Thanks for all the great feedback. What a great source for information.
So, my choices so far are as follows:
1) Rebuild the 216 leaving the roap seals or one piece seal if I don't have to use any shims on the main bearings.
2) Find a doner 235 and build it the way I want it.. Here's a link to what use to be a running engine.. HOWEVER, I think this is too old and is most likely not a full pressure engine...
3) Spring for a new complete engine to swap. For instance, I did find a place that is offering a complete rebuilt 261 that will put a 216 fly wheel on it, fenton headers, single 4bbl carb, mount the plate behind the balancer and it will be basically ready for my starter and generator. Price... $4500.
I'm still not sure what to do. I don't drive the truck on long trips and still have to do body work on it and install the bed. It's really a solid truck with very little or no rust....
It's not clear to me as what to do yet....
comments?
http://portland.craigslist.org/search/pta?query=235+engine&srchType=A&minAsk=&maxAsk=
