more progress!
Engine bay was stitch welded as was most layers of metal touching it. Painted over that with tractor paint so i could get the fenders on. Seems as though some of the attachment points have been...rusted and had bolts broken off. Reminds me of home (ohio) anyway.... ill have put some screws into it to hold. But they are mostly on.
Also finished the rear structure welding and coated it all with truck bed liner. I just need two more weldable inserts and the rear mudflaps will be on as well. Engine will be going in soon i supposed. 13b engine i had laying around is the game plan. will be cheaper and i can reuse a lot of parts. Also better for me to learn on!
i also saved 10lbs via removal of the headlamps. also cleared some space and removed some wiring and relays.