Check with your local parts stores for a re-man big block, I can get them around here and be in your price range. Maybe sell all the small block stuff that is good and add the money to the pool. Three small blocks in three years @ $1300 ea., would seem to me a big block would me much more cost efficient. Some wrecking yards will sell you a big block with a 30 day warranty for around $800 to $1,000.