running 55-57 small block

[jerry moss]

the 72 K5 blazer we picked up as a "parts truck" for my dads 71 K5 has a clean small block in it but after checking the code on the front of the block it shows an "F" code which according to my book is either a 55 or 56 car 265 or a 57 car 283, both with a 2bbl carb. i haven't dug into it enough to get the date code. i figure it may have value to someone restoring a 55-57 car but not sure what it might be worth in running condition. i know it's not a truck part but hoping you guys/gals might be able to to help put a value on it, any ideas? it also has older heads with no accessory holes and a 2bbl intake with the hole for the oil filler in front.

[special-K]

I would say at least as much as any other running 60s-70s 350, if not higher. Why? Like you said, the right motor for some of the most desirable original cars on the planet (or Task Master truck...Cameo), but in my mind, I would want one in a '50s hot rod over anything newer or an era-styled Advance Design or earlier Pickup/Panel/Suburban for cool factor. Personally, I think there us something neat about the gentler V8s that some may not get. You actually can grab a fistful of power from them if performance is what you are after. Till the next best thing came along, that is what dragsters had to work with and they did amazing things. I'll never be a contender for any track record or championship. But I do like to see what I can get out of what I have, especially an underdog. But what I would want one for is a cruiser. You don't need a ground pounder to cruise the boulevard, main st, hiway, or 2-lane through the country. I had a '61 Studebaker Champ with a 259 3spd o/d when I lived in Fortuna. What a teeny V8! But she purred on down 101 like a...well, champ . I want to build a mild cruiser '69 GMC SWB and a 265/283 would be a cool motor for that. Dual 2 1/4s out the back casting a mild pitch is exactly what I want.
I'm sorry, I forget. What ws the question?