The truck in you photos doesnt look bad at all to this midwesterner. My advice to you would be to buy the nicest vehicles you can find, preferably diesels, learn the import/export game, leave them alone and get them to the states. They are only original once and nobody wants somebody else's project.
Registry
1. 1987 FJ60
2. Peter Harrison
3. The Beast (inherited from PO)
4. 250,000 mi.
5. ARB bullbar,expedition roof rack,full OME suspension,9.50x30 Michelins
6. Weekend driver,hauling and trailer pulling loads too large for econobox work car and too small for 3/4 ton pickup,getting around...
Bodywork
Great job,I love that color. Yeah body works sucks. It takes so long and is seemingly impossible to get it perfect,especially when you do it yourself and you know where all the little booboos are. Leave the rocker panel trim on,somebody took mine off and I wish I had them. The chrome...
305 Sbc
Gotta throw in my .02 here. I would go with a 305-TBI if possible but 4bbl is good too. Have bought two 305 powered vehicles new, both still running strong w/tons of miles. 350s get crummy mileage and it seems like they wear themselves out. My 1500 Chevy pickup w/305 TBI,NV3500,3.42...
I just finished removing the factory mudflaps from my 87 fj60. They're not in great shape,but usable. Id never throw them away,but I dont want them sitting in my garage for the next 30 years. Includes the standoffs and most of the bolts. $20 shipped anywhere in the continental U.S. If you can...