If you look at the gallery photos of my 39 there is a 228 in there
It was a nice engine with better than Chevy power and very good
mileage.228's and 248's both suffer from a very heavy pistons and less than wonderful combustion chamber shape.
I drove the 228 as an original stock old used-up motor to hopped up blueprinted Chevy eater. It was fun
When I had the chance to go to a 302 I did it.
292 just won't make the power and torque of a 302
You want cheap power go to small block Chevy
You want class stick with the GMC six

I use Nicson intake and cast iron headers and an Isky cam

I would think of a 270-302 head on a 228 with flat top pistons
kindda a nice mix of parts and power.....and mileage

And get ready for Long Motor Envy from the guys with little car motored trucks

It's all fun!!!!