If you do decide to use the 283, I'd suggest a few more gears- - - -like maybe a 2 speed rear end, or a Brownie. As I mentioned before, a lugged-down short stroke engine won't get out of its own way. I'd suggest a big block Chevy for doing some serious freight hauling- - - -a 427 or 454. You can find some low mileage big blocks in retired motorhomes.
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!