Do you plan to use fuel injection (late LT1 or LT4 type) or a carb? FI will cost more but will give you a bit more power at the top, maybe 10% in fact, but a much wider power band and far superior driveability.

 

I'd like to keep it as simple(lol)as possible, but I'm wide open at this point. Any detailed suggestions?? I was thinking of a large dominator carb but they are pricey as well. how does FI compare price and power wise? FI might be too complicated for my simple mind,LOL

 

'how does FI compare price and power wise? FI might be too complicated for my simple mind,LOL '

I resemble that remark.

 

Kind of a fun problem to have! If the truck block is a one piece rear main unit it should take roller lifters with a minimum of work. BUT.........with that kind of money(2500) I would look around for awhile for a LS-? complete. Maybe still in the car so I could get EVERYTHING and know where it went. I too am old and injection challenged,that's why my '79 has a carb on the '93 LT1 motor. I have all the injection stuff including the computer and the loom but after a day of moving wires here,there and everywhere I ordered a manifold and Carb.
You're gonna have a rough time building a really good stroker motor(other than 383) for $2500 I think. So haunt the used parts places and be a little patient as you wait for the bargains.
GOOD LUCK!
Ron