Thanks for the input, Dave

As I said earlier, I'm really interested in a rock solid cruiser. I want to build this car only once, and then be able to drive it anywhere, anytime, with no worries about reliability. I don't want this car to be an ongoing "project" once it's done. I've had LOTS of experience with hiem joints and they are fine in special high maintenance applications (read race cars) but I'm not a fan of them in a street application. I'm really seriously considering the Metric chassis but there are still a number of questions I need to resolve.

Ahh, funny you should bring up the Ford engine because I've also considered it as well. I looked at a Mustang II in the wrecking yard the other day with the idea of grabbing the front end and then noticed it had a 302 and a 4-speed! It is still there and I might yet just go buy the whole car. One of my absolute all time favorite engines is the 260-289-302 Ford. When I was a kid I owned a 641/2 Mustang with a 271 HP. All I can say is WOW!! What a car. We put all the Shelby suspension stuff on it as well as a set on Mondelo heads and a Sig Erson cam. It Hauled A**!! AND went around turns too!! We put the front brakes on the rear and then adapted Galaxie discs to the front and then it stopped as well!

My deal with the GM Gen III is opportunity (good price) and I think it would be fun to learn a little about the new computer/FI engines. I guess I'm not as much of a "purest" as some others. I like good stuff no matter who makes it. None the less, a small block Ford in this car is an attractive idea.

Thanks again

Mike