If you really want a Cuda, don't stop looking!
I don't know how often I have kicked my butt for not starting to look for one when I was in my teens. Like everyone is saying, they are getting more scarce (at least the affordable ones). I would guess that the affordable ones are going endup being cars that need new frame rails along with all the usual quarters and pans that are gone!
Like Kelly said, life is short. If you don't put yourself in over your head (you don't need the stress) and it makes you happy do it! I have lived my life that way and luckily have had the pleasure of owning some really fun, nice cars. I don't regret the fact it stretched me financially at all because I had lots of fun with them.
Go ahead and fix your truck, but personally I wouldn't sink a lot into it. It will come in handy when you do get the Cuda. :beer: :wasted: