There are also ways to make internal upgrades to a 216 that make it perform very close to later model engines, and also increase the oil pressure, horsepower, and reliability. These modifications can be completely hidden, so even an "expert" can't tell it from an original engine without disassembling it. The modifications aren't inexpensive by any means, but it you're planning to drive the truck frequently, it's certainly worth considering. Even if you choose to keep the original engine untouched, a different 216 can be modified for use as a daily driver. I'm working on modifications like fitting 235 aluminum pistons, a high volume oil pump, the improved main bearing seal, and possibly even fitting the same camshaft as the 6 cylinder Corvette engine ran. That would end up with a 224 cubic inch engine with very good oil pressure and considerably more power than an unmodified 216. Putting in the 3.55:1 ratio rear end gears that are available would produce a 55-60 MPH highway cruiser that looks bone-stock! "There's no substitute for cubic dollars!"
Jerry
