I agree with many of the for mentioned concerns. I know a few people who have purchased the cheapest MV they could and wondered why it cost so much to get running. It is a gamble when you purchase any MV or any vehicle off of an auction site. I also know people who have honestly no business buying a bicycle let alone a MV and plan on working on it and restoring it, knowing that it just isn't feasible owning a handyman tool kit with the largest tool being a regular screwdriver. These trucks are just like any other auto project that people buy with a grand plan of doing this or that and find out they really don't have the time or the project is just over there head. There is no perfect vehicle for any project honestly. you want a small truck to fit through the tights trees, then it is to small to sleep in when you get there. You buy a big truck like these and, DANG, I don't fit past that boulder sticking in the trail. If you have built one of these and put huge money into it and are unhappy let me know, I will give you bottom dollar for it. Because the bottom line on this type of project and build is that they are only worth what someone wants to give you cash for it. You can't demand to pull the same price out of your build like say "Unicat" or some of the other companies. They are licensed manufacturing companies like Fleetwood. You can build your own to find out that very few auto insurance companies will even insure it. Mine is but it took a bit to fine a company that would. They don't know if you built a death trap or not. Its not worth the risk for them. I built mine for about 32k total and have been offered much more for it. But it also comes down to the right person with the cash on hand to buy it. I say, "If you want to build one and really have the ability, do it. Buy the best truck that you can afford and do your best to make sure it is sound. Live with its flaws and or drawbacks. If your significant other hates the truck in general, better find something else to do with your time." I have had many come and see and drive mine. I would say its close to 50/50 on like/hate the truck itself over all. It isn't for everyone. And yes it isn't fast, If you plan on driving 600 miles round trip camping trips on a two day weekend, buy a pickup truck. One thing that is great about this site is people give there honest opinions. It really helps the possible new purchasers. Have a great weekend everyone.