I had my 1960 235 done by a pro builder....the total was $2300. for name-brand parts....no cheap stuff and it included the full rotational balance, replacing 6 mismatched rods, drilling for full-flow oiling, drilled for SBC crank bolt, timing cover bolt mods, bored .060, crank turned .020, new hydraulic torque cam, zero gap rings, hardened seats, new valves, milled the head, decked the block, and resurfaced and installed the flywheel and bellhousing.
So what did I get for my $2300? An engine that is as smooth as goose-grease and peace-of-mind!!! And at this stage of my life....that's priceless!
For a short block....I'd venture a guess of $1600-$1700 with the balance job. It was $250. and the balancer threw in the set of replacement rods. However, even though my engine will probably never see 3500 rpm's I would advise getting it balanced. Part of the expense factor involved getting a builder, who is familiar with, and willing to take the time to do the little operations that make my engine run a little smoother and function in a highway environment, a whole lot faster pace than when it was manufactured.
Dave
