I had been driving my 55.2 3600 couple times per week until I noticed an odd noise from the engine. Oil pressure when I first got the gauge hooked up was ok but now is terrible when warm. Prev owner said it was all rebuilt, even showed me reciepts. What I found while reworking everything else on the truck however prepaired me for this. It has brand new .030 over pistons however honing a mere 30 out of the holes still leaves about another .045 rust cavern where it must have sat with water in the holes for about 30 years. The head is nicely rebuilt but the cam had never come out and the crank bearings are worn thru and show 1977 date codes.
So, much for a low budget fix. Remember I'm a VW restoration shop with a love of old chevys too so I have to ask, can these blocks be sleeved or am I looking for another one?