87 Ram 50 4x4 "junkyard" rescue,

[WarStryker13]

I did find a used header for $60 that was never installed, but it's meant for a 1st gen... Was there any change in the engine compartment dimensions between first gen and second gen? If I can get it to fit with a few dents I might just get it now so I'll have a starting point to build off of when I replace the rust that used to be an exhaust pipe. lol

Would pulling the stock carb apart and cleaning it potentially tear gaskets or diaphragms? I didn't order a rebuild kit yet because I'd rather just switch to the Weber, but what I'm thinking is the carb hadn't seen fresh gas for a few years before I drove it and there's a bunch of crap built up inside it. If it's just a matter of being a little careful while pulling it apart, then I can go ahead and pull the carb off once I get the truck into the garage. If not and the stock gaskets are made of wet toilet paper, the truck will most likely not be moving until after Feb. 1st so I'll have plenty of time to get a rebuild kit from RockAuto or order a new Weber...

How bad are the stock brakes? I definitely had the brake pedal all the way to the floor a few times, and I haven't had a chance to look yet but I'm guessing all of the brake hoses are dry rotted and leaking all over the place. Any brand/manufacturer suggestions for hoses, lines, pads, rotors, shoes, drums, etc?

[FMS88]

Would pulling the stock carb apart and cleaning it potentially tear gaskets or diaphragms? I didn't order a rebuild kit yet because I'd rather just switch to the Weber, but what I'm thinking is the carb hadn't seen fresh gas for a few years before I drove it and there's a bunch of crap built up inside it. If it's just a matter of being a little careful while pulling it apart, then I can go ahead and pull the carb off once I get the truck into the garage. If not and the stock gaskets are made of wet toilet paper, the truck will most likely not be moving until after Feb. 1st so I'll have plenty of time to get a rebuild kit from RockAuto or order a new Weber...

Many on this site will recommend that you go to the Weber without trying to rebuild the stock Mikuni. Rebuild kits don't have all the diaphragms and parts you may need, and the instructions are nothing more than an exploded diagram. Plus getting the Mikuni apart, cleaned and reassembled correctly without loosing something can be challenge. I've rebuilt 4 or 5 but only two had successful outcomes. If you're really curious and have the time, go ahead and try, but if this is your first Mikuni rebuild, save yourself a headache and get the Weber.