1995 rusty body problems

[will2045]

So I live in Michigan and every car around here rusts into the ground rather quickly. my 1995 ext cab was developing some spots so I broke down and began working on it. The truck is used for mud and winter dd so i wasnt overly worried I was going to mud the holes and rattle can it BUT I found the rust was much much worse then I thought, fist sized holes hidden with bubbling paint. Now again the truck isnt a show truck BUT i have put massive hours of work into the chassis set up and the new motor is still being built but it will represent a lot of work. The current body is essentially unsavable. so im torn as to the next step.
1. leave the rusty body on till it rusts enough to fall off and make a decision
2. find a replacement same year body
3. swap on the next newer generation body. (these seem to be much more common and cheaper in mid Michigan)

thanks for the input here guys I know most car people would say scrap the truck lol

 

[AgPete139]

I'd vote #3, after #1. If your struck is structurally sound with no nasty hole sin the frame, just do the body until it's bad off.

It looks more modern, and if it is cheaper, it could save you $ in the long run. Keep in mind that some custom modification will be required to make the body panels fit, like the front clip, and things like the hood latch. There are threads on here for Gen IV conversions, so give a look around.

In the meantime of waiting for your truck to rust apart, gather parts and panels for the body retrofit.

 

[Surrey]

I vote 2 after 1.

With waiting for the body to finish rusting away, you should have time to find a reasonable priced replacement of the same year (or at least generation) body to replace what you have... Maybe get lucky and find something in great shape but with a blown engine that someone just wants to sell cheap.

 

[truckfan]

After #1, go with #2. You can go to junk yards to find a good replacement at cheaper price.

 

[Mark_88]

I would take a serious look at the frame...meaning pull the box off and poke around with a screwdriver before investing in body parts or considering any mods. The frame is your base...

When I pulled the body off my 88 Ranger I found that two of the body mounts were rusted through the top end...but I was fortunate that it wasn't the actual mount...just where the bolt goes through...so I had the guy weld a thick washer in place and it has held so far...the rest of the body was pretty much clean but I did find a few spots on the frame that needed attention...

And that reminds me...I had a spring hanger replaced last year and the guy found rust around that...so check it carefully...it pays to do this in the long run...