+1 on the 857.
Runs all bands, 100W on HF, removable faceplate and they are everywhere. Hook it up to a good antenna and you're all set. I have one for my Jeep with the ATAS-120 antenna. Slick setup, but there are better antennas.
Well, it may be a mess, but once it is done, you'll be abe to fix anything in the field.
Do not feel too badly, I have done the same thing if it was for sale near me.
And, for the record, it is still a cool truck.
They bought back my 1996 4x4 in 2008. I wanted a new frame, but they would not do it. I pad $10,500 for it in 2002, they gave me $10,700 for it.
I *almost* bought a 2008, but went with a Jeep instead. I had no idea the next generation had issues too.
+1 on SpiderTrax spacers, I've been running them for 2+ years with zero issues both on road and off road. I chose them because 4 spacers are way less $$ than 5 rims.
+1 more on the AEV - very impressive kit. I have the 3.5" and have used it on everything from dirt roads to 8-9 rated trails, and then drove 100 miles home like nothing happened.
Hmm... 2K seems like a good investment to have it fixed well, $2700 even seems reasonable. Cheaper than a replacement and you can enjoy the body work you invested in.
I have them on my Jeep. If you attach them to the roof rack, noise should not be an issue. Only the brackets near the door on my (no rack) make noise. Fuel milage is unchanged. Mine have not iced up either, a non-issue. Hope that helps.