I prefer a "seasoned" block myself. but I found out a few years ago when I wanted a 377 SBC for a Fiero project, that I couldn't buy the parts for what I could get an assembled short block from Speedomotive. they've been around since Moses was a pup, and they still do awesome work. spotless clean inside and out, fully coated valley, and a spec sheet, including all bearing clearances, came with it. still runs great today!

YMMV,
Lot