So basically, my dash project turned into:
New dash, new dash pad, new speedo cable and new light bulbs that were burned out.
The new crate 318 is in. OEM factory roller cam motor, bought new for $1200, and it comes with a 2 year, unlimited mileage warranty.
Lots of parts needed to be replaced. The alternator, waterpump, ignition, you name it. New plugs, wires, cap, rotor, MSD, motor mounts, 360 Ram 3 core radiator, belts, hoses, oil pan, and lots of miscellaneous crap.
Edelbrock 4bbl is on there. Its running rich, but none the less, runs quite strong for what it is. Edelbrock intake manifold dropped right on and saved what, 40lbs off the stock manifold?
I had to put a new exhaust system on it. It already had duals but no cats and 2 worn out mufflers. I put on 2 high flow cats and 2 OEM style mufflers from Advance Auto. It's quiet, just how I wanted it.
New paint went on. $900 later, minor body work was done and I think it looks nice. I need a headliner badly, but before that, I'm getting the A/C fixed. It's a sweatbox here during the day lately.
I will probably be selling the car at some point this year, if the right offer comes along. I have receipts for everything, but in the mean time, I'm gonna enjoy it.