In 1985 when my 1977 inline 6 cylinder head was not available nor
replacement advisable because of cracking, I swapped the 100k mile engine
for a V8 with all the necessary externals.  Had to figure out where all the
vacuum lines were connected.  I had the cat welded to new mufflers and tail
pipes; swapped the radiator for a V8 radiator with heat exchanger for
autotrans; etc.  Different engine mounts.
That was before all the computers, anti-lock brakes, transmission controls,
etc.  How difficult is swapping a 1995 or newer engine w/trans into say a
1977 Chevy Pickup Truck?  Wire harnesses should be changed; chip firmware of
cpu specialized; etc.   To difficult and outright rediculous?  Is this more
than a pipe dream?  Or is it much more expensive than ditching it and
getting a newer vehicle?

Perhaps I can answer my own questions by saying the vehicle:
1.  Is a major recall for safety hazzard during accident (gas tank on
outside of frame)
2.  Ride is attrocious without 500lbs in bed.
3.  Rot in passenger door.
4.  Presently 9mpg city/14 hwy
5.  Low cost insurance and registration (a plus)
6.  Only paid $1100 when 1st purchased & spent $3K replacing engine (cheap
for 21 years use)
7.  City will pay $650 to buy the gas guzzler / smog poluter (it does pass
for original standards)
8.  It's great for hauling my boat, another vehicle, furniture, trash, etc.

Think I should sell it to city and get a new vehicle?  Safety first?