As always, I was still editing. Sorry. Read again in case. Get a carburetor motor. No computer stuff. Be patient, keep looking at Craigslist every day.
Portland area.
https://portland.craigslist.org/grg/pts/d/lincoln-city-57l-v8-350-complete-motor/6833770246.htmlIf you don't know much about mechanics and motors, maybe there is nothing bad wrong. Always have to be sure. Check the oil to see if it is milky or brown or too full. If it's normal then maybe you don't have a bad gasket. Check the "knock" with a stethoscope or broom handle to identify where it is coming from. Some "knocks" are just the exhaust manifold leaking or timing/spark knock.
Steamy white smoke can be just condensation because of humidity right now. Thick smoke that does not go away after warm up is maybe gasket leak.
I know some about motors - but mostly vw aircooled. The knock is pretty loud and started up after it was out for a run and warned up. I noticed the water still dripping from the tail pipes. Didn't smell of coolant, but kept coming well after it should have stoped in my opinion. Then I revved the engine and watched and saw some white smoke. Nothing that would blind a car behind, but enough to recognize its not just condensation. I did use a screwdriver as a stethoscope, but couldn't pinpoint the noise. I do need to check the oil today and look for milky water.
Lastly, I looked at the casting # and this engine is a good wrench 1986 and up. One I see for sale is a 1972 block - rebuilt a while ago, but running. I'm guessing no big harm in an older block if its good, or any differences? The link you sent is also a good example.
