The pre 74 4x4s had a closed front knuckle, I would want to stay away from those, but its easy enough to change the front axle out for a newer design, and Dodge 4x4 truck front axle up to 93 will bolt onto the 72-75 springs. You have to watch the wheel bolt pattern, there were (2) 1/2 ton versions and a 3/4 and a heavy duty 1 ton versions.

I also think I would rather have a 73 & newer truck, 72 being the 1st of the new model had a few things that fit 72 only.
Other then rust (look at the frames and crossmembers where they attach at the frames), which shouldn't be much of an issue for you, they were good trucks. The 3/4 tons were better for towing or hauling heavy loads then a 1/2 ton, but many a cars were hauled around on open trailers pulled by 1/2 ton pickups. Dodge made light duty and heavy duty versions of a 1/2 ton, for your purposes, I would probably not suggest the light duty 1/2 ton truck. Gene