Kyle S,
The major differences between your 1954 (and earlier) 235 and the 1956 and later 235s is that earlier rod-bearing and main-bearing adjustments were made using different numbers of shims.
If you do not have a 1954 Chevrolet Truck Shop Manual, reproduction printings are available, and
a copy is on-line.
With regards to engine rebuild parts, Egge & Kanter seem to be common choices. Wait to hear from a pro like Jerry (Hotrod Lincoln) and Dragsix, etc. I think my engine shop used Egge parts for my 1954 235 truck engine (and a 261 camshaft - the one used on Corvettes 235s).
