New Father of a sick 2003 X-tra cab 4x4, New Member

Hello Tacoma World, I recently acquired a 2003 Tacoma. A friend was needing money and his Taco was a little sick and he needed money for another vehicle. I took straight to local Toyota Dealer and $145.00 later I was told that it would need a new head. I was told that three of the four holes were very low on compression. Dealer said it would be a few thousand to repair. I figured at 286,000 miles it may need a bit more. I've been surfing some forums and this one appears to be full of information as I will need a lot as I start this repair and build. This is my first Taco. I have a 77 CJ-5 in the garage that we don't use enough due to the V-8 in it and it does not like to pass up a gas station. Please advise me on where I should post for new engine information, Manual trans upgrades (been looking at Marlin). I'm figuring on replacing the 2.7, 3RZ with a crate engine complete, new OEM clutch and a better trans set up. I can do differentials a little later to match as funds will be a little tight after the first repairs are made. Sorry for rambling. I've been surfing a lot and I think I will get some great input from the members here.