Howdy, newbie and I need your help 1972 4x4

[Loptics]

Hi Gentlemen,

Here's my story in a nutshell. I had a 1972 C20 back when I was a kid and eventually had to sell it when I couldn't afford to keep it. Loved that truck. Fast forward 20 years later and I stumbled across a 1972 Super Cheyenne 1/2 ton 4x4, black and white, 350, TH350, NP205 (1972 made), 12 bolt rear, the owner had the tranny 100% rebuilt, new 2 inch Les Scwab suspension and shocks, overhauled transfer case, new axle seals/bearings, new Warn hubs, new brakes, new BFG tires, new exhaust, runs and drives super, all it needs is TLC with body and paint, and maybe one day the motor. The body is straight but with rust in the cab supports, rocker panels, a bit in the fenders and wheel wells. It needs weather stripping, headliner, seat work, and window channels and such. I do not believe the motor is original.

Anyway, I was all proud and after driving it home, I THEN decided to do my research (carfax wouldn't run the VIN before 1981), and finding the VIN buster, I see my truck left the factory as a 4x2!!! So it looks like I have a 2wd body on a 4x4 chassis. As I said, the running gear appears "correct" for the vintage but I have no way of knowing where the trucks running gear/frame came from.

Now, the $20,000 question. Is the truck worth restoring?? Yes, I understand if it is "worth it to me" then go for it, but what I'm asking is if the collector/intrinsic value of the truck has taken a such a substantial hit (I know about the motor, but old motors don't run forever anyway, and I accepted that) that putting money in the restoration would be a real economic case of diminishing returns. I would restore the body/paint/trim to original condition, no custom changes.

I'm really on the fence about this. Any suggestions/opinions/advive you could give me would be GREATLY appreciated. I've been out of the game for a long time and it's a whole new market now.

Thanks!

Scott