What to do with my 1998 2.4L 2WD

I have a '98 2.4 approaching 200K miles but it runs like a top.
This truck came out of Florida a few years before I bought it. It's been in the Northeast about 10-12 years but remarkably the frame is still in great shape. However the rockers are shot and the front fenders are bad. Also needs a new front bumper and I've had a nightmare time tracking down the right parts (it was missing a few parts and not attached properly when I bought it as a result of a minor accident).

The truck is at that point of "what should I do?" I am tempted to restore it because I love it and it's been extremely functional for me. I however do not have the body skills or the time to really bring it back and I suspect it would cost in excess of $5K to take it to a shop. However, it seems like to see any gain in truck I'd have to spent closer to $10K.
I'd love to give it new fenders, rockers, bumper, front lights, seats and a paint job. Crazy?

I would like more towing capacity. I have a tool trailer that seems to be at the limits of this truck, but it does tow it. I added HD springs last year from General Spring. These things are already more rusty than the frame!

Appreciate any feedback.

 

Just Do It

 

Thanks Black Dog - yea I've been reading up on Fluid Film. I would definitely start treating the truck with that if I restore it.