[Mike C]

I have recently rebuilt an L36 427 because I had it and it has not been decked and is from a 69 Corvette. BUT, if I was to build a new motor from scratch (and I am considering this for a motor home) I would find a 454 and build a 496. The 427 rebuild was the same price as building a 496.

If it was a low mileage L29 I would probably consider running as-is since they have better compression and large oval port heads already. (Vortex 454 circa 96-2000) Maybe an RV type cam swap. And the headers. For the most part I don’t run headers but for specific goals you mention I think they are worthwhile.

As far as noise, Ceramic Coated small tube headers are fairly quiet. And it is ALWAYS worthwhile to add noise abatement and insulating materials to a 50 year old truck cab…