just get it runnin - @ a minimum cost. use junk yrds if U can (I just don't know ur section of the canadian prairie regarding availability of these oldsters). ele prts R best from the 'store' in most cases, ck in w/us if U want on decisions between the two.
The one thing I say to most who ask that Q is get the end goal/application in mind thru some solid research (got some other sites for U 2 study) & comparing that in ur mind to what U want/need. Get 1 rig in ur mind that is firm, don't change that but instead wrk hard to fulfill it w/o wavering all the way to the end (so many new to this start in 1 direction, go to another, and then a third & come up w/a mess that cost them alota money). Like U say it can B a long term project. Lots of adults give up 1/2 way thru. Safety and running well come 1st, looks later. Again, as a 1st one, stock, reliable, simple may B the best. You'll get some experience that U can use for the next /or/ when done & in use awhile U can adapt to ur needs as they change. Heck, by then U may want something entirely different! 8^0
So can't answ well till knowing the current condition. So far it's $80, no? Got a job, allowance, 'family bank(er)"? Let's C how lill we gotta 'tap' that. I'm an adult & must live by that rule myself...
Thanks 4 the chance to B involved, hope I aint blabin too much!