The only better choice would be a 261, and they're not exactly easy to find or inexpensive when you do. The 54 model 235 will be an almost direct-fit swap, since it will use the same water pump as the splash-oiler 235, and will probably bolt in with the same mounts. You might have to do a little tweaking on the exhaust pipe unless you use the original 235 intake/exhaust manifold assembly. The insert-bearing engine is a good choice, simply because it can get an "in the frame" rebuild down the line by simply changing piston rings and bearings. Adjusting the oil clearance on splash-oiler rods is getting to be a dying art. I'm 70 years old, and I'm probably among the last of the guys who made a living working on the older stovebolts. The splash-oiler engines served us well 75 years ago, but for commercial use, we have better options now. Too bad you're not a little closer to Tennessee!
Jerry
