I'll pull a motor in a heartbeat rather than work on it while installed. My little L134 for example... adjusting valve lash on an L head in the frame is doable, but not a fun afternoon. By the time I take off the fender, exhaust, steering etc to get enough room make the adjustment, I could have spent an extra 30 minutes to take out the motor and do the work while sitting comfortably in my shop chair.
If you motor is matching, or a specific time period (aka 'early' vs 'late' features) the issue of crate vs DIY is not even an option. I think that is also an important consideration.
I'd pay good money for a proper 40's 235 motor for my truck. Babbit bearings, dippers and all.
