Putting the add-ons on the engine isn't that tough. And $5k for rebuilding a long block isn't that bad. I just had a 7.3L diesel rebuilt and it cost me ~$8k for the long block returned to me. Myself and a buddy bolted everything else on and reinstalled it. Yes, it was some work, but nothing super technical.
We could probably talk you through installing the stuff on a long block. I'll bet the shops local to you could rebuild your 270(s).

When I lived in CA ages ago, engine swaps could be registered with DMV. And that should only matter if the registration was done with an engine serial number instead of vehicle serial number. But that was before smog checks. Your trucks are likely old enough not to require smog checks. Call DMV and ask about it.

Last edited by klhansen; 10/08/2025 10:20 PM.
Kevin
1951 Chevy 3100 work truck
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1929 Ford pickup restored from the ground up. | 1929 Ford Special Coupe (First car)
Busting rust since the mid-60's
If you're smart enough to take it apart, you darn well better be smart enough to put it back together.