in great condition

I feel confident with most repair work that does not involve welding, and have no problem paying for someone to do something correctly if I shy away.
Any and all advice / hints / warnings / threats / concerns will be greatly appreciated.