update: got amigo buddy and cleared all codes - none came back (even brake light went out permanently)

only thing left right now is the passenger side knock sensor (replacement coming to my doorstep tomorrow).

just passed emissions and have about 150 miles on it from check-drives lately.

thanks to all who helped me out here

having never done any car work at all, and as scary as it was diving in the deep end, all your help was/is very appreciated!

 

they are trying at time; that is for sure, you just have to have stronger will than the truck