What to replace or check?

[kcackler]

I've had my 77 for awhile, but only just now have a bit of money to put into it. Assuming that everything on it is stock and never been replaced, what should I check/replace, and in what order (Assuming my budget is limited)

It's got a new fuel pump in it.
The brakes were replaced by someone else about 5 years ago, but then the truck sat for 3 years before I bought it. Brakes feel softish, but I don't know if I'm just used to the powerful brakes in our car.

Those are the only things that have been serviced, as far as I know. Fuel lines and brake lines, I would assume, are the originals.

Gas tank needs replaced, as it has a pinhole in the top of it, and I'm sure is full of rust.

If you had, say, $200 to start with, where would you put it? The truck drives fine. The steering feels a bit loose, but again, not sure if this is because I'm used to the perfect steering in our car.

[orbot]

Id do
New gas, oil change with filter obcourse, gas filter, air filter, clean or new spark plugs and check all fluid levels.

[kcackler]

I've been driving it for two years now already. It's got new gas, regular oil changes, regular fluid checks, and new filters all around.

At this point, I'm ready to start moving to the mechanical things like steering, brakes, etc....

I just don't know what goes bad on these trucks first...

[lilpoindexter]

I'd at least flush out the brake system, and make sure all the rubber hasn't started cracking. I'd also check the rag joint, and all the ball joints/ tie rod ends / idler arm / pitman arm, to make sure there isn't a worn out part...if it's worn, replace it.

[VegasBruce]

Change all the hoses, fuel, coolant and power steering. In that order, including the hoses at the fuel tank.

[cr34t3d_by_d4rkd3n]

Check the wheelbearings, re pack em (prob never done) change oil, all filters, fresh fuel, new coolant, water pump,check rear end fluid, u joints blah blah blah.... welcome to the never ending money pit.....

safty issues: tight lug nuts, no free play in ANY steering or ball joint (yes greased), working seatbelts (no rust around mounts under carpet)....check all and every brake component. if unsure, take to a specialist.... brakes NEED to work and work RIGHT everytime, dont cheap out in this area.

[PRattenbury]

Don't replace anything unless it needs it. If it needs it, you'll know. The truck won't run, ride or stop right, depending on what needs help. If it's running and working, leave it alone. Keep the oil changed, antifreeze and other fluids in good shape and to the right level, and continue to drive it. If it needs something, it'll let you know.