Newbie Advice Needed for Interior Refurb

[TimeExposure]

Last week my Dad gave me his '82 GMC Sierra 3/4 ton single cab. It is a bare-bones model: no headliner, no carpet, no power windows or locks, and a stick shift on the floor. I want to address the interior bits first, as the drivetrain/brakes are in good running order, and I'm undecided about fresh paint as I like the "patinated" look of a work truck. Here's my question:

I had originally planned on replacing the bits (dash, seats, door panels, etc.) with OEM style parts similar if not identical to the original. It has a bench seat now. Would you consider putting buckets with a console for convenience? I don't think originality will be particularly important on a rusty 220k-mile work truck with a basic Sierra package (if you could even call it a "package.") But part of me wants it to look like I remember it 38 years ago. Is that just dumb for a worn out basic work truck when I can spruce it up for convenience and comfort? Final question: does the gear shift on the floor limit what I can put in for seats? And will a cab with a bench seats need mods to bolt down a different configuration?

Friendly advice welcome. Unfriendly advice must at least be funny. Thanks!

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[45tt]

I think if I were to do buckets again, I would get an original set out of a squarebody Blazer or if you could find them out of another square pickup. That way you know they would have the fit and finish because they are made for squares. I did buckets on one of my squares and I regretted getting rid of the bench. It looked fine but modifications were needed to get it to work and I was still missing the center console. Just my two cents.

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[Grit dog]

Personal opinion and no offense to @45tt above, I don't like the look of basically any newer model seats/trim etc in a vehicle that is being "restored" (using that term loosely for the purists, lol).
Subtle changes that improve comfort or function but "look" original notwithstanding. Example, the "billet" looking inserts for dash and door trim, look clean, but IMO they don't look "right."
Personally, I'd get a dash pad, door panels, floor rubber or carpet if needed, new OE looking seat cover or have it redone in a period correct look and go with that.

The beauty of it is, it's your truck, so make it what YOU want.

 

[Curt]

I like Buckets.

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[Lil'm]

Bench

 

[Dave M]

Definitely bench !

 

[CoggedBelt75]

Kinda like asking a guy if he likes boxers or briefs. Go for what ya what. I like either but prefer buckets.
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[Curt]

Kinda like asking a guy if he likes boxers or briefs. Go for what ya what. I like either but prefer buckets.
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nice ride

 

[idahovette]

I like whatever fits my butt and doesn't hurt my back!!

 

[Bud Calabrese]

Kinda like asking a guy if he likes boxers or briefs. Go for what ya what. I like either but prefer buckets.
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What buckets are those? Hoping aftermarket as they look perfect for my 78 k5

 

[Cemack]

I like the bench. Your girlfriend can sit much closer to you with the bench.

 

[82sbshortbed]

I got buckets down center console from a burb.

Sorry no pics

 

[peats]

buckets,girlfriends are overrated.

 

[tobiahr]

The factory buckets from the Suburban's will bolt up to the factory bolt holes if you bend the rear mounting tabs on the back of the sliders.

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[CoggedBelt75]

What buckets are those? Hoping aftermarket as they look perfect for my 78 k5

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