you are right about using newer open driveline conversion.. I have come around to your way of thinking... I have a 74 nova 250 running gear ( still in the car with everything I need.. just need to see if the 216 is worth staying with.. I can mate the 250 with the 63 4 speed ( granny gear) out to the .308 / 1 rear ( 5 bolt wheel) or use a blazer rear end and get 6 bolt wheels...thanks for the direction..