gtpjoe, I just read through all the way. Honestly, being a Pontiac nut I shook my head several times, mostly at some of the input you're getting, lol. It looks like you do have a cool low buck score coming together and its on the right track. Theres a lot of knowledgeable 2nd gen guys around, but I wouldn't say here. No offense to anyone. Best of luck and that fresh upholstery looks great! The green one I linked is getting a full frame and modded LS7, BTW. It is still possible for a high dollar build, to buy a brand new aluminum Pontiac block. That allows having one's cake and eating it too. And OH MAN are they pretty!