Help me decide

[sandcrawler]

While I am low on funds for fun stuff like a lift or gears or fancy stuff like that, I've decided that I really need to address the T-Case/Leaking Rear seal issue on Bruce.

Now on to my questions:

Well first let me backtrack - I think that removing the tranny might be beyond my technical capabilites - that and rebuilding the t-case (which looks simple enough, but.....) so does any want to volunteer to help me?

Or do you think I am capable of doing this on my own?

So here's the good about Bruce:
- Runs well (although he needs his valve seals replaced)
- Frame is pretty reasonable (except for the section past the rear axle - but then almost all 60/62s are crap back there if they've lived in the NE)
- Tranny is probably OK - but I think it needs a major service
- New brakes/seals/rear wheel bearings/rear locker/new tires/

Here's the bad:
- Body rust in the usual spots - the worst being the driver's side doors (I have a set of doors that are dented, but less rusty - but they don't match)
- Aforementioned rusty rear frame
- Rough interior
- Rusty tail gate

So what would you do with this beast?

Here's what I would like: A vehicle I can both 4-wheel and that I can drive to work (when I work again) without being embarrassed.

Beyond that I put it to the floor.

 

[78Crusher]

I say that if you are asking if you should bail on your ride and get another one Then no is my answer.
Your LC could be a bitchen ride if you focus on one upgrade at a time and get parts for a reasonable cost. And of course cheep labor.
The interior parts are the easiest. As long as you are making a D/D and trail machine and not a full blown resoration you can use seats and such out of any vehicle.
Bodywork sucks but if you have a lift and good tires the bad bodywork will not be so much of big deal.
Take a deap breath and seriously think about it.

 

[sandcrawler]

Actually no, I want to keep Bruce, but I need a workable plan as to how to tackle the vehicle. He'll never be a beauty queen, and that's ok. However I would like him to present nicer than he does.

Of course my fantasies for Bruce revolve around either a 'Yota diesel or a 2FE with the H55 manual.

But then I'm real good at dreaming.

 

[Zimm]

fiberglass flares and a crappy paint job do wonders for a 60.

 

[sandcrawler]

Yes but what about a 62?

 

[Zimm]

Yes but what about a 62?

youre right. the automatic just ruins it.

 

[sandcrawler]

Hence my troubles!