Ugh, hope that isn't the case with the pistons. I really appreciate all the info. As I read more into it, I may ship the entire engine up to my nephew and have him build me a 383 or 406 with a lower comp ratio, a lumpier cam, maybe some aluminum heads, etc. Something that's a little more modern under the surface but not new school. I don't need to have a rocket, but I do want something that holds it's own when I jump on it.

I sent you a PM.

Appreciate all the help. Right now pondering having my nephew who builds small block circle track engines build me a 383 stroker. He has most of the parts and I can use the top end of my current 302 so that may be the way to go. And honestly, I hate the way the 302 runs; you have to really wind it out to get moving and that's not what I like. Maybe if I was racing but it just isn't great for cruising. Thanks again.

OK, looked at the oil last night. Level was really low, but it didn't appear to be milky/mixed with coolant. I'm wondering if the piston rings went. Argh.