[d3mon]

The 290hp 12499529 is not a good choice for a truck or any heavier vehicle. As previously mentioned the compression is on the low side for a cam this big. To get this engine to run optimal in a pickup with stock size tires (31"), it would require a 2000-2500rpm stall converter and 3.73-4.10 gearing. You would be much happier with P/N 10067353 if your just looking for a replacement engine. This engine is rated from GM at 190-210 using stock manifolds etc, I have seen it advertised from 230-260hp using performance manifolds and a good carb. The 10067353 will give you the power down low where you can really use it. This doesn't mean that everyone will be unhappy with the 12499529 in a heavier vehicle. It all depends on converter, gearing, tire size, and personal preference/experience.

Another benefit to running the 10067353 in your 72 is that it would carry the 3yr/100k mile warranty as opposed to the 2yr/50k mile warranty on the performance version.

If you are looking for a performance engine I would look at the 350HO or ZZ4, though the price is higher. If you want to wake up your existing engine (assuming its lower end is in ok shape) bolt on a set of 12558060 vortec heads, and a vortec Air-Gap intake from Edelbrock.