Keith, welcome to the forum and congrats on getting a vehicle that is getting harder to find inside someone's garage. You will be "at home" here on the bolt. There are several suburban/panel guys here including myself. Drug one home the end of 2005 and just now getting to enjoy it.(Check photobucket below)

Sounds as though you have a plan. The valve cover appears to be of a 235 engine so someone has changed it along the way. Hopefully it will run good and save you some headaches there.

As you probably already know, there is a forum for panels and burbs and many other forums for whatever you questions may be. Work on it a little EVERY day.... at least 15 minutes, and you will be amazed at what gets done. Even if its just looking at a catalog and ordering a few "small cost" items you know you'll need. That is your 15 minutes for the day and keeps you motivated. Take LOTS of pictures along the way. We like them and you'll end up needing them.
We are all here to help. Good luck.

1937 Chevy Pickup
In the Gallery
1952 Chevy Panel
In the Gallery
More photos
1950 Chevy Coupe
Pictures!

I'd rather walk and carry a Chevy hub cap than ride in a Ferd.
I can explain it to you, but I can't understand it for you smile