Which diesel truck to build next?

I've owned personal use light-duty diesel trucks for over 25 years. For the past 12 years I've had one or two old Ford IDI diesels. I recently sold my 1992 Ford F-350 4X4 5-speed IDI (non-turbo). It was lifted and had become too big to be fun to work on. So for my next truck I can afford either get a similar IDI. (Want to do a turbo this time and probably 2WD) or I can get just the motor and build that to perfection before finding a truck to restore and install it in.

The third option is I can get a crate 7.3 IDI and build up the fuel system then find the truck.

I guess like many on this board I'm disappointed in the condition of many of the trucks that most old school diesels are found in. I like working on them but hate to paint. Maybe a retro mod truck with a diesel?

My end goal is:

1. Something fun to work on with affordable and available parts (part of what I like the IDI)
2. Simple and not electronically complex; minimal paint, electrical and body work
3. Useful as an occasional driver/spare truck and towing vehicle. Super dependable and runs forever.

Suggestions?

Do you mean condition as in the rust? If so, a lot on here source from the south and Southwest for rust free.

It's heart shattering to see what those guys throw away down there! I'm in the north east so even my customer cars that are 4 years old are rusting away. They salt the streets all year it seems.

Welcome to the forum!

Welcome to Oil Burners! Rust is everywhere, or at least rust can drive anywhere.

I can deal with some rust. Many of the trucks I look have quite a bit of body damage and will never be close to straight again I guess I'm just not the bodywork guy. But if I was going to go through all that trouble, I might put my IDI in a classic truck. Anyone every try that? I've seen a few on the internet. Electrical would be simple enough. My guess would be the most challenging part would be mounts and drive train swap?

If I may provide some possibly controversial input...
Depending on if/when you plan to sell it in the future, you should consider what the value increase may be. For instance, the late 70's and early 80's square body Chevy trucks are a dime a dozen right now. But give them a decade or so when all the last of the 67-72 body style has been worked over and the 73-87 will be the next generation that sees a significant value increase.
You seem to be open to some modifications to fit the drivetrain, and the square body Chevy is a pretty open platform that can be found in relatively good condition needing the motor or transmission replaced! They are cheap, parts are abundant, all you've got is headlights basically to wire (okay, maybe more than that, but it's minimal)...

My vote is a 3/4 ton chevy or gmc between 1973 and 1978.

Don't hammer me too hard you Ford lovers! I've got both blue and orange in my veins!

1stgen Dodge. Non-intercooled 2wd models still have a good price point. If/when you get fed up with the Dodge part, swap the powertrain into a Ford or Chevy.

As for the paint & body... not my thing either. Cut, weld, grind, and paint (spray can or brush) is my style.