Hi,
$10k is the goal, not really a hard set limit. I'd say without the paint job I really need to stay below $10k. Already found the c3 for $5500 drive out the door price if I choose to do this. It only has mild interior issues (the carpet and steering wheel could stand to be replaced)
After some digging I managed to find a LY2 (LS family) engine, accompanying 4 speed, and ECU out of a Silverado 1500 for $1560
online.
This leads me to believe I could do much better by searching junkyards. But at the same time, if I can keep this in budget, not have to deal with junk yards, and get the benefit of http://info.automotix.net's 1 year warranty on parts, I'll go the online route.
Really as long as I can manage upper 20's highway, keep it under $10k, and not get so frustrated that I hate myself, I want to do this. Just need to make sure it's feasible before I start buying things.
Also, I found this
diesel c3. That's also quite interesting.
Thanks!
Scott