Anyone ever have a hard time converting a nice stock truck into their build?

[r8rs4lf]

That's where I'm at right now. I have a very nice, running, stopping stock truck, but my intention before I found a truck was to build it the way I wanted.

Before I found my truck my intent was to add a higher cu motor, maybe even a big block with a competent transmission to handle the hp along with a built up shortened rear end. I was also going to add 20's or 22's with a static drop. You know, the usual here is SoCal.

I found a great stock truck (Highlander edition) that most people would think I would be an idiot for changing things. The 350/350 in it has been rebuilt about 10K miles ago (receipts) and purrs like a cat. Absolutely no issues with the drivetrain. Factory AC works, but for some reason the heater hoses were cut. Probably a leaking heater core. I already have those parts to fix that sitting in the garage. The 12 bolt rear end also received attention around the same time. No leaks and like I said, it runs great! The only thing I needed to change was the leaking fuel pump and remove an add a leaf in the rear. I also fixed the "high" setting on the fan assembly by moving one wire on the fuse panel.

I will be changing out all of the front end suspension parts as they look like they are a bit worn, rubber cracking. Not sure if they have ever been changed, but it will make me feel good to know everything up front was replaced and solid.

This is where I need to make a decision. Do I add drop spindles/spring and in the rear, drop leaf springs? This would be the time to do that. I've seen quite a few trucks online that are dropped with stock wheels and they don't look bad. I had also planned on going with Intros on my truck. Another dilemma.

Do I replace the 350/350 combo it has and maybe have to deal with problems with another set up? BTW, I will not be going with an LS motor. If I do change them out, what to do with them? Sure I can sell them, but it's painful to think about removing such a great running drive train for no real reason besides wanting a gas guzzling high hp motor that can leave tire tracks for half a block.

Part of me thinks I should just find another truck and go ahead with my plans. Maybe try to find a truck with no motor/trans and go from there. Problem there is will I have any other issues with anything else that I don't have currently. It would also deplete the funds for upgrading.

Monday I will be ordering the front end parts, I need to make a decision on whether I want a drop or leave as is.