More modern engine trans transfer?

[CG]

I don't know a thing about any of the more modern power plants that can be used for our 4x4's.

Right now mine has a tired 454. I really considered having my 427 rebuilt and installing that, serious fun factor lol. But lately there has been occasion where I would really like to hop in my truck and take a decent road trips (several hundred miles). Not what I had ever intended for it when I purchased it, but for some reason though this darn thing has really bitten me (maybe its the GMC grill lol) and I want make it super reliable and useful.

My no's ... no diesel. no manual trans. Just looking for some ideas that would make it a better all around truck. Go to the dump, hauling, maybe some towing. Or, there is something I just have to have in Southern California ... Road Trip!

Maybe all it would take is rebuild the engine, use one of those fuel injection carbs that seem to be popular, and some sort of overdrive trans.