A 283 will be a giant leap backwards in torque, and possibly horsepower as well. Do you have a 283 engine already? If not, I need to talk with you by PM. You'll still need the cast iron V8 bellhousing that was used from mid-year 1955 to 1961 or so, the one that was mentioned in a previous post. DO NOT dispose of that GMC engine!
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!