Dump the 228 for a 270 or 302 GMC 6.


http://www.oldchevytrucks.com/Showcase/the_king.php

The 270 and 302 are a virtual drop in for the 228. 1955-1962 270 and 302 gmc engines will need to have the front timing plate changed to bolt into your 1950 chassis.

Talk to Tom Langdon http://stoveboltengineco.com/
or Patrick Dykes http://www.patricksantiquecars.com/

Also look at the Inliners bulletin board http://www.inliners.org/

Don't forget there are also a lot of knowledgeable folks over at oldgmctrucks.com.

270 gmc engines were rated for 130-140 hp from the factory. 302 gmc engines were rated for 140-160 hp. the 228 in comparrison was from 88 to about 110 hp. If you're going for performance, the 270 and 302 are a much better place to start. My 302 which was linked above is built for about 225 HP. (Not dynoed). A mild 270 build should yield 175-195 hp. A mild 302 should yield 195-225 hp.