When to pick a restoration path

Do not pick Mechanical, Body-on, or Frame-off from a feeling.

Wait until you have looked at:

Frame rails and mounts

Cab floors, rockers, and corners

Bed structure

Engine identity and whether it rotates

Transmission and axle

Rust that actually perforates

Previous modifications

Brakes, steering, and fuel

The path decision lives in Vehicle. The evidence lives in Parts photos and Issues.