Opinions please

Yes Sir, I am keeping the 273 in it. I don’t have the tools OR the know how on swapping engines
I think you are going to need some help hooking up the linkage, setting the kickdown and all. You can buy all kinds of aftermarket cables and linkage, but you 2bbl linkage will work just fine. Think about the function and how to set things up. Last thing you need is the throttle to stick open, or your tranny to burn up because the kickdown is not adjusted.