Which truck...?

[Aughtsix]

I just found this site and I'm soooooo glad I did!!

I'm shopping for a Chevy 3/4 ton 4x4 but I'm not sure which year to get. I don't want to go too old because it's much harder to find a good truck that hasn't been either worked to death or beat apart, so I'm currently looking in the '73-'87 range. Of course I'd like to have a 205 transfer case and the toughest axles available, and either the TH400 or the best 4 spd (not sure what that would be). I want a bulletproof truck.

Is there any particular year or series that just stands out? Fewest problems, toughest drivetrain, etc...

I'm also looking for minimal amount of smog equipment and computer control, but I tend to like the looks of the '81 up trucks. Again though, if I need to go older to fulfill my needs I'll happily do that.

I need your advice and educated opinions, and they're very much appreciated.

Thanks

Steve