[RatRod68]

1st- Im not trying to tell you how to build anything, just putting my opinion out there

ok, now that is out of the way, lets get to work.

The LS1 is great, especially if you are wanting to go fast. If you are wanting a gen 3 motor in your old pickup, go with the 6.0 or 5.3. They are loads cheaper, and are stronger. They are an Iron block, so they are much heavier, but have better low end torque. You can even bore a 5.3 out to a 5.7 and probably still be cheaper than buying an LS1.

4.10's are pretty high for 37's IMO. I have 35's on my Ranger and am running 4.56's. A buddy of mine is running 40's with a LQ4(6.0)/4500/241 setup with 5.13's. I have 4.10's in my 71 with 35's. When i put the LQ4 in my Ranger, I will be going to 4.88's

I am putting the 4.8 and 4l60e in my 71. They are cheap and easy to come by. Still pushing around 300 HP, and with a couple mods and a tune, you're easily over 300. And your still getting rather good mileage.

If you are going to be wheeling the old truck, I'd go up to a 60. If its just going to be driven and maybe some light playing in the mud, i'd stick with the 44. 60's are the hot ticket item right now, so they are going for 700-1200 for old worn out complete setups.