Either tweekers or back woods rednecks I would say. On a lot on hwy 299 between Redding and Alturas.
If put together properly, I would do it and run it.
Might have to cut the front, rear fender and be able to put something bigger than 265's.
Had a buddy in the 80's, do a van and a El camino in 4x4 back in the days. Probably before your times there Rob.
EDIT- I'm heading up that way next weekend, if anyone's seriously interested in this one, could make a quick stop on my way through and see how much and what's there.