The radiator support wasn't attached to the frame?? Yikes.
So based on all the things you have said including bashed on balancer, on your truck you have pretty much figured out you are going to have to go through everything to check for this kind of hideous workmanship. I think you will have no problem getting your truck sorted out so it can be a really fun safe vehicle.
A friend just brought me his engine because his 235 was making noise, look at what I found on all the intake valves... His PO obviously was related to yours. BTW, great writeups keep them coming they are very helpful for others.
Steve
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Last edited by sstock; 12/29/2019 3:43 PM.
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