86 pickup sitting outside for 30+ years. Where to start?

I haven't looked too close at the wheels but when I do, I'll see if theres any identifying info on them. They are ugly at first, but definitely give 80s vibes.

Not sure what that rattling was, i did have a few tools scattered in the engine bay. On second thought, I think I remember it coming from the grill.

Yeah, first thing I did was see if the engine was seized. I was able to turn the engine manually and changed engine oil and coolant prior to start.

I didn't notice anything unusual with the exhaust besides my muffler falling off during the short drive. Shifts just fine through all 5 gears (minus having to hold the shifter in place in 5th gear because the shifter hits the body).

I topped off the rear diff when I noticed it was leaking before I moved it but I'll try to snap some pictures when I crack that open. Can't imagine it looks great.

 

I replaced the. U-bolts on the leaf springs but the hardware didn't want to cooperate. I ordered another set and they are too wide. leaving the U-bolts alone for now.

I finally started working on the front end. I got rid of all orange components to the lift.
I spent too long trying to hammer the tie rod ends off then realized that I'm replacing them and cut them off.

I bolted everything back together but still need to go back and torque down what I can. I didn't play around too much with the camber adjustment bolts because its going to need an alignment anyways.

Shocks installed (still need to torque them down). Tie rod ends installed as well as the upper/lower ball joints and idler arm.

I still need to fully tighten down the front diff hardware because getting those bolts to go in was a little tedious. Once I'm at a good stopping point on the front end, I'm going to tackle the body lift so I can figure out what size tires would look okay with the wide fenders. Let me know if you guys have any suggestions.

Reminder for myself to torque down:
Diff hardware
shocks
ball joints
tie rod ends
idler arm
knuckles

other reminders:
readdress UBolts

 

That's nice that the front diff crossmember just bolts in. all of the new stuff you have to cut it out. then if you wana go back to stock you need to weld it back in. good progress!