I have a 55 f-100.  The problem is that its all original.  now that in itself isnt a problem, but i want a hot-rod so bad that i can taste it.  I just dont want to ruin this truck. You dont find them as orig. as this one!!  68xxx orig mi. I'm the 3rd owner.  It has never been converted from the 6-v system, and was running when it was parked in 86.  WHAT DO I DO?????????  

If it has been parked since 86 it doesn't seem like it is worth having an "original",  if you would appreciate it more as a hot rod-go for it. I'm sure there are many who disagree with my views.  Your other option is getting another one to rod.  I personally am in the process of "rodding" one.  I didn't start with much so I dont have to feel bad about taking away from original.
Matt  

If you spend your money wisely in the right upgrades, and do it tastefully, you won't be ruining it, you will be improving it as well making it more reliable and enjoyable to drive it. Just don't rush into it without a well thought out plan, and try not to get in over your head financially with it or you could lose interest and not finish it. That would be a cryin' shame and the downfall of an otherwise really cool truck.  

Matt,
 I appreciate the input.  I kinda feel the same way that you do, but when i tried to turn the engine over by hand, the block isnt siesed up.  I took the valve cover off and everything appears to be in great shape. the next step is to give it some gas and a little juice to seee if it'll fire up.  Nobody said it would be easy i guess.  Original trucks are extremely hard to find, and worth a pretty penny while going up in value stedily.  Id spend quite a bit either way i go, but .....  i'm   really torn!

                              Fuzzy  

I've been facing the same problem with my 57 chev pickup-it just seems a waste to loose all those factory goodies when they're in such good condition.
 So I've decided in only minor mods -drop springs, flame job, dual carbs on the original six cyl, some rare wood for the bed. Too many mods take away from the experience of driving an older vehicle. Besides, I kinda like all that old widgetry.  

I'm kinda leening in the same direction,except for the flames.  I've been thinking of building a "period type" hot rod.  The type you'd see in the late 60's to early 70's.  I kinda like the nostalgic look.