I didn't know a new block cost that much Todd. I am going to drag home the truck my engine is still in this afternoon. I should have the motor out and torn down by tomorrow evening and off to the machine shop Monday to have it checked out. I might pick up the vortec motor Monday as well just in case. If I don't have to use it now, I'll have a spare that I might build with higher goals somewhere down the road.
Now, someone stop me if I am going about this wrong. Is the '97 block and crank/rods better to use than the '77 I am about to tear apart?
I'm at a point where I can start on either one (once I buy the vortec motor Monday) so if anyone has good advice on which one to build please tell me now.
I really want to express my grattitude to everyone who has responded to this thread. You all have helped me a bunch and I really appreciate you taking the time to help me out on this.
Eric