I'm looking to purchase a truck for tasks around the house. The cars I have just aren't suited for hauling anything of size. I prefer the smaller trucks with long beds. So I came across a 1999 Dakota SLT with the 3.9L V6, regular cab with 8' bed and 177k miles. Asking $1800 OBO.

Replaced within the past 2 years were the serp belt, battery, plugs/wires, complete front end (tie rods, ***** joints, etc) except sway bar link, cap/rotor, ac compressor, and brake pads.

I looked at the truck last night and test drove it. There's small dings/rust but honestly I just care that the drivetrain is stable and relatively reliable. It's not a daily driver and can be left in the garage to be fixed if something's broken. Seller mentioned the CEL comes on/off for a misfire code (hence why the plugs/wires were replaced) but it still happens. Hole in the muffler was welded. Pulls to the right. Tires are very close (~1/8") to the wear bar. Engine was warm before I test drove it. When I put my hand on the metal piece above the radiator, it was very hot. Felt too hot and not normal to me.

If I purchase it, it'll need to pass both inspection and emissions.

Question is, is this thing worth buying? Even if it needs a new exhaust, radiator (or other cooling system part), tires, and CEL problem? Looking for honest opinions and suggestions.