My beloved old Ram is history, thanks to a minor fender bender and the cruel algorithms of the insurance company. I won't have much to work with (around $7500), so I will have to buy something older and/or high mileage. I average 45k miles/year, so I need something reliable. Also, my work frequently takes me off-pavement, and I feel like I need something a little more rugged than this S10 I'm borrowing right now. That said, I have some general questions.

Diesel--any reason to avoid a diesel engine?

4WD--I have been dying for this since I started fishing, so now is my chance. There are plenty of 4WDs on Craig's List and it looks feasible price wise. But is this a PITA as far as maintenance goes, or a big risk of potential headaches?

Make/Model--any particular make or model that's known for lasting forever?

Toolbox--how much can I ask for my UWS toolbox? Black diamond, year and half old, very good condition. Deep box (19" I believe), will only fit a Dodge with extended bed/wheel base, not sure about other makes. State Farm wants to give me $90 for it, but I'll let it collect dust in the barn before I give it to them for that price.