Sacramento is pretty flat, so I don't think you need to worry about wearing out the clutch.
If you must go the bent engine route, that is a desirable setup. Personally I think it would be eazier to learn how to drive and replace the clutch than drop the bent engine in.
Yes but I spend a lot of my time in San Fransisco and the Bay. As far as it would be easier to learn to drive it, you are right but I have a bumb leg from Iraq that makes that rather difficult.
Also that 4.2 looks like a good swap, do you know where I can buy a new one at? Or at least a rebuilt one. I checked Jeggs already with no luck went to the GMDirect website they have them but for an arm and a leg, and I cant even tell if it is the right engine. Any help would be appreciated.