I’ve learned so much on this forum over the past week. I cannot thank you enough.

I’m interested in purchasing an early model pickup next spring (40-54). I’m looking much more towards rod than all original and want to be able to drive at highway speeds and feel safe with what’s around me. I want to get a solid cool running driver I can learn with and mod as I go.

This thread is my 101 of things to look for when combing for-sale ads. Helping me weigh two trucks with different options against one another.

My price range is 10k-15k if this helps at all?

So what should I be on the lookout for when looking around?
Can you guys help me list the items in order of safety importance? And give a 1-5 rating for installation difficulty if trying to do myself (novice).
Please feel free to add to my list here, this is just what I’ve noticed looking around hotrodline.com

PS
PB
Disc Brakes
Leaf Springs
Seatbelts
Power wipers
Posi rear end

Engines/Transmissions… I’ve seen a handful of 350's w/ 700R-4 transmissions. Should I be looking for something specific? What should catch my eye? How will a 3 speed feel as compared to a 4 when I shove my foot down?

Very much appreciated, thank you.