You can make most anything fit and work, if you have the creativity, the skills, the tools, and the patience. Much of what you are talking about is not "bolt-in" because these old trucks didn't come with V-8's and TH transmissions. Dropping in a trans/engine is relatively easy, just requires new mounts which can be bought or you can make. You will likely need a different rear axle, the open type because you probably have a torque tube type. Then you have to mess with driveshafts, emergency brake cables, etc. The front clip is a totally different beast. I don't know if your Nova clip will work but if it does, get ready for lots of fitting and alignment issues. When you use a clip from another vehicle, remember that your fenders mount to the radiator support, which must be located precisely on the new clip. Stuff like gas tanks...you should be able to fit one relatively easily, just need to run a new fuel line, locate the filler, etc. You can make some of your old gauges work like the speedo, ammeter, and temp gauge. The oil pressure gauge range will likely be too low compared to the 50+psi a small block chevy oil pump will put out. The gas gauge is a little trickier, especially when changing sending units and going to 12 V. As much as I like the looks of the stock gauges, I personally prefer replacing the old gauges with new ones like Autometer, for reliability. They look good too, just not stock, thats all. Regardless of what your abilities or ambitions are, you have come to the right forum...a wealth of information here.
