By the description of your 283 it should have good power. Your choice of engine for this truck should be based on what rpm you'll be running at. A stock 292 and a stock 283 with a 4 bbl have similar peak torque numbers but at different speeds. The 292 will have peak torque at around 2000 rpm and the 283 will be close to 2400 rpm. Your ignition, cam and carb set up might affect the peak torque but it'll most likely peak at a higher speed than the 292. A 283 with a 2 bbl carb will have slightly lower torque values at all speeds than a stock 292. Check your rearend ratio and tire diameter to determine what your cruising rpm will be. If it's above 2400 rpm, the 283, if it has a 4 bbl carb, might be a better choice for this truck. I've been through all this in my head already because I'm facing the same decision for my 1-ton. It should do 55 at 2370 rpm; right on the border line. I also have a 1/2 ton that needs an engine and it will cruise at much lower rpm so I'm planning to put the 283 in the 1-ton and the 292 in the half ton. Good luck with it.
