When I was looking at old trucks I considered getting a '70s Ford truck and swapping in a 460 and ZF 5-speed manual. Just from everything I've seen and read I really like the 385-series BBF. But this D200 popped up on marketplace for a steal and was exactly what I wanted in a tow rig (reg cab, long bed, 2WD, bigger than a half-ton). I also only have old Mopar stuff in my collection of spare parts, nothing for Fords so that also made me lean more towards getting a Dodge. 70s Ford trucks are IMO the best-looking of the time period and the Twin I-beam/Traction Beam front suspension was a step up from the usual front solid axle with leaf springs at least as far as ride and handling are concerned. That's a reason I also didn't want a 1971 or older Dodge truck, 1972 was the first year of full IFS in 2WD Dodge trucks.
