Well. EBay guy sent 86TM rocker assemblies. Oh well. Not using those.
From what I can tell, the machining work on the pedestals helped, but what helped even more was removing the Mobil 1 oil filter and putting a Motorcraft FL-1A back on and topping the oil off. Called Mobil to complain, and they imidately and without question sent a claim form to report any damage done to the engine. Sounds like they know they have a problem...
Either way, now that ugliness is out of the way, thanks to some help and advice from
@alwaysFlOoReD, I have a set of front and rear sway bars installed. Difference with them versus without is subtle. Mostly parking lot stuff feels a little smoother, and cornering on the Turnpike at 70-75 feels less likely to end in rust-fueled flames. Only paid $36 for both of them and a like-new intermediate shaft for the steering, so calling it a win.
Now that a lot of unplanned work is out of the way, the new list of things to get done (in order) is as follows:
1) Rebuild steering box and power steering pump
2) Have 2.5" cat-back exhaust bent and installed. Went with the Flowmaster FlowFX muffler (clearance sale at local surplus store, $30)
3) Replace cab bushings (just wait 'till you see what my rear cab mounts look like. Have been heavily criticized for not scrapping the truck over them). Seal windshield.
4) Take new bed back off. Needle scale frame, rear axle, etc. Inspect and repair poorly welded rear frame repair done by previous owner. Install Explorer leaf springs. Paint and rustproof frame from cab to rear bumper. Install hitch and Smittybilt rear bumper.
5) Finish interior by installing new carpet, black trim, etc. Weld and install seats and tracks from the 2000 Ranger. Find and install a hula girl dash ornament on the dash, and a "Little Trees" pine scented air freshener on rear view mirror (also find and install a rear view mirror).
If I don't drag my feet, that list should be finished by early-mid summer. Just in time to start work on rockers, cab corners, bed rust, etc. Really hoping to have the thing presentable by September for the TRS 20th anniversary trail ride. Would be nice to say "thank you" to a lot of you in person; I would not have been able to get this truck "right" without 'yinz.