[StingRay]

It kind of depends what you want. I just went through my smallblock and spent about 4 grand Canadian. That got my block decked, bored, torque plate honed, line bored, crank ground and recip assy balanced, heads milled and rebuilt. I got new hypereutectic pistons and all other consumable parts. This also inclued a new 2101 Performer as the old one while salvageable was getting a bit too corroded around the flanges at the water passages. It also includes a set of Comp Cams roller tiped rockers and a true roller chain set. I then spent alot of time cleaning painting, detailing and assembling everything just the way I like. I even had some parts powdercoated. My engine is built mild but is capable with a bigger cam and a bit better heads of being a real screamer. In the short run it is a very strong performer and is great for day to day driving and towing. As said my warranty is me.

Had I chosen a crate motor I could have had more power for the same or less money and a warranty to boot. I would not have the precision machining and balancing, file fit rings and heavy older castings that I have though. I probably would have had to decide on a specific purpose for the motor and not have some of the flexability that i have now either.

If the engine has not run in 15 years then untill you have it apart and see if the cylinders are pitted or not and the block has no cracks it really isn't even a choice.

A 3 sp manual will run a few rpm slower than a TH350 or TH400 will but not really worth much in my opinion. I like the auto unless you go wilth something with 4 to 6 forward gears. I have 3.73's and my truck will run all day at 3000 plus RPM with no problems.