I've seen a couple of trucks like that. They used to be K30s until the PO sold the Dana 60 and installed a Dana 44 and they still want the K30 price. I even saw a CC K30 with 1/2T axles. Sad thing is some people will still grab it.
It's a manual transmission, only electronics would be the VSS (if 2wd), reverse light switch, and maybe a switch to tell the PCM what gear the vehicle is in.
You didn't get fooled. You've got a Dana 44 HD.
Just remember when looking for a D60 to look for the kingpin ball joints. 4 bolt caps on the upper ball joint.
I've never been a fan of the whole one color vehicle. Don't get me wrong it is a cool look (on some vehicles).
I just wouldn't own one. The reason is I want people to see the vehicle's beauty through the body lines and the offsets of the body lines.
Check your frame at the steering gear. If there are no cracks look at each moving part of the steering linkage. Even a little at each part adds up.
Edit: @waynew you beat me too it. lol
Since you live in TX, I would go every 2-3 years for a battery. Heat kills them just like the cold.
BTW, after you replace the battery, check your terminal connections at the starter and on the alt bracket for cleanliness and tightness.