I need to replace a 1983 GMC K1500 1/2 ton 4WD with the 6.2L diesel engine. It's horribly rusty and the auto tranny seems to be dead. Any suggestions? I want a manual transmission and a diesel and I need 4WD. And it needs to be able to tow around 5000 lbs. What's out there that gets 20+ MPG and meets my needs? Mostly considering a pickup and leaning towards a 3/4 ton this time. Maybe something under $3000.
I'd like something with a Cummins under the hood, but they're usually out of my price range or 2WD.
Will a 4-cyl Toyota T-100 do it? I'd have to travel South to get one, Toyota trucks don't last long in NY.
Anybody selling a rust-free 1983 GMC K2500 diesel with a newer NV4500 5-speed manual transmission installed? I know them well and I have a parts truck for it already.