I'm basically doing a build your own glider right now and I'm on the last leg of it but it's a mother of a job and I wouldn't recommend it to anybody who doesn't employ a mechanic or hire one. Seems if you have the money you should just pay somebody to do it. Blew by 50k a long long time ago....but then again they sell for $180,000 new. However when It's done it will be priceless to me. My truck was a good clean southern truck to start with but I've done it all. New cab mounts, engine, trans, drive shaft, motor mounts, radiator, new heavy pin front axle, interior, windows, exterior, wheels, bearings, tires, brakes, hub seals, shocks, rear bushings, etc. etc. I too believe the EPA is knocking down the doors of the emission free builds. They had Pittsburgh Power put their power boxes on hold. Just a matter of time.
I got impatient and almost bought a 2009 Pete last week but then smacked myself on the head. I've learned when it comes to class 8 trucks there are no deals. You just have to fork out the money or sacrifice specs, mileage, wear, comfort, style, etc. Mainly wear. Lot's of great trucks that are near worn out.
A Cat C15 6NZ long block will set you back around $20k and a complete one around $40k....then on and on and on. These local hauling companies around here are obviously making it happen with brand new trucks because many of them have tons of $150k trucks all over town. I'm talking 30, 50, 80 count fleets etc. One major company does 2 year leases on the entire fleet of 30 trucks. They have warranty and only hang around two years. They probably don't have too many issues and then they have so much pull they can have trucks replaced if lemons.
Just no easy way. A friend just got a nice used Pete dump truck....then the motor blew up after a month. Ouch.