The best yr. would be a second gen. and 1 yr in particular, 1985. The reasons are simple, EFI and a straight axle. Short box long box or extra-cab it doesn't matter which one. I'm partial to a lwb. If you want a 1st gen. then get an 83 since it will sport a 22r. The trans is still a weak point even with the 5 speed, you should never ever use 5th in low range will go away if you do. This continued through the 1st half of 84, and is another reason to get an 85.
