Mine was doing the same thing and I had to get all the vaccum lines rerouted and also replace the fuel filter. It iddles better now. Carburetors are hard to deal with, specially the old ones. In California the carb has to be working almost perfectly in order to pass smog:birgits_tiredcoffee
I also have a 1981 GMC Sierra 1500. I preffered the original hood because I kept my truck all original. What I can suggest is that maybe you should have like a theme for the truck; for example do you want to hot rod it out- then go for it the carbon fiber hood would look good with a tough strong...
I would have to agree with Kleedus. I also dont recommend house carpet. It deteriorates very rapidly. You're better off saving some money and doing it right the first time. You can save a lot of money if you do it yourself. The carpeting nowadays comes preformed and is really easy to install...
I bought door panels from LMC also and had to drill some wholes to make it work. the back of the panel has markings to follow. At the end the truck came out looking really good!
You can actually still find some of those 1980's stereos at the Fresno Swap Meet on Sundays or the Selma Flea Market also on Sundays.
Another place you could find a radio like that is at the wrecking yards. Youd be surprised you can get lucky sometimes and will find good stuff at the Auto...