There's no real reason to stick with original equipment parts where bearings, pistons, and rods are concerned. With a little creative tinkering there are a lot of "almost-fit" bits and pieces out there that a skilled machinist can adapt to a stovebolt engine. Currently, I'm assembling parts for a big block Chevy V8 and a couple of other modern engines, which will be going into a modified 261. All it takes is an engine builder who's willing to color outside the lines a little!
Jerry
