Originally posted by Nash

Since my last posting, about 4,500 Went into the motor....not the estimated $1200 I thought.
If it's any comfort, you're not the first, nor will you be the last, to learn this lesson. Once you've done this, you see better why crate engines are a relative bargain, and how experience is paid for. I applaud your humility.

Engine compartment looks good, although it looks like your distributor is making a bid for freedom.

One way to make it look better is to get rid of the donkey dick radiator hose and get a smooth moulded one. Also, you should put the radiator overflow drain hose back on instead of the little blue cap. Better yet, install a surge tank so that the coolant that "burps" can thermosyphon back into the radiator when it cools.