I will never put a V8 in my 37 as long as I can get parts for the 235,I over came the drivability problems with a T-5 and modern rear end and my truck looks stock except it sits a little lower now. Jeff
The problem is, there are so few aftermarket parts for the 235 to really modernize it. It's an engine that is just not supported by GM, nor even significantly by the aftermarket.
If putt putting around with 80 to 110 hp and slowing down on every hill doesn't bother a person, sure, it's a good, reliable motor that will just about run forever.
If I could have even possibly gotten 1 hp per cubic inch, I probably would have kept the 235. I did try to find a 292 but was unsuccessful. The 350 was available and was sitting right in my garage. But none of my mods are irreversible.
And in regards to Hotrod Lincoln's post, it depends on what the average V8 conversion is. It's hard to compare apples to apples here. Because a 4-valve V-6 or I-6 is not a common thing to see. Having had an '82 Supra with a 4-valve I-6, yes it had very good midrange torque, but wouldn't hold a candle to the much stronger torque of my 350 motor. But then again, maybe my 350 is not your average V8 either. Compared with a 305, yes, I would have to agree with you. The 305 was the biggest waste of iron I've ever seen.
