[Dan in Pasadena]

I can't spell your name without going back and looking at it so il, just say, "Hi" and make a few recommendations.

If you want it to drop in with a s little work as possible why not find another 235 straight six? If you want V8 power, go with a crate 350. Even a Target motor from Pepe Boys or Autozone will be more powerful than the 283, way cheaper to buy than to machine a 283 (unless you're a machinist!) and will be NO more difficult to install tha the 283.

If the four speed was original to the truck I'm pretty sure the original rearend ratio is 4.11 or 4.56. Neither one will give you enjoyable highway cruising without screaming in your ear.