I don't you think a small displacement v8 will be all that and a bag of chips on a 2 ton truck, Can't seem it being worthwhile for all the work compared to what the 261 can do. So, I think a stroker 383 would be a better power plant unless you plan on driving the truck empty only. Piston crank kits are cheap and will turn a 350 small block into a torquey powerplant with the right camshaft. IMHO

1953 Chevrolet 3100
261 cu inch, sm420, 3.55 rear, torque tube still,omaha orange, still 6 volt, RPO green glass, side carrier spare, all done
In the DITY Gallery
Video of the 261 running

1964 GMC 1000
305 Big Block V6, sm420, the next cab off restoration