Thanks guys, I appreciate all the compliments! I would cross the straps if I could, but they aren't long enough. The lucky thing is, the rear tires on most stuff I tow is between the fenders on the trailer so side to side isn't a huge concern there. I am blessed to have not had any issues so far, and that perticular day was 950 miles without issue!
When I went to register the M1009, I checked to see if "CUCV" was available, and got really lucky! My 2nd choice was M1009A1, but I wasn't sure if the A1 was appropriate.
It has 83,000 miles. The only rust the truck has is on the rockers, the drivers is a little worse than the passenger, but neither are bad at all. I'm really impressed with it. The Flowmasters sound really good, the upgrade to 2.5" helped. I had the guy tuck the tailpipes up a little closer to the tire and body to keep them out of harms way when off road. The more I drive it, the better it runs. I think it needed to be "cleaned out" because my mileage went up to a little over 18 from 16.5 my first tank. My idle has smoothed out also. I think it may need injectors because it smokes fuel at idle a little.
I'm glad you guys like my Ford, I am a Ford guy really, but I respect and enjoy GM's too. That truck is completely rust free. I purchased it from the original owner in Sacramento California in 08. It had 91,000 miles on it. I got it for 1200 dollars, and flew out from Detroit to bring her home. It's a 6.9 diesel, 4 speed, 4x4. I put a Dana 60 front in it, so I guess its sort of a Ford M1008
The only other mod I have to do is put in a 5 speed I bought from a 1990 diesel.
Again, thanks for the warm welcome guys!