MikeP, thanks for the tips. I do understand that a 350 swap would be the simple and more cost-effective way to go. I have so much of my history tied to this car and the "stockness" of it over the years that I don't want to go that route. I'm willing to spend more to retain the factory block and basic appearance in the engine bay. I was wondering if the forged pistons and rods would be more than needed, I've seen other posts about building the 283 that used them but they were building more of a drag strip car.
I would like to use the Rams horn manifolds, but it seems like they drop out right on top of the frame in this car, is that not the case? I might be talked into a set of short headers , but I also think I would have to re-think clearance issues with steering so I may be settling with the stock manifolds just to keep it more simple. The only set of sidepipes I've been able to find besides straight lake pipes are the "corvette style" ones in the longest size from Patriot Exhaust. I like that look and the fact that they have a glass pack style muffler to dampen some of the overall sound. Again, I want it more streetable so I don't want straight unmuffled pipes.
Thanks for the heads up on the larger 2bbl needing a different intake manifold and air cleaner. My hope was to use the factory air cleaner for the appearance because that is the first thing I see when I pop the hood. If I have to change intake and carb and aircleaner, that may just send me the way of upgrading to a Quadrajet set up. Something I was trying to stay away from for appearances sake, but maybe that's the way to go.
I had already read through your engine build thread and appreciate all the time you took to document it for us.
I was wondering if the 1.94 valves would be larger than needed and sacrifice low end performance. Does the exhaust valve need to be enlarged to match the larger intake valve?