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I expect this is a stupid question, but is it possible to use the head from the 216 on a 235?
That is not a stupid question. A head from a 216 should work on a 235 ONLY IF the 235 is a 1953 or earlier, low-pressure 235 engine.

Check out the head-bolt patterns on this page.

Tim
1954Advance-Design.com
1954 3106 Carryall Suburban
1954 3104 5-window pickup w/Hydra-Matic
The 216 and early 235 engines are not "splash oilers" -- this is a splash oiler.