first thing of course is to make sure you can get it titled, otherwise its a part out deal, i think it would be a cool project and would be good for off roading since its a midsize truck, i had a 2001 quad cab dakota for a few years and i gave it to my parents, I despise that thingh. but it didnt have a 5.3 in it either id say go for it if you can get it legal.