I agree 1000%. If the flathead runs just do some maintenance items like hoses, belts, tune up, oil change, etc, make sure the brakes are working and then drive it for a while

If the engine is shot that is another matter, then the small block crate motor makes sense. I would use an adapter plate to mate it to the stock transmission which will save you having to change the rear end right now. I think Speedway carries the adapters and motor mounts for this swap.

A dropped axle and maybe some Posies springs and tube shocks and you are on the road. The one car I really regret selling in my lifetime was a 47 Ford Fordor sedan that had only 50,000 miles on it. I would love to have that one back.

Welcome to the forum by the way.

Don