I would run the numbers on your engine and see if it's original or even a 216. Not alot of the 216's stayed in there original trucks. If it's not the original engine, I would definitely go with the upgrade. (I would go small block myself)
Do what feels right, it's only money. Around these parts, Big Brother has a program to have people turn in the vehicles that smoke excessively so the Barney Fife types can shut you down. I don't totally disagree but, old vehicles smoke and are usually used occassionally.
Just my 2 cents,
Scott


Scott Ward

2 1948 1.5-ton Loadmasters
The red one and The snow pusher
1 1950 3100
1 1955.1 Chevy 6500
1 1954 Chevy 6500 2-Ton
1 1955 1st Series COE 5700
1 1963 K20 (454)
1 1964 C10 (350)
1 1951 1.5-ton Dump Truck
1953 and a 1956 Ford F800

Raising a teenager is like trying to nail Jello to a tree!