I went through the same conundrum, just with an m35, bought it KNOWING reliability is an issue if it's neglected, haven't regretted it. Dollar for dollar, a wrangler and a hmmwv are going to be about the same, and be about the same amount of work, especially now days. I say do it, buy a cheaper truck, go through it, learn it, maintain it, wash, rinse, repeat. As long as you're ready for a long term investment, the hmmwv will treat you well, just check your local DMV for registration/plate info, that might also influence your decision.