New Guy - 1967 C10

[JasonV]

Hey Guys,

I am a new guy to the forum. I have a 1967 Chevy C10. This truck was garaged for 19 years after my Grandfather passed away...I mean really garaged...the key wasn't turned for 18 years! I recently got it running..replaced many parts...new cooling system, new brakes etc...

Here is my question...The motor is original...has just over 200k on it. It runs pretty good, but i figure it will eventually have to be replaced or rebuilt. So that is the question. I figure I have 3 options:

1) rebuild current 283. After a couple of phone calls, different shops have told me it may cost 4-5 grand to rebuild it depending on what it looks like when they dismantle it.

2) Buy a rebuilt 283. Saw a Remanufactured 283 online for about $1,200.

3) Buy a new 350 crate engine.

I kind of want to keep the truck original (stock) if i can. Gonna fix it up for a cool weekend driver / cruiser.

What kind of advice can you offer me as to the engine options...would the rebuilt 283 be as reliable as a new crate engine? Does the 4-5 grand seem high to have the current engine rebuilt? Would the original 3 on the tree transmission and drive train be able to handle the additional torque of a 350?

any advice would be appreciated, as this is my first journey into the classic truck world.

Thanks.