Hi, I just found this site and have become engrossed in the "Congo Thread".
In 1979 I bought a 1/2 ton Chevy 2x4, Short Bed, 250 I-6, and a factory 'Bulldog' 4-spd. The off-pavement ability of this truck was amazing.
Key was good tires, the balance of the swb, and the 'granny' 1st gear...