You are right about gas mileage, a friend of mine had one in a 1 ton panel truck and drove all over U.S. and he told me he was getting 20+ mpg. One of the things I like about the 472/500 is that all of the accessories are on top and compact. I think you can use the Eldaroda oil filter adapter if you have problem with clearance. Chassis Engineering has some trick motor mounts for swap and Speedway has some parts also.
I am still working for a living, but hope to have my '32 going in a few weeks and maybe make some of the local get togethers. They are having a cruise in Granbury this whole weekend (Sat.-Mon.) and I hope to spend some time there. Anyway we might can get together otherwise, so we'll keep in touch.
Jim